Vegetarian broken rice with egg loaf is a hearty and satisfying dish that beautifully combines flavors and textures. The broken rice, known for its unique shape and chewy consistency, serves as a base for this wholesome meal. Topped with a savory egg loaf, made from eggs mixed with vegetables and spices, it adds a rich, fluffy element to the dish. The egg loaf is often seasoned with ingredients like garlic, scallions, and soy sauce, enhancing its flavor and making it a perfect complement to the rice. This dish is typically garnished with fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and a drizzle of soy sauce or chili sauce, adding layers of taste and color. Vegetarian broken rice with egg loaf is a comforting and nutritious option, ideal for lunch or dinner, showcasing the versatility of simple ingredients in creating a delicious meal. Do you know:
1. Broken rice: Broken rice is a type of rice that consists of grains fractured during the milling process. It is often less expensive than whole grains and cooks faster, resulting in a soft, tender texture. Nutritionally, broken rice contains carbohydrates that provide energy, along with some protein and fiber. It is commonly used in various cuisines, especially in Southeast Asian dishes, where it serves as a base for stir-fries, curries, and rice bowls. Its ability to absorb flavors makes it a versatile ingredient, pairing well with meats, vegetables, and sauces.
2. Vegetarian egg loaf: Vegetarian egg loaf is a plant-based dish made with firm tofu, which provides a protein-rich base and a smooth texture. The addition of wood ear mushrooms adds a unique texture and earthy flavor. Glass noodles, when kept dry, help bind the loaf together while maintaining firmness, and finely chopped taro contributes a slightly sweet, starchy element. Minced garlic and shallots enhance the overall flavor, while eggs provide richness and help hold the ingredients together. This loaf can be sliced and served as a main dish or a hearty side, offering a nutritious and satisfying option for vegetarians.
3. Pickled vegetables: Pickled vegetables are a tangy and flavorful accompaniment made by preserving vegetables in a vinegar-based brine. Commonly used in various cuisines, pickled vegetables can include cucumbers, carrots, radishes, and more, offering a crunchy texture and vibrant flavor. They provide probiotics, which support gut health, and are low in calories while adding a burst of flavor to dishes. Pickled vegetables are often used as a condiment in rice bowls, sandwiches, or as a side dish, complementing rich or savory meals with their acidity and brightness.
4. Fish sauce: Fish sauce is a staple condiment in many Southeast Asian cuisines, made by fermenting fish, typically anchovies, with salt. It has a strong, salty, umami flavor that enhances the taste of dishes, providing depth and richness. Fish sauce is low in calories but high in essential nutrients, such as amino acids. It is commonly used in marinades, dipping sauces, and dressings, adding a savory punch to stir-fries, salads, and soups. While it should be used in moderation due to its salt content, fish sauce is a key ingredient that elevates the flavor of many traditional recipes.
Weightwatchers (Opt for losing weight): To make Vegetarian Broken Rice with Egg Loaf more weight-loss-friendly, use a smaller amount of firm tofu or substitute it with a lighter protein option like edamame for lower fat content. Consider reducing the quantity of salted egg yolks and replacing them with a lower-calorie alternative like egg whites to maintain protein while cutting calories. Limit or omit sugar in the pickled vegetables, using just vinegar to enhance flavor. For the broken rice, consider using a smaller portion or substituting half with cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrates. Omit pork cracklings in the scallion oil for a fully vegetarian option, and adjust the fish sauce mix by reducing sugar and salt for a healthier seasoning. This way, you keep the dish flavorful and satisfying while making it lighter.
Nguyên liệu
Ingredients for the egg loaf:
Firm tofu, crumbled
Wood ear mushrooms, soaked until soft, finely chopped
Glass noodles, cut into small pieces (I keep them dry without soaking to make the loaf firmer, with less moisture)
Taro, finely chopped
Minced garlic and shallots
Salted egg yolks (I use cooked ones for easy storage, but fresh salted egg yolks are fine)
For every 1 tablespoon of sugar, add 1 tablespoon of vinegar (adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar based on the quantity of carrots)
Mix everything together and let it sit for at least 30 minutes
Ingredients for broken rice:
Freshly cooked broken rice
Scallion oil (I forgot, so I added pork cracklings to the scallion oil, omit if vegetarian)
Sliced tomatoes
Sliced cucumber
Fish sauce:
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
Minced fresh chili
1 teaspoon soy sauce for coloring
Juice of half a lime
Stir everything together and season to taste.
Cách làm
Sauté minced garlic and shallots until fragrant, then add the crumbled tofu, season with salt and sugar. This method makes the tofu resemble “fake meat.”
Add the tofu and the remaining ingredients for the egg loaf and mix well.
Steam until cooked. Be sure to cover the egg loaf bowl to prevent water droplets from dripping onto the loaf, which would make it soggy.
When the egg loaf is cooked, poke it with a toothpick. If no liquid comes out and the egg has a slightly yellow color, it means it’s done.
Brush egg yolk on top and steam for an additional 2 minutes.
Take it out and let it cool completely before slicing.
Place the egg loaf on the rice, add scallion oil, carrot, cucumber, and tomato on top. Serve with fish sauce.