Easy Fluffy Korean Egg Custard

Discovering Gyeran Jjim

My Favorite is Fluffy Korean Egg Custard and I still remember the first time I had Gyeran Jjim, or Korean steamed eggs. It was at a small restaurant in Seoul, tucked away in a quiet alley. I wasn’t sure what to expect when the bowl of fluffy, jiggly eggs arrived at my table, gently steaming and sprinkled with green onions. The first bite was like a warm hug—soft, savory, and so comforting. I immediately knew I had to learn how to make this dish at home. It became one of those recipes I couldn’t wait to share with my family and friends.

Learning to Perfect the Texture

When I first tried making it myself, I thought it would be simple. After all, it’s just eggs, broth, and a few seasonings, right? But getting the perfect texture, that silky smoothness, took some practice. I learned that whisking the eggs well and cooking them slowly over low heat made all the difference. Covering the pot tightly with a lid was another trick I picked up to trap the steam, which helps the eggs cook evenly without drying out. Once I nailed the technique, the dish became a go-to for quick meals.

Adding My Own Twist

As I became more confident with the recipe, I started experimenting with different flavors. I loved how versatile Gyeran Jjim could be. Sometimes, I’d add a dash of sesame oil for a nutty kick, or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. When I was feeling creative, I’d even mix in diced vegetables like mushrooms or carrots, giving the dish extra texture and flavor. It’s a dish that feels special, but it’s so easy to customize based on what you have on hand.

Sharing the Comfort

Now, Gyeran Jjim has become a regular dish in my kitchen. It’s one of those recipes I love to share, especially when someone is looking for something light but satisfying. Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, or a side dish with dinner, this fluffy egg custard never disappoints. It’s amazing how something so simple can bring so much comfort and joy. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of that first bite in Seoul, and I’m grateful that I can bring a little piece of that experience into my home.

Chef’s Notes-Fluffy Korean Egg Custard

• Be sure to whisk the eggs until they are fully smooth and uniform in color. This helps achieve the desired fluffy texture.
• The key to perfectly steamed eggs is gentle heat. Make sure to keep the heat on medium to avoid overcooking or curdling.
• When mixing the dashi broth with the eggs, stir constantly to ensure an even texture throughout. This step is critical to avoid separating layers in the custard.
• Use a tight-fitting lid while steaming to trap in as much steam as possible. This allows the eggs to cook evenly and remain moist.
• Once the eggs are just set, remove from heat to prevent a rubbery texture. Steamed eggs should be silky and soft.
• Chopped green onions add freshness, but you can experiment with other toppings like toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavor.
• If you’re out of dashi, chicken or vegetable broth will work, but keep in mind that dashi brings a unique umami flavor. Fish sauce also enhances the depth of the dish.
• If you want a silkier finish, you can pass the egg mixture through a fine mesh sieve before steaming.

Fluffy Korean Egg Custard

Recipe by Kimmy

Course: Breakfast, Main Course, Side DishCuisine: KoreanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories

180

kcal

Total time

20

minutes

Discover the secret to perfectly fluffy and savory Korean Steamed Eggs with this quick and easy recipe. Inspired by traditional Gyeran Jjim, this delightful dish combines simple ingredients to create a comforting side that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re a breakfast enthusiast or looking for a light dinner option, these steamed eggs are sure to become your new favorite. Join the ranks of celebrity chefs who rave about this umami-packed delight, and bring authentic Korean flavors to your kitchen in just minutes!

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs

• 1 cup prepared dashi broth substitute with chicken or vegetable stock if desired

• 1 tbsp soy sauce or fish sauce for depth

• 2 green onions finely chopped

Directions

• Prepare Ingredients – Begin by gathering all necessary ingredients. Crack the eggs into a mixing bowl and whisk them thoroughly until smooth. Finely chop the green onions and set aside for garnishing.
• Combine Liquids – In a separate bowl, combine the dashi broth with soy sauce (or fish sauce). Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the broth.
• Steam the Egg Mixture – Transfer the egg and broth mixture into a heat-proof, non-stick pot or casserole dish. Place the pot over medium heat and cover with a lid. Allow the eggs to steam for approximately 15 minutes, or until they set firmly.
• Garnish and Serve – Once cooked, remove the steamed eggs from heat and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with the chopped green onions and serve warm alongside steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.

Equipment

• casserole dish

Notes

• To achieve the perfect fluffy texture, ensure that you steam the eggs gently over medium heat and avoid overcooking. Using a well-sealed lid will help retain steam and cook the eggs evenly. For added flavor, consider incorporating a dash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This steamed egg dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, kimchi, or grilled meats, making it a versatile addition to any meal. For a richer taste, you can also add diced vegetables like carrots or mushrooms. Experiment with different garnishes to personalize the dish to your liking.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 180kcal
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 210mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Potassium: 150mg
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g
• Vitamin A: 6IU
• Vitamin C: 4mg
• Calcium: 50mg
• Iron: 1mg

FAQ- Fluffy Korean Egg Custard

What makes Korean Steamed Eggs so fluffy?

The fluffiness comes from thoroughly whisking the eggs and gently steaming them at a low, steady heat. Trapping steam in the pot helps to create a soft, airy texture.

Can I use a microwave to make Gyeran Jjim?

Yes, you can. Place the egg mixture in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and microwave on medium heat for 3-4 minutes. Check for doneness and microwave in additional 30-second increments if necessary.

Can I substitute dashi broth with something else?

Yes, chicken or vegetable broth works well as a substitute, though dashi adds a unique umami flavor. You can also use water in a pinch, but the flavor might not be as rich.

How do I prevent the eggs from being overcooked?

Cook the eggs on medium heat and remove them from the heat source as soon as they are set. Overcooking leads to a rubbery texture. Keep a close eye after the 10-minute mark.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, for a vegan option, substitute the eggs with silken tofu blended until smooth. Use vegetable broth and soy sauce instead of fish sauce to maintain the dish’s savory flavor.