When it comes to controversial foods, century eggs often spark mixed reactions. Many claim they’re unhealthy, yet they’re always the first dish to disappear at the table. With their deep amber-colored, jelly-like egg whites, marbled patterns, and creamy yolks, century eggs are a true paradox—a so-called villain that seduces with every bite. Whether served on silky tofu, smashed with spicy chilies, or tucked into wontons, century egg recipes showcase their rich umami flavor in irresistible ways.
For those with a Chinese palate, century eggs are simply irresistible, especially during the summer when their translucent appearance makes them even more appetizing. Whether paired with tofu, smashed with chili, or stuffed into dumplings, century eggs remain a staple in Chinese cuisine.
Today, let’s explore three classic and refreshing century egg recipes that are effortless yet bursting with flavor! 
Three Must-Try Century Egg Dishes
1. Smashed Century Egg with Charred Green Chilies
A bold, smoky dish that brings out the umami depth of century eggs combined with the fragrance of roasted green chilies.
Ingredients:
- 2 century eggs, chopped
- 3-4 green chilies (line chilies work best)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- ½ tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp black vinegar
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions:
1、Wash and remove the stems from the green chilies. Pan-fry over medium heat until blistered and softened. Let cool, then peel off the skins.
2、Place the chilies and chopped century eggs into a mortar. Add the garlic, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and salt.
3、Smash and mix everything using a pestle (or the back of a spoon) until well combined.
4、Serve with steamed rice or stuffed into flatbreads for a smoky, spicy treat!
2. Century Egg Tofu
This is the ultimate no-cook summer dish—silken tofu meets the rich flavor of century eggs, all tied together with a tangy soy dressing.
Ingredients:
- 1 block of silken tofu
- 2 century eggs, chopped
- 3 red chili peppers, sliced
- 3 scallions, finely chopped
- 4 sprigs of cilantro, chopped
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp light soy sauce
- 2 tbsp black vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- ¼ tsp sugar
Instructions:
1、Prepare the tofu: Place the tofu block upside-down on a plate. Cut off the four corners of the packaging, then carefully remove the plastic wrap.
2、Assemble: Cut the century eggs into bite-sized pieces and place them on top of the tofu. Sprinkle with chili, scallions, and cilantro.
3、Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar.
4、Serve: Pour the sauce over the tofu and century eggs. Enjoy chilled!
3. Century Egg & Pork Wontons
This dish takes century eggs to the next level by incorporating them into juicy, flavorful pork wontons served in a rich, spicy broth.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 2 century eggs, mashed
- 500g ground pork
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp scallion-ginger water
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 dashes white pepper
- ¼ tsp sugar
- 1 egg
For the Wonton Wrappers:
- 1 pack of wonton skins
For the Spicy Soup Base:
- 1 tbsp scallions, chopped
- 1 tbsp chili flakes
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 20ml hot oil (120°C)
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp black vinegar
- 5 pieces seaweed
- ½ tsp sugar
- 300ml boiling water
Instructions:
1、Prepare the filling: Mash the century eggs and mix them into the ground pork with all seasoning ingredients. Stir until well combined.
2、Wrap the wontons: Roll out the wonton wrappers slightly to make them thinner. Place a small spoonful of filling in the center, fold diagonally, and pinch the edges to seal.
3、Boil the wontons: Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the wontons and cook for about 2 minutes until they float.
4、Make the soup: In a serving bowl, combine scallions, chili flakes, garlic, and sesame seeds. Pour hot oil over them to release the aroma. Then add soy sauce, vinegar, seaweed, sugar, and boiling water.
5、Assemble: Add the cooked wontons to the soup and serve hot!
Final Thoughts: Century Eggs—A Love It or Hate It Food
Despite their polarizing reputation, century eggs have an undeniable charm. Their bold flavors, creamy yolks, and silky textures make them a favorite in countless Chinese dishes. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious first-timer, these three recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy them.
So, are you team century egg or not? Have you ever tried these recipes? Let’s chat in the comments!
