Chawanmushi

Chawanmushi is a delightful savory egg custard dish from Japan that stands apart from the sweet custards you might be familiar with. Far from being a dessert, it is enjoyed as part of a meal. The base of chawanmushi consists of a smooth mixture of eggs, soy sauce, dashi (a Japanese soup stock), and mirin (a sweet rice wine).

What truly distinguishes chawanmushi are the various ingredients incorporated into it, such as shiitake mushrooms, fish cake (kamaboko), lily bulb (yuri-ne), ginkgo nuts, and boiled shrimp. These ingredients are mixed into the custard and then steamed in small, tea-cup-like containers.

If you are familiar with Chinese steamed eggs, chawanmushi bears some similarity but features a distinct Japanese twist thanks to its unique toppings. Its silky texture makes it best enjoyed with a spoon rather than chopsticks.

Chawanmushi can be served either hot or cold, depending on your preference. Adding udon noodles transforms it into a dish known as odamaki mushi or odamaki udon. Whether savored as a comforting warm dish or a refreshing cold treat, chawanmushi is a versatile and delicious component of Japanese cuisine.