How to Make Century Egg Salad (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Century Egg, known locally as 'pei dan', is a beloved and iconic delicacy featured in many Singaporean kopitiams and hawker stalls. This unique preserved egg, with its creamy, translucent black and jade hues, brings a bold umami flavor that is both memorable and nutritious. While often enjoyed as part of congee or rice porridge, our healthy version transforms Century Egg into a refreshing salad, inspired by the fusion influences found throughout Singapore’s vibrant food culture. In Singapore, Century Egg Salad is a popular lunch option, especially among those seeking a lighter yet satisfying meal. The combination of silky eggs, crunchy cucumbers, tangy pickled ginger, and a savoury sesame dressing showcases the city’s flair for blending traditional East Asian elements with local tastes. Served chilled and garnished with fresh herbs, this dish represents the rich multicultural tapestry of Singaporean cuisine, making it a go-to lunch in both modern cafes and traditional kopitiams.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Peel the Century Eggs carefully and cut each into quarters
Peel the Century Eggs carefully and cut each into quarters. Set aside.
Step 2 · Prepare the Japanese cucumber by washing and slicing thinly
Prepare the Japanese cucumber by washing and slicing thinly. Pat dry with a paper towel.
Step 3 · Cube the silken tofu gently and arrange on a serving plate as the base
Cube the silken tofu gently and arrange on a serving plate as the base.
Step 4 · Arrange sliced cucumber and pickled ginger over the tofu
Arrange sliced cucumber and pickled ginger over the tofu. Place Century Egg wedges on top.
Step 5 · Drizzle sesame oil and light soy sauce evenly over the salad
Drizzle sesame oil and light soy sauce evenly over the salad. Sprinkle with white pepper if desired.
Step 6 · Garnish with chopped spring onion
Garnish with chopped spring onion, coriander leaves, and roasted sesame seeds.
Step 7 · Serve chilled or at room temperature
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy as a light lunch or side dish.
Why this recipe is healthy
This healthy Singaporean Century Egg Salad relies on fresh vegetables, tofu, and minimal oil, avoiding deep frying or heavy sauces. The combination of protein, healthy fats, and fiber helps keep you full longer without spiking your calorie count. Using low-sodium soy sauce and plenty of fresh herbs makes it heart-friendly and suitable for a variety of diets. It's a great option for those seeking a light, nutritious lunch with authentic local flavors.
A note on tradition
Century Egg Salad reflects Singapore's hawker culture and penchant for fusion cuisine, often seen in modern kopitiams that blend traditional flavors with healthier preparations. While century eggs are a classic ingredient in Teochew and Cantonese communities, Singapore’s multicultural food scene has made this dish popular across the island. It’s typically enjoyed as a light lunch or shared side, especially in the humid climate, offering a refreshing alternative to heavier fare.