Hong Kong-style egg waffles are a popular street food that combines a tender interior with a crisp, golden exterior. The unique texture is achieved by using a special waffle iron and a batter infused with custard powder and tapioca starch. The result is a delightful snack that's light, crispy, and slightly sweet.
For this recipe, take note of the custard powder and tapioca starch. Custard powder, a key ingredient in achieving the special flavour of Hong Kong-style egg waffles, is usually found in baking aisle of supermarkets. Tapioca starch, on the other hand, provides the waffles with their characteristically chewy texture. It's often located with other gluten-free flours or Asian ingredients.
Ingredients for Hong Kong-Style Egg Waffle
All purpose flour: This is a go-to flour for baking, providing structure to the waffles.
Baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent, allowing the waffles to rise and become fluffy.
Custard powder: Gives the waffles a distinct flavor and yellow color.
Tapioca starch: Adds a slight chewiness to the texture.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together while also adding to the taste.
Sugar: Balances the other flavors while adding sweetness.
Water: Thins the batter to the right consistency for the waffle iron.
Evaporated milk: Adds richness to the waffles.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile.
Vegetable oil: Ensures that the waffles don't stick to the iron and adds a slight crispness.
One reader, Dennet Swope says:
This Hong Kong-style egg waffle recipe is a game-changer! The waffles turned out crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The custard powder added a delightful flavor, and the waffles were a hit with my family. I can't wait to make them again!
Mastering the Techniques for Hong Kong-Style Egg Waffles
How to prepare the batter: Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl and set up a double boiler to mix the eggs and sugar until thickened. Then, add water, evaporated milk, and slowly incorporate the dry ingredients, followed by the vanilla and vegetable oil. Let the batter rest in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
How to cook the waffles: Preheat the egg waffle machine to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease it with oil. Pour the batter into the machine and cook for 2½ minutes until crispy and slightly brown. Use a rubber spatula to transfer the waffle to a wire rack to cool slightly, then shape it over a curved surface to cool. Repeat with the remaining batter.
How to serve: Enjoy the egg waffles when the shell has cooled and become crisp, but is still slightly warm.
How To Make Hong Kong-Style Egg Waffle
Treat your tastebuds with a fluffy and sweet Hong Kong-style egg waffle that’s made using tapioca starch, custard powder, and evaporated milk.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1cupall purpose flour,,plus 2 tbsp
- 2tspbaking powder
- 1tbspcustard powder
- 3tbsptapioca starch,plus 1½ tsp
- 2large eggs
- ½cupsugar,plus 3 tbsp
- ½cupwater,plus 2 tbsp
- 1tbspevaporated milk,plus 2¼ tsp
- 1tspvanilla extract
- 2tbspvegetable oil
- oil,for greasing waffle machine
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, custard powder, and tapioca starch. Set aside.
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Set up a double boiler over medium heat. Add the eggs and sugar to the top bowl, whisking vigorously for about 5 minutes until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture has thickened slightly.
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Add the water and evaporated milk to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
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Slowly add the dry ingredients to egg mixture and mix until well combined.
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Stir in the vanilla and vegetable oil.
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Pour the batter through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean bowl to catch any lumps.
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Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the batter rest in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight.
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Transfer the batter to a spouted liquid measuring cup for easy pouring.
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Set an egg waffle machine and set it to 400 degrees F. Grease lightly with oil. Add about 1 cup of batter to the machine and cook for 2½ minutes, until crispy and slightly brown.
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Using a rubber spatula, transfer the waffle to a wire rack to cool slightly. To achieve a round shape, lay the waffle over a curved surface, such as a rolling pin, to cool. Repeat with the remaining batter.
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Serve when the shell has cooled and become crisp but is still slightly warm. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 475.25kcal
- Fat: 16.03g
- Saturated Fat: 2.26g
- Trans Fat: 0.09g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9.73g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.13g
- Carbohydrates: 73.69g
- Fiber: 1.13g
- Sugar: 34.85g
- Protein: 9.15g
- Cholesterol: 130.46mg
- Sodium: 301.41mg
- Calcium: 272.41mg
- Potassium: 118.08mg
- Iron: 2.99mg
- Vitamin A: 59.62µg
- Vitamin C: 0.10mg
Expert Technique Tips for Perfect Hong Kong-Style Egg Waffles
When making your Hong Kong-style egg waffles, it's important to let the batter rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or even overnight if possible. This resting period allows the flour to fully hydrate and the gluten to relax, resulting in a waffle that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Additionally, using a double boiler to mix the eggs and sugar helps to dissolve the sugar completely, creating a smoother batter. Lastly, remember to strain the batter to remove any lumps for a more uniform texture.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Egg Waffles
Prepare the batter: To save time, prepare the batter the night before and let it rest in the refrigerator overnight. This will allow the flavors to develop and the batter to thicken, resulting in a better texture for the egg waffles.
Use a spouted measuring cup: Transferring the batter to a spouted liquid measuring cup makes it easier to pour into the waffle machine, saving time and minimizing mess.
Preheat the waffle machine: Preheating the waffle machine while the batter is resting will help speed up the cooking process once you're ready to make the egg waffles.
Batch cooking: Consider making a double batch of batter and cooking multiple egg waffles at once to save time and have extras for later.
Non-stick spray: Use non-stick spray or a pastry brush to grease the waffle machine, making it easier to remove the waffles and speeding up the cooking process.
Streamline the process: Set up a production line for pouring, cooking, and cooling the waffles to streamline the process and save time.
Invest in an egg waffle machine: Investing in a quality egg waffle machine can save time and ensure consistent results, especially if you plan to make egg waffles regularly.
Plan ahead: Plan your cooking process and have all the ingredients and equipment ready to go to minimize downtime and make the cooking process more efficient.
Substitute Ingredients For Hong Kong-Style Egg Waffle Recipe
all purpose flour - Substitute with cake flour: Cake flour has a lower protein content, resulting in a lighter and more tender texture, which is ideal for egg waffles.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: This combination can be used as a substitute for baking powder, providing the necessary leavening agent for the waffle batter.
custard powder - Substitute with vanilla pudding mix: Vanilla pudding mix can provide a similar creamy and vanilla flavor to the waffle batter.
tapioca starch - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can act as a thickening agent and help achieve the desired texture in the egg waffle batter.
large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs (for vegan option): Flax eggs can be used as a vegan alternative to provide binding and moisture to the batter.
sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural sweetener with a slightly caramel-like flavor, adding depth to the waffle batter.
evaporated milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can offer a rich and creamy texture, enhancing the flavor profile of the egg waffles.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can provide a delightful nutty flavor, complementing the sweetness of the waffles.
vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a subtle tropical aroma and flavor to the egg waffles, enhancing their overall taste.
oil - Substitute with melted butter: Melted butter can be used to grease the waffle iron and impart a rich, buttery flavor to the egg waffles.
Perfecting the Presentation of Hong Kong-Style Egg Waffles
Elevate the egg waffle with a unique twist: Impress the judges by infusing the egg waffle with a surprising element, such as a hint of matcha or a touch of black sesame for a modern and unexpected flavor profile.
Artistic plating: Showcase the egg waffle in an artistic and visually stunning manner, using delicate edible flowers and a drizzle of condensed milk to create an elegant and sophisticated presentation.
Incorporate texture contrast: Add a textural element to the dish by serving the egg waffle alongside a scoop of creamy ice cream and a sprinkling of crunchy almond praline, creating a delightful contrast in every bite.
Play with color: Introduce vibrant colors to the plate by pairing the egg waffle with a medley of fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream, creating a visually appealing and appetizing dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace minimalism by strategically using negative space on the plate, allowing the egg waffle to be the focal point while maintaining a sense of elegance and sophistication.
Add a touch of elegance with gold leaf: Elevate the egg waffle by delicately adorning it with shimmering gold leaf, adding a luxurious and opulent touch to the presentation.
Create a harmonious composition: Arrange the egg waffle alongside a quenelle of mango sorbet and a drizzle of passion fruit coulis, creating a visually balanced and harmonious composition on the plate.
Incorporate Asian-inspired elements: Pay homage to the dish's Hong Kong roots by incorporating traditional red bean paste or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, adding an authentic touch to the presentation.
Essential Tools for Crafting Authentic Egg Waffles
Mixing bowl: A large, sturdy bowl used for combining ingredients and mixing batters or doughs.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for whipping and mixing ingredients together, often used for incorporating air into the mixture.
Sifter: A device used to aerate and remove lumps from dry ingredients such as flour and cocoa powder.
Double boiler: A set of two pans designed to allow gentle, indirect heating for delicate ingredients such as chocolate or custards.
Fine-mesh strainer: A kitchen tool with a fine mesh used to strain and remove any lumps or impurities from the batter.
Spouted liquid measuring cup: A measuring cup with a spout for easy pouring of liquids.
Egg waffle machine: A specialized appliance designed to cook egg waffles, typically with a honeycomb pattern.
Storing and Freezing Hong Kong-Style Egg Waffles
Allow the egg waffles to cool completely before storing them. This will help prevent them from becoming soggy or losing their crispy texture.
Once cooled, place the egg waffles in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. If stacking the waffles, place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together.
Store the egg waffles at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
If you want to keep the egg waffles fresh for a longer period, you can freeze them:
- Wrap each egg waffle individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Place the wrapped egg waffles in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, labeling it with the date of freezing.
- Freeze the egg waffles for up to 1-2 months.
To reheat frozen egg waffles:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the egg waffles from the freezer and unwrap them.
- Place the egg waffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the egg waffles in a toaster oven or air fryer for a quicker option.
If you find that the egg waffles have lost some of their crispiness after storing or freezing, you can refresh them by placing them in a preheated oven or toaster oven for a few minutes before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Egg Waffles
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover egg waffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and heated through. This method helps to restore the crispiness of the exterior while gently warming the interior.
For a quicker option, use a toaster oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place the egg waffles directly on the rack. Toast for 3-5 minutes, or until crispy and heated through. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
If you prefer a softer texture, wrap the egg waffles loosely in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes. The foil will help to trap moisture, resulting in a softer, more pliable waffle.
For a crispy exterior and a soft interior, use a panini press or waffle iron. Preheat the appliance and lightly grease the plates with cooking spray. Place the egg waffles inside and press down gently. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
If you're in a hurry, the microwave can be used as a last resort. Place the egg waffles on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 15-20 seconds. Be aware that this method may result in a softer, less crispy texture.
Is Making Egg Waffles at Home Cost-Effective?
This hong kong-style egg waffle recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like flour, eggs, and sugar are commonly found in most kitchens. The addition of custard powder and tapioca starch may require a one-time purchase, but they can be used in various other recipes. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10. It offers a delightful and unique treat that can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert, making it a worthwhile and budget-friendly option for households.
Is This Egg Waffle Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Hong Kong-style egg waffle recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe contains refined flour and sugar, which are high in calories but low in nutrients.
- The use of evaporated milk and vegetable oil adds saturated and trans fats to the dish.
- The cooking method involves deep frying, which can increase the overall fat content of the waffles.
- The recipe lacks any significant sources of fiber, vitamins, or minerals, making it a treat rather than a nutritious meal.
However, there are ways to make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content.
- Reduce the amount of sugar used or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
- Use low-fat or skim milk instead of evaporated milk to cut down on saturated fats.
- Opt for a healthier oil, such as coconut or avocado oil, which are rich in beneficial fats.
- Add some fresh fruit or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Instead of deep frying, try using a waffle iron or baking the waffles in the oven to reduce the oil content.
Editor's Take on the Iconic Hong Kong-Style Egg Waffle Recipe
The Hong Kong-style egg waffle recipe is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors. The combination of custard powder and tapioca starch adds a unique dimension to the waffle, while the double boiler technique creates a rich and creamy batter. Allowing the batter to rest enhances the flavors, resulting in a crispy yet tender waffle with a hint of sweetness. The final touch of serving the waffle warm ensures a delightful experience for the senses. This recipe is a wonderful way to experience the beloved Hong Kong street food in the comfort of your own home.
Enhance Your Hong Kong-Style Egg Waffle Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delightful Alternatives to Hong Kong-Style Egg Waffles
Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Egg Waffles
Why trust this Hong Kong-Style Egg Waffle Recipe:
This recipe for Hong Kong-style egg waffles has been carefully crafted to ensure a delightful texture and flavor. The combination of custard powder and tapioca starch adds a unique and authentic touch, while the use of evaporated milk and vanilla extract enhances the richness of the batter. The meticulous steps, such as resting the batter and using a fine-mesh strainer, guarantee a smooth and consistent mixture. With attention to detail and quality ingredients like all purpose flour and vegetable oil, this recipe promises to deliver the traditional taste and crispiness that users can trust and enjoy.
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