Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Asian cuisine right to your table. This recipe combines fluffy eggs with fresh vegetables and proteins for a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive addition to your brunch spread, Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young offers versatility and taste that will please everyone.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Egg Mixture
- For the Gravy
- Garnishes
- How to Make Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young
- Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- Step 2: Heat the Pan
- Step 3: Cook the Patties
- Step 4: Make the Gravy
- Step 5: Serve
- How to Serve Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young
- As a Main Dish
- With Sauce
- For Breakfast
- How to Perfect Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young
- Best Side Dishes for Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young
- Reheating Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I customize my Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young?
- What is the best way to serve Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young?
- How can I make Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young healthier?
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
- What is the difference between Egg Foo Young and an omelet?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Preparing Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young takes only 35 minutes—perfect for busy nights.
- Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh ingredients creates a deliciously rich flavor.
- Customizable: You can easily switch out the protein with shrimp, chicken, beef, or even tofu to suit your preferences.
- Healthy: Packed with vegetables like bean sprouts and carrots, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Great Leftovers: Enjoy it as a light lunch or snack the next day—Egg Foo Young tastes great reheated!
Tools and Preparation
To make Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick frying pan: Ensures easy flipping of the egg patties without sticking.
- Mixing bowl: Allows for thorough mixing of ingredients, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Spatula: Perfect for flipping the patties while cooking without breaking them.
Ingredients
For the Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- ½ cup cooked shrimp (diced or use beef, chicken, or tofu)
- ¼ cup thinly sliced mushrooms (shiitake or white button)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon white pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for binding)
For the Gravy
- 1½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Garnishes
- Fresh chopped scallions
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Chili oil for a kick
How to Make Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs with soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper, and salt. Stir in the bean sprouts, shredded carrots, chopped green onions, cooked shrimp (or chosen protein), and mushrooms. Finally, mix in all-purpose flour until everything is well combined.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add enough neutral oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Using a ladle, pour about one-third cup of the egg mixture into the hot pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown. Carefully flip using a spatula and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side. Remove from the pan and keep warm while repeating with remaining mixture.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine chicken or vegetable broth with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Bring to a simmer. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Gradually add this to the simmering broth while stirring continuously until thickened.
Step 5: Serve
Serve your Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young hot drizzled with gravy. Top with fresh scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and chili oil if desired for some extra flavor! Enjoy!
How to Serve Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young
Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in several delightful ways. Whether you prefer it as a main course or a side, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.
As a Main Dish
- Serve with steamed rice – The fluffy texture of the rice complements the flavors of the egg foo young perfectly.
- Pair with noodle dishes – Consider serving alongside chow mein or lo mein for a satisfying combination.
With Sauce
- Drizzle with Chinese brown gravy – This savory sauce enhances the overall flavor and adds moisture to each bite.
- Opt for soy sauce – A simple splash of soy sauce brings out the umami taste of the ingredients.
For Breakfast
- Enjoy as a hearty breakfast – Egg foo young makes for an excellent protein-packed start to your day.
- Serve with toast – A slice of buttered toast adds crunch and balances the softness of the omelet.

How to Perfect Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young
To achieve the best version of Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young, keep these essential tips in mind. They will help you create a restaurant-quality dish right at home.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and proteins enhance flavor and texture, making your dish more enjoyable.
- Whisk eggs thoroughly – Ensuring that eggs are well-beaten creates a fluffier omelet that holds together better during cooking.
- Heat the oil properly – Make sure the oil is hot before adding the mixture to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – Frying in batches ensures even cooking and prevents steaming, which can make egg foo young soggy.
- Experiment with fillings – Feel free to mix different proteins like chicken or tofu for personalized flavors and textures.
- Garnish generously – Adding scallions and sesame seeds on top not only enhances presentation but also boosts flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young
Pairing side dishes with Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Fried Rice – A classic choice, fried rice complements egg foo young beautifully and adds an extra dimension of flavor.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry – Colorful veggies stir-fried in soy sauce provide freshness and crunch that balances the richness of the egg dish.
- Spring Rolls – Crisp spring rolls filled with vegetables make for a delightful appetizer or side, adding variety to your plate.
- Hot and Sour Soup – This warming soup enhances your meal with its bold flavors, making it a comforting addition.
- Chow Mein – Noodles stir-fried with vegetables are filling and pair well with egg foo young for a hearty meal.
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy option that adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young from good to great.
- Skipping the binding agent: Not adding enough flour can result in a loose mixture. Make sure to include 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour for better texture.
- Overcooking the eggs: Cooking too long makes the egg foo young dry. Aim for a golden brown on each side, typically around 2-3 minutes.
- Using old ingredients: Fresh vegetables and proteins make a big difference. Always check the freshness of your bean sprouts, shrimp, or any protein used.
- Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoned egg foo young lacks flavor. Use soy sauce and white pepper generously for a tasty dish.
- Not controlling the oil temperature: Too hot or too cold oil affects cooking. Maintain medium heat for even frying and prevent burning.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young in airtight containers.
- It lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young
- For longer storage, freeze cooked egg foo young.
- Wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in freezer bags.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place egg foo young on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Cover with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in.
- Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil and reheat each piece for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries regarding Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young.
Can I customize my Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young?
Yes! You can add various proteins like chicken, beef, or tofu. Feel free to mix in different vegetables based on what you have at home.
What is the best way to serve Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young?
Serve it with rice or noodles, drizzled with soy sauce or oyster sauce for extra flavor.
How can I make Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young healthier?
You can use less oil for frying or incorporate more vegetables into the mixture for added nutrition.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit any meat and substitute with additional vegetables or tofu.
What is the difference between Egg Foo Young and an omelet?
Egg Foo Young is thicker and often has fillings like vegetables and meats mixed into the eggs, while an omelet is typically just eggs folded around fillings.
Final Thoughts
Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young is not only delicious but also highly customizable. It serves as an excellent main course or side dish suitable for any meal. Experiment with different ingredients based on your preferences, and enjoy this versatile recipe at home!
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Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chinese-Style Egg Foo Young is a delightful fusion of fluffy eggs, vibrant vegetables, and your choice of protein, making this dish a versatile option for any meal. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressive brunch gatherings, the rich flavors of soy sauce and sesame oil elevate the taste while offering a nutritious blend of ingredients. This recipe is not only easy to customize but also delicious when served with savory gravy, making it a family favorite that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- ½ cup cooked shrimp (or chicken, beef, or tofu)
- ¼ cup thinly sliced mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1½ cups broth (chicken or vegetable)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for gravy)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper, and salt. Stir in the vegetables and protein along with flour until well combined.
- Heat a non-stick frying pan with oil over medium heat. Pour about one-third cup of the egg mixture into the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Remove from the pan and keep warm. Repeat with remaining mixture.
- To make gravy, simmer broth with soy sauce and oyster sauce in a saucepan. Add cornstarch slurry to thicken.
- Serve Egg Foo Young hot with gravy drizzled on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty (90g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 210mg





