Ingredients for Eggs with Dream Leaf
– 1 bunch of young dream leaves (tam the)
– 6 chicken eggs
– Seasonings: Fish sauce, salt, MSG, cooking oil, and banana leaves (optional)
How to Make Delicious Eggs with Dream Leaf
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Choose young and tender dream leaves with fine white hair. This ensures a soft and fragrant dish. Avoid larger or coarse leaves as they may make the dish dry and tough. Remove the tough stems, wash the leaves thoroughly, and pat them dry. You can either chop the leaves finely with a knife or crush them in a mortar and pestle, depending on your preference.
Step 2: Marinate the Eggs
In a large bowl, add the chopped or crushed dream leaves. Crack in the eggs, adjusting the quantity according to your preference. Season with 1 teaspoon of fish sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of MSG or seasoning powder. Whisk everything together until well combined and the seasonings are dissolved.
Step 3: Cook the Eggs
Traditionally, this dish is cooked by spreading the egg mixture evenly on banana leaves, wrapping it up in multiple layers, and grilling it over a charcoal stove or in a cast iron pan. If banana leaves are not available, you can simply fry the eggs with a little cooking oil.
Note: If you prefer a fluffier texture, add a small amount of water while beating the eggs and mixing in the dream leaves.
Dishes like eggs with dream leaf, eggs with artemisia, or eggs with bi leaves, grilled on banana leaves, evoke nostalgic flavors and remind many of their childhood.
In some regions, they add a unique twist by including some chopped scallions while crushing the dream leaves. This mixture is then combined with the eggs and seasonings before being grilled on banana leaves, resulting in a delightful and unexpected flavor.
Step 4: Serve
Once the eggs are cooked, cut them into bite-sized pieces and serve them on a plate. Enjoy this delicious and aromatic dish with your loved ones.