A creative twist to the traditional Vietnamese dish of fried eggs with scallions is to substitute the scallions with chives. This alternative not only adds a unique flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish.
Benefits of frying eggs with chives
Chives are a well-known vegetable in Vietnam, with their small, flat, and long green leaves growing to an average height of 20-40 cm. They have a warm nature and a mild spicy taste. Chives are packed with vitamins and minerals beneficial to the human body, promoting overall health. One of the most prominent vitamins in chives is vitamin A, known for its skin-enhancing and vision-improving properties. Consuming chives also helps warm the lungs, providing protection against flu.

The high fiber content in chives plays a crucial role in supporting digestion, ensuring smooth bowel movements, and preventing constipation and colorectal cancer. Chives are also effective in preventing and treating osteoporosis. Additionally, they promote blood circulation and aid in detoxification, with their sulfide content benefiting the liver. Notably, chives contain alliums, compounds known for their cancer-fighting properties. Research involving 285 women indicates that the consumption of alliaceae vegetables, specifically chives, may help prevent the development of breast cancer.
In the belief of Asian cultures, consuming chives during winter is considered highly beneficial for health, as it helps prevent a deficiency in yang energy, boosts physical strength, and wards off illnesses.
Precautions when consuming chives
Despite the numerous health benefits of chives, it is important to consider the following precautions to avoid any potential harm:
+ It is advisable to consume only 100-200 grams of chives per meal to prevent digestive issues such as bloating or, in more severe cases, diarrhea caused by excessive chive intake.
+ Chives may not be suitable for individuals with certain conditions, including yin deficiency with excess yang (characterized by night sweats, dry mouth without thirst, flushed cheeks, restlessness, etc.), sores, allergies, or eye-related ailments.
+ Chives are best consumed in the morning when freshly cooked, and leftovers should be avoided.
+ When cooking with chives, it is important to chop them finely and cook them just enough to retain their nutrients without overdoing it.
A simple recipe for frying eggs with chives

To prepare this delicious dish, start by peeling and thinly slicing the shallots. Remove any yellow or wilted chives, wash the rest, and cut them into 2-inch lengths. Wash and finely chop the chili. In a bowl, crack four eggs and whisk them together. Add half a tablespoon of fish sauce and the chopped chili to the eggs, whisking to combine. Finally, add the chives and give the mixture a final stir.
Heat a pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of cooking oil. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced shallots and fry until fragrant. Reduce the heat and pour in the egg and chive mixture. Fry the eggs over medium heat, using a spatula to spread the chives evenly across the surface. Fry each side for 3-5 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness. Serve and enjoy!
The Ultimate Egg Fry: A Japanese Twist on a Classic
The Vietnamese have a unique tradition of frying eggs with scallions, resulting in a delicious and nutritious dish. The secret lies in the aromatic scallions, which elevate the humble egg into a culinary masterpiece. By incorporating these flavorful greens, you’ll discover a mouthwatering and wholesome treat that will tantalize your taste buds.