Side Dishes

Chai Poh Omelette

Chai Poh Omelette
This classic Teochew-style Chai Poh Omelette is the ultimate comfort food, blending the savory crunch of preserved radish with silky, golden eggs. It is a nostalgic staple often served with plain rice porridge, offering a perfect balance of umami and sweetness in every bite.

Prep

10m

Cook

10m

Serves

4


1 Ingredients

Qty Ingredient
100 g 100 g Preserved sweet radish (Chai Poh)
6 pieces 6 pieces Large eggs
3 cloves 3 cloves Garlic, minced
1 tsp 5 ml Light soy sauce
0.25 tsp 1 g White pepper
2 tbsp 30 ml Vegetable oil
1 stalk 1 stalk Spring onions, chopped
0.5 tsp 2 g Sugar

2 Method

1

Step 1. Place the preserved radish in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse thoroughly under cold running water to remove excess salt. Squeeze dry with your hands.

2

Step 2. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs with light soy sauce, white pepper, and half of the chopped spring onions until well combined.

3

Step 3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and rinsed radish. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the radish becomes fragrant and slightly caramelized. Sprinkle the sugar over the radish and toss.

4

Step 4. Spread the radish mixture evenly across the bottom of the pan. Increase heat to medium-high and add the remaining tablespoon of oil, swirling to coat the edges.

5

Step 5. Pour the egg mixture over the radish. Let it sit for 1 minute until the bottom is golden brown.

6

Step 6. Carefully flip the omelette in sections or as a whole. Cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes until fully set and golden.

7

Step 7. Garnish with the remaining spring onions and serve hot with congee or steamed rice.

💡 Chef's Tips

  • ·

    Rinsing is crucial: Even the 'sweet' version of preserved radish is very salty. Always rinse and squeeze dry to control the sodium levels.

  • ·

    High heat for crispy edges: Ensure the pan is hot before pouring the eggs to get those signature lacy, crispy brown edges.

  • ·

    Don't over-season: The radish provides most of the salt, so go light on the soy sauce.

  • ·

    Caramelization: Sautéing the radish first with a pinch of sugar unlocks a deep umami flavor that raw radish lacks.

? FAQ

What is Chai Poh?
Chai Poh is dried, salted, and preserved daikon radish commonly used in Chinese and Southeast Asian cooking.
Can I use the salty version of Chai Poh instead of the sweet one?
Yes, but you must soak the salty version in water for at least 10-15 minutes and rinse it multiple times to avoid a dish that is too salty.
Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be if you use a gluten-free tamari instead of standard light soy sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan to maintain the texture.

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