How to Make Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry in 15 Minutes

Sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most comforting. Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry is a beloved classic in Chinese cuisine, known for its rich combination of juicy tomatoes and soft scrambled eggs. With a few pantry ingredients and only 15 minutes of cooking time, you can create a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. It’s the perfect recipe for a quick and nutritious meal.

This dish is a staple in many Chinese homes, often enjoyed with steamed rice. It’s simple, delicious, and incredibly versatile, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or anyone looking to prepare a tasty meal in a flash. Whether you enjoy it as a quick lunch or a light dinner, the combination of sweet tomatoes, savory eggs, and the perfect stir-fry sauce is sure to please.

What Is Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry?

Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry is a classic dish in Chinese cuisine that pairs eggs and tomatoes together. The tomatoes are stir-fried to release their juices, creating a rich and slightly tangy sauce. The eggs are scrambled into soft curds, adding a creamy texture that complements the tomatoes. The dish is commonly seasoned with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar, making it a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors.

The simplicity of this dish is what makes it so special. It doesn’t require complicated ingredients or long cooking times. In fact, the beauty of Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry lies in its efficiency and comforting flavors that come together quickly.

Why You’ll Love Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings or when you’re craving something comforting without the hassle.

• Flavorful: The sweet and tangy tomatoes paired with the creamy eggs make for a rich and satisfying dish.

• Versatile: You can easily adapt this dish to your preferences by adding your choice of vegetables or protein, like tofu, shrimp, or chicken.

• Nutritious: Packed with protein from the eggs and vitamins from the tomatoes, this dish offers a balanced meal without being heavy.

• Great for Meal Prep: It stores well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for lunch the next day.

Ingredients for Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry

This dish uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 medium tomatoes (about 1 lb or 500g), cut into wedges
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• 1-2 green onions, sliced (separate the whites and greens)
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt (plus more to taste)
• Pinch of sugar (to balance acidity)
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp ketchup (optional, adds a bit of tang)
• 3 tbsp neutral oil (vegetable or canola oil)
• 1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil (optional, for added fragrance)
• 2 cups cooked white rice, for serving

Stir-Fry Sauce:

• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sugar

Cornstarch Slurry:

• 1/2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp water

How to Make Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry in 15 Minutes

This stir fry recipe is simple to follow and quick to prepare. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

• Tomatoes: Cut the tomatoes into wedges, removing the cores. If you prefer a more soupy version, you can chop them into smaller pieces.
• Green Onions: Slice the green onions and separate the white parts (to use first) from the green tops (to use as garnish).
• Eggs: Beat the eggs with salt, sugar, and a pinch of MSG (optional). Set the eggs aside.

Step 2: Make the Stir-Fry Sauce and Slurry

• Stir-Fry Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
• Cornstarch Slurry: In another small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water. Set both aside.

Step 3: Cook the Eggs

1. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pour in the beaten eggs and gently move them around for about 45 seconds until they are about 80% cooked. The goal is to have soft curds, so avoid stirring too vigorously.
3. Once the eggs are cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Tomatoes

1. In the same pan, heat 1 tbsp oil over high heat.
2. Add the white parts of the green onions and sauté for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes along with a pinch of salt. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the tomatoes begin to release their juices.
4. Pour the prepared sauce into the pan. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the sauce starts to bubble.

Step 5: Add the Slurry and Combine

1. Add water and ketchup to the pan. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 1-2 minutes.
2. Once the tomatoes have softened, pour in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Stir for about 30 seconds until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

1. Add the cooked eggs back into the pan. Gently break them into smaller pieces and mix them with the tomatoes and sauce.
2. Stir everything together for 1 minute. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with more salt, if necessary. Add sesame oil (if using) and give it a final stir.

Step 7: Serve

• Garnish with the green tops of the onions. Serve hot with steamed rice for a satisfying meal.

Tips for Making the Perfect Tomato Egg Stir Fry

• Do not overcook the eggs: The key to this dish is soft, creamy eggs. Don’t overcook them when scrambling.

• Adjust the acidity: Tomatoes can vary in their level of acidity. If your tomatoes are too sour, a little more sugar or ketchup can help balance the flavors.

• Vegetable Options: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas to make the dish even more nutritious.

• Customize the Protein: You can easily add protein to this dish. Tofu, chicken, or shrimp work well, and they can be cooked separately and added at the end.

Nutritional Benefits of Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry

This simple stir-fry offers a balance of healthy ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information:

Health Benefits:

• Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins C and A, tomatoes are great for your immune system and skin.
• Eggs: Provide a good source of protein and healthy fats, helping support muscle repair and overall health.
• Soy Sauce & Oyster Sauce: These ingredients add flavor while keeping the dish low in calories.

Variations and Customizations for Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry

One of the best things about Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry is how easy it is to make the dish your own. Whether you’re looking to add more veggies, switch up the protein, or even alter the flavor profile, this dish is highly adaptable. Here are some customizations and variations you can try to elevate your stir-fry.

Vegetable Additions

While the classic recipe features just tomatoes and eggs, you can easily add more vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition. Here are some great options to add to your stir-fry:

• Bok Choy: A crunchy, leafy green that adds both texture and nutrients. Simply chop and add it to the wok along with the tomatoes.
• Bell Peppers: Red, yellow, or green bell peppers add sweetness and color to the dish. Thinly slice them and toss them in after sautéing the garlic and green onions.
• Spinach: Add fresh spinach at the end of the cooking process for a pop of color and extra vitamins.
• Carrots: Shredded or julienned carrots bring a slight sweetness and a nice crunch, balancing the softness of the eggs and tomatoes.
• Mushrooms: For a more earthy flavor, sauté mushrooms with the green onions before adding the tomatoes.

These vegetables not only make the dish healthier but also add vibrant colors and textures that complement the soft eggs and juicy tomatoes.

Protein Additions

Although the traditional Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry focuses on eggs, you can make the dish even more hearty by adding protein. Here are some protein options to try:

• Tofu: For a vegetarian or vegan version, add tofu to the stir-fry. Use firm or extra-firm tofu, cubed, and sauté it until golden before adding the tomatoes and eggs.
• Chicken: Thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh adds lean protein and pairs well with the savory stir-fry sauce. Cook the chicken separately and mix it into the dish towards the end.
• Shrimp: If you love seafood, add shrimp for a light, protein-packed option. Shrimp cooks quickly, so toss it into the wok after the green onions are fragrant and before adding the tomatoes.
• Beef: For a richer flavor, use thinly sliced beef like flank steak or sirloin. Beef adds a savory depth that pairs wonderfully with the tangy tomatoes.

Feel free to customize this dish with any protein of your choice. It’s a great way to turn a simple meal into something more substantial.

Flavor Adjustments and Additions

If you’re looking to adjust the flavor of your Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry, there are a few easy tweaks you can make:

• Spice it up: If you love a bit of heat, add chili oil, chili flakes, or even fresh sliced chilies to the stir-fry. This adds a spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
• Ginger: Adding a small amount of fresh ginger when sautéing the green onions and garlic will give your dish an aromatic kick that complements the tomatoes and eggs.
• Vinegar: A dash of rice vinegar can enhance the dish’s tanginess and brighten the overall flavor, especially if the tomatoes aren’t as tart as you’d like them to be.
• Oyster Sauce: For a deeper umami flavor, you can increase the amount of oyster sauce in the stir-fry sauce. This will intensify the savory richness of the dish.

Feel free to experiment with these adjustments to match your taste preferences.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or for enjoying leftovers the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Storing Leftovers

1. Cool Down: Allow the stir fry to cool to room temperature before storing.
2. Airtight Container: Place the leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
3. Refrigerate: Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Leftovers

1. Stovetop: Reheat the stir fry in a pan over medium heat, adding a small splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally until heated through.
2. Microwave: You can also reheat the leftovers in the microwave. Place the stir fry in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.

The leftovers can still be delicious, with the flavors melding even more after sitting for a day or two.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry

While this dish is quick and simple, there are a few tips that can help you elevate the flavor and ensure your Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry turns out perfectly every time.

1. Use Fresh, Ripe Tomatoes

The key to making the best tomato egg stir-fry is using ripe, juicy tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes will provide the right balance of sweetness and acidity, creating a flavorful base for the dish. If the tomatoes are not ripe enough, the dish may lack the natural sweetness that makes it so comforting. If you’re making this dish out of season, you can also use canned tomatoes for a more consistent flavor.

2. Avoid Overcooking the Eggs

The eggs in this dish should remain soft and fluffy, so avoid overcooking them. You want them to be only about 80% cooked when you take them out of the pan. They will continue to cook in the sauce, which ensures they maintain their soft texture and don’t become rubbery.

3. Don’t Skimp on the Sauce

The sauce plays a big role in this dish, so be sure to use the right proportions of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. The sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes, while the soy sauce and oyster sauce add a depth of umami flavor. You can adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce based on your personal preferences, but make sure to taste and adjust as needed.

4. Keep the Heat High

Stir-frying is all about high heat. Make sure your wok or pan is hot enough to quickly cook the ingredients, especially the tomatoes and eggs. Cooking on high heat allows the tomatoes to release their juices quickly and infuses the dish with that smoky, umami flavor that makes stir-fries so delicious.

5. Serve with Steamed Rice

Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry is traditionally served with steamed rice, which helps absorb the savory sauce. Jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice (for a low-carb version) are all great choices. The rice helps balance the strong flavors of the stir fry and makes the dish even more satisfying.

Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry Recipe Card

Ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 4 medium tomatoes (about 1 lb or 500g), cut into wedges
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• 1-2 green onions, sliced (separate the whites and greens)
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
• Pinch of sugar (to balance acidity)
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp ketchup (optional)
• 3 tbsp neutral oil (vegetable or canola oil)
• 1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil (optional, for extra fragrance)
• 2 cups cooked white rice (about 1 cup or 210g per serving)

Stir-Fry Sauce:

• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sugar

Cornstarch Slurry:

• 1/2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp water

Instructions:

1. Prep the Ingredients:

   • Cut the tomatoes into wedges, removing the cores. If you prefer a more soupy version, chop them into smaller pieces.
   • Slice the green onions, separating the white parts from the green tops.
   • Beat the eggs with salt, sugar, and MSG (optional). Set aside.

2. Make the Stir-Fry Sauce and Slurry:

   • In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar to make the stir-fry sauce.
   • In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create the slurry.

3. Cook the Eggs:

   • Heat 2 tbsp oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Pour in the beaten eggs and gently stir for about 45 seconds, until 80% cooked (eggs should be soft). Remove from the pan and set aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Tomatoes:

   • In the same wok, heat 1 tbsp oil over high heat.
   • Add the white parts of the green onions and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Add the tomatoes, a pinch of salt, and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
   • Pour in the stir-fry sauce and stir for another 1-2 minutes until the tomatoes soften.

5. Add the Slurry and Combine:

   • Add water and ketchup, then stir to combine. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until the juices start bubbling.
   • Add the cornstarch slurry and stir for 30 seconds to thicken the sauce.

6. Combine Eggs and Final Touches:

   • Add the cooked eggs back into the pan, gently breaking them into smaller pieces.
   • Stir everything together for 1 minute. Taste and adjust with more salt if needed.
   • Add sesame oil (if using) and give it a final stir.

7. Serve:

   • Garnish with the green tops of the green onions and serve immediately with steamed rice.

Notes:

• Customize with veggies or protein: Add vegetables like bok choy, bell peppers, or spinach, or protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra nutrition.
• Adjust the acidity: If your tomatoes are too acidic, a little extra sugar or ketchup will help balance the flavor.
• Optional spicy version: Add chili oil or red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Method: Stir-fry

Cuisine: Chinese