Weird Chinese Food › Fermented & Funky
Century Egg
皮蛋 · pídàn
Bravery rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️·· Brave
What does century egg taste like?
The white turns into an amber, see-through jelly and the yolk into a creamy, dark green-grey paste. Strong ammonia and sulfur aroma, rich savoury taste. Often served cold with tofu, soy sauce and chili, or in congee with pork.
Where to eat it in China
All over China — as a cold dish (皮蛋豆腐) or in Cantonese 'century egg and pork congee'.
How much does it cost?
Typical range: very cheap; a few yuan per egg at the market.
⚠️ Safety tips
Despite the name it isn't 100 years old — it's preserved for weeks in an alkaline mix. Buy reputable brands (look for 'lead-free' 无铅 labelling).
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FAQ
Is a century egg really 100 years old?
No, it is cured for several weeks to a few months.
Why is it black?
The alkaline curing changes the egg proteins and colour.