Milk and Egg Lao Zao (牛奶鸡蛋醪糟) is a delightful dish that originated from the Linxia region in Gansu Province. It later made its way to Lanzhou, where it has become a popular snack among locals and visitors alike. As a unique specialty of Lanzhou, this dish is cherished for its distinctive flavor and rich nutritional value, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts from various regions.
Main Ingredients and Preparation Steps
Main Ingredients: The key components of Milk and Egg Lao Zao include fresh milk, eggs, and lao zao (also known as fermented rice or jiang mi jiu). Additional ingredients such as raisins, goji berries, peanuts, granulated sugar, walnut pieces, and sesame seeds are often included to enhance the flavor and texture.
Preparation Steps:
- Heating the Lao Zao: Start by placing the lao zao in a pot with fresh milk. Heat the mixture until it reaches a boil, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Adding the Eggs: Crack the eggs into the boiling mixture, gently stirring from the bottom to prevent the eggs from sticking to the pot. This technique creates delicate egg ribbons in the dish.
- Incorporating Additional Ingredients: Sprinkle in the raisins, goji berries, peanuts, and granulated sugar. These ingredients add sweetness and texture to the dish.
- Final Mixing: Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are evenly combined. Once done, remove the pot from heat, and your delicious Milk and Egg Lao Zao is ready to serve.
Texture and Appearance
The result is a visually appealing dish with soft, silky egg ribbons that are tender and flavorful. The combination of sweetness and a slight tang from the fermented rice creates a delightful taste experience. The dish is characterized by a beautiful blend of yellow and white hues, punctuated by the colorful spots of dried and fresh fruits, making it not only tasty but also visually enticing.
Target Audience
Milk and Egg Lao Zao is particularly suitable for children in their growth and development phases, individuals engaged in physical labor, and those looking to boost their immune systems. While it boasts a wealth of nutritional benefits, moderation is key to prevent potential weight gain or other health issues. Additionally, people with allergies to milk, eggs, or fermented rice should avoid consuming this dish.
