Mediterranean Diet Chinese Tea Eggs

Infuse the ancient charm of Chinese tea eggs with a modern Mediterranean twist in this delightful recipe for Mediterranean Diet Chinese Tea Eggs. Perfectly hard-boiled eggs are gently cracked to create a stunning marbled effect before being simmered in an aromatic blend of low-sodium soy sauce, black tea, star anise, cinnamon, bay leaves, garlic, and a hint of citrusy orange zest. This flavor-packed marinade not only adds depth but also aligns with Mediterranean diet principles by emphasizing wholesome, nutrient-rich ingredients. With just a little prep and an overnight soak, these eggs transform into a visually striking and flavorful snack, appetizer, or protein-packed addition to salads. Embrace the fusion of global cuisines with this unique, healthy recipe—perfect for elevating any Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:55 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 6 pieces large eggs
• 120 ml low-sodium soy sauce
• 500 ml water
• 2 tablespoons or bags black tea leaves or tea bags
• 2 pieces star anise
• 1 piece cinnamon stick
• 2 pieces garlic cloves, smashed
• 0.5 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 2 pieces bay leaves

Directions

Step 1

Place the eggs in a medium saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 8 minutes.

Step 2

Remove the eggs with a slotted spoon and immediately place them in a bowl of ice water to cool. This stops the cooking process.

Step 3

Gently crack the eggshells with the back of a spoon without peeling them. This will allow the flavors to infuse through the cracks.

Step 4

In the same saucepan, combine the 500 ml water, soy sauce, black tea leaves or bags, star anise, cinnamon stick, smashed garlic, cracked black pepper, orange zest, and bay leaves.

Step 5

Return the cracked eggs to the saucepan with the tea mixture. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes.

Step 6

After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the eggs sit in the tea mixture for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator, to absorb more flavor.

Step 7

When ready to serve, peel the eggs delicately to reveal the marbled pattern and serve at room temperature as a snack, appetizer, or addition to a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(959.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	563.2

Total Fat 31.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 9.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 1116mg	0%
Sodium 4468.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 26.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 4.1g	0%
Total Sugars 0.2g
Protein 54.9g	0%

Vitamin D 240IU	0%
Calcium 322.2mg	0%
Iron 14.9mg	0%
Potassium 689.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 46.8%

Protein: 35.9%

Carbs: 17.2%