Steaming Scrambled Eggs: A Quick, Easy Breakfast Option

Steaming is an unusual way to cook scrambled eggs, but it can produce a silken, soft scramble. To make scrambled eggs in a steamer, you'll need to whisk your eggs with salt and pepper, and possibly cream, and then steam them in an oven or combi oven for around 2 to 10 minutes, depending on the number of eggs and your cooking vessel. You can also use a steam wand to make scrambled eggs in around 30 to 90 seconds.

How to cook scrambled eggs on a steamer

How to steam scramble eggs with an espresso machine

Steaming eggs with an espresso machine is a quick and easy way to make a soft and creamy scramble. This method is ideal for those who enjoy soft-boiled or poached eggs, as the end result is slightly runnier than traditional scrambled eggs.

What You'll Need:

• Espresso machine with a steam wand
• 2-3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon of butter, cut into small cubes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A porcelain or steam-safe container
• A hot paper cup (optional)

Method:

Step 1: Prep your eggs

• Beat together 2-3 large eggs with the butter, salt, and pepper.
• Transfer this mixture to your porcelain or steam-safe container.

Step 2: Get to steaming

• Turn the steamer of your espresso machine to full power and release any water into a cup, then discard.
• Insert the steam wand into the egg mixture and slowly mix with a fork until the eggs are creamy and soft. This should take between 30 and 90 seconds.
• Remove the eggs just before they're done, as they will continue to cook a little from the residual heat.

Step 3: Serve

If you're happy with the consistency, stir in any additional butter or cream and serve immediately.

Optional:

• For an extra fluffy texture, some people add a little milk, olive oil, or butter to the eggs while steaming.
• You can also pour the eggs onto buttered toast or a warmed tortilla, and sprinkle with cheese.

Tips:

• Keep the steam wand on until after you've removed the eggs, so it doesn't suck in any egg.
• Clean the steam wand immediately after use, or keep it in a cup of hot water between uses to prevent it from getting crusty.

Troubleshooting:

• Be careful not to overcook the eggs, as they can become rubbery.
• Avoid using a ceramic or glass dish, as this will affect your cooking time.

Enjoy your silky soft scrambled eggs!

How to season steamed scrambled eggs

Steamed scrambled eggs are a great option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They are soft, creamy, and fluffy, and can be made in a large batch, making them perfect for serving a crowd. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to season steamed scrambled eggs:

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs (preferably free-range or pasture-raised)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1-1.5 tablespoons of butter (optional)
• 1-1.5 tablespoons of cream (optional)
• Milk, plant milk, or water (optional)
• Fresh herbs, such as chives (optional)

Method:

• Preheat your steamer or steam oven to 200°F/95°C with the steam setting (100% humidity).
• In a medium-sized bowl, crack and whisk the eggs until the yolks and whites are thoroughly combined. You can adjust the consistency by adding a small amount of milk, plant milk, or water.
• Season the egg mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. You can also add other seasonings, such as fresh or dried herbs, at this stage.
• Pour the seasoned egg mixture into a stainless steel tray suitable for your steamer or steam oven. Do not use a ceramic or glass dish, as it will affect the cooking time.
• Place the tray in the steamer and set the timer for 2.5 minutes.
• After the initial cooking time, give the eggs a good stir, loosening the edges and folding the less-cooked parts into the centre to create a soft scramble.
• If the eggs are done to your liking, stir in the optional butter and/or cream, and serve immediately. The texture will be better if these ingredients are added at the end.
• If the eggs are still too soft for your taste, return them to the steamer for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute. The total cooking time should not exceed 3-4 minutes.
• For a larger batch, you can scale up the recipe by using a larger tray and increasing the number of eggs to 15. This will make 5-6 portions and require a slightly longer cooking time.
• Once cooked, you can keep the scrambled eggs warm in the steamer or steam oven at a lower temperature setting while you prepare the rest of your meal.

Tips:

• The cooking time may vary depending on your steamer model and the number of eggs, so it's important to keep an eye on the eggs to avoid overcooking.
• For a softer, creamier texture, stop cooking when the eggs are mostly set but still a little runny.
• Experiment with different seasonings and add-ins to create your own signature steamed scrambled eggs. Some popular options include cheese, herbs, vegetables, or meats.

The best cooking temperature for steamed scrambled eggs

Steamed scrambled eggs are a quick, easy, and delicious meal option. They can be made in a steam oven or with an espresso machine steam wand. Regardless of the method, the key to achieving the perfect scrambled eggs is controlling the temperature to avoid overcooking them.

Steam Oven Method

When preparing scrambled eggs in a steam oven, preheat the oven to 200°F/95°C with the steam setting at 100% humidity. This temperature ensures that the eggs cook gently and evenly without drying out.

Once the oven is preheated, quickly place the whisked eggs in the oven and set a timer for 2.5 minutes. After this initial cooking period, give the eggs a good stir to create a soft scramble. If you prefer your eggs a little more cooked, return them to the oven for an additional 30 seconds to one minute. The total cooking time should not exceed 3-4 minutes.

The beauty of using a steam oven is that you can hold your scrambled eggs at a temperature of 140°F/60°C, keeping them warm and ready to serve without overcooking. This is especially useful when cooking for a crowd.

Steam Wand Method

When using an espresso machine steam wand to prepare scrambled eggs, the specific temperature is not as crucial as the technique. Break your eggs into a hot paper cup and whisk them with salt and pepper. Fold in some butter, then turn on the steam wand and swirl it into the eggs until they reach your desired level of doneness, which should take between 30 and 90 seconds.

It is important to keep the steam wand on even after removing the eggs to prevent any egg residue from being sucked into the wand. This method produces fresh and fluffy scrambled eggs that are sure to impress your customers or guests.

Tips for Perfect Scrambled Eggs

Whether using a steam oven or a steam wand, there are a few key tips to keep in mind to achieve the best results:

• Avoid using a whisk to beat the eggs, as it will create a creamier texture instead of the desired fluffiness. A fork or a rubber spatula is a better option.
• Use a non-stick pan to prevent the eggs from sticking and to make cleaning easier.
• Start with the pan on medium heat to melt the butter, then reduce the heat to medium-low once you add the eggs. This ensures that the eggs cook gradually and don't dry out.
• Remove the eggs from the heat when they still look a little wetter than your desired consistency, as they will continue to cook slightly even after being taken off the heat.
• If adding mix-ins such as vegetables or meats, cook them separately and add them towards the end to avoid overcooking the eggs.

How to serve steamed scrambled eggs

Steamed scrambled eggs are a great way to cook for a crowd and can be served in a variety of ways. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to serve steamed scrambled eggs:

Preparing the Eggs

Firstly, you will need to gather your ingredients and equipment. For this method, you will need a steam oven or a combi oven, a stainless steel tray or pan, and your desired number of eggs (typically 3-6 eggs). You can also add butter, cream, salt, and pepper to taste.

Once you have your ingredients, crack the eggs into a mixing bowl and whisk them. You can add salt and pepper to taste, as well as any other desired seasonings. If you want to include butter and cream, you can also add them at this stage and whisk to combine.

Cooking the Eggs

Preheat your steam oven to 200°F/95°C with the steam setting (100% humidity), or preheat your combi oven to 212°F (100°C) in steam mode.

For the steam oven, pour the egg mixture into a small stainless steel tray or pan and place it in the oven. Set a timer for 2 ½ minutes. For a combi oven, pour the egg mixture into a steam table pan.

After the initial cooking time, remove the tray and stir the eggs. For steam ovens, use a spatula to loosen the edges and fold the less-cooked middle to create a soft scramble. If using a combi oven, remove the pan and whisk to break up the eggs.

Serving the Eggs

The cooking time will depend on how runny or well-done you like your scrambled eggs. If you think they are done, you can stir in the butter and cream (if you haven't already) and serve immediately. You can also add a sprinkle of flake salt.

If you prefer your eggs a little more cooked, return them to the oven for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute. For a combi oven, place the pan back in and steam for 4 more minutes.

Variations and Additions

You can get creative and serve your steamed scrambled eggs with various sides and toppings. Here are some ideas:

• Soft goat cheese or feta with spinach leaves
• Cherry tomatoes and cheddar cheese
• Ham and pan-fried mushrooms
• Fresh chilli, avocado, and lime in a warmed tortilla, with or without bacon
• Roasted capsicum and asparagus spears
• Grain mustard with wedges of Brie or Camembert cheese

How to clean equipment after steaming scrambled eggs

To clean equipment after steaming scrambled eggs, it is important to act quickly and use the right tools to prevent stubborn, stuck-on egg residue. Here is a detailed guide on how to clean your equipment after steaming scrambled eggs:

For Non-Stick Pans:

• As soon as you finish steaming scrambled eggs, remove the eggs from the pan and fill the pan with hot water. Place it back on the stove and turn the heat on.
• Let the water boil for a few minutes, then carefully remove the pan from the heat.
• Using a wooden or silicone spatula, gently scrape off any egg residue stuck to the pan.
• Drain the water and rinse the pan with warm water.
• If necessary, use a small amount of dish soap and a soft sponge or cloth to wash the pan. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or steel wool, as these can damage the non-stick coating.

For Stainless Steel Pans:

• While the pan is still hot, add 2 cups of water or enough to cover the bottom and sides.
• Turn the heat to high and let the water boil for 2-3 minutes.
• Use a wooden or silicone spatula to scrape off any egg residue.
• Drain the water and rinse the pan.
• If there is still some egg residue, use a small amount of dish soap and a non-scratch scrub sponge to wash the pan gently.

For Steam Wands:

• After steaming scrambled eggs, immediately wipe down the steam wand with a damp towel.
• Remove the tip of the steam wand and clean it thoroughly, ensuring all egg residue is removed.
• Finally, blow into the steam wand a few times while directing it into the towel to remove any remaining residue.

General Tips:

• Act quickly after cooking to prevent egg residue from drying and sticking to the pan or equipment.
• Avoid using high heat when cooking eggs, as this can cause the non-stick coating to break down.
• Soaking the pan in hot water for a while can help loosen stuck-on egg residue.
• For stubborn stains, a paste of baking soda and water can be applied to the pan before scrubbing.

Frequently asked questions