Eating in China
Tamsui iron eggs

Tamsui iron eggs

Chinese name
淡水铁蛋
Mandarin pinyin
dàn shuǐ tiě dàn

Peeled eggs repeatedly braised and air-dried until dark, smaller and distinctly chewy. This representative version uses chicken eggs in sweet soy seasoning; these are firmer than ordinary braised eggs.

Heat
Region
Taiwan
Type
Order in Chinese

At the table

How to enjoy it

Eat in small bites, or cut before sharing. Do not swallow a small egg whole; the chewy texture is not suitable for everyone.

A useful check

Contains egg and soy; soy sauce may contain wheat. Check the package for additional ingredients and storage directions.

How it may vary

Egg size and type, spice mixtures and chili flavors vary. Ask which version is offered.

GET TO KNOW THE DISH

What goes into it?

Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.

Egg size and type, spice mixtures and chili flavors vary. Ask which version is offered.

Recipes vary by restaurant.

How does it taste?

Concentrated savory soy flavor with sweetness.

Chili heat
Texture
Firm, chewy white and dense cooked yolk.
How it’s made
Cooked peeled eggs undergo repeated soy braising and drying.

Egg size and type, spice mixtures and chili flavors vary. Ask which version is offered.

A CONNECTION TO PLACE

Origin & regional roots

Explore regional food

Associated with Taiwan.

About this regional connection

Taiwan: Iron eggs are associated with Tamsui's snack and souvenir shops. Repeated cooking and drying, rather than any metal ingredient, give them their dark color and concentrated chew.

Ask if they have it first

ASK IF IT'S AVAILABLE

请问你们有淡水铁蛋吗?

Do you have this item?

A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ

Story & history

A chewy Tamsui specialty

Iron eggs are associated with Tamsui's snack and souvenir shops. Repeated cooking and drying, rather than any metal ingredient, give them their dark color and concentrated chew.

EATING IN CHINA · THE APP

Get the app

Discover local dishes, understand their ingredients and flavours, and choose what you’d like to try. Explore vegetarian, vegan and kid-friendly food ideas for your China trip.

Food guides, ingredients and trip planning are free.

See what’s in the app