These Baked Noodle Bird Nests with Quail Eggs are a stunning and creative dish that combines crispy baked noodle nests with tender, delicate quail eggs in the center. The nests are perfectly golden and crunchy, offering a delightful contrast to the soft, runny yolk of the quail egg. This dish is both elegant and savory, making it perfect for special occasions, a fancy brunch, or an appetizer that will impress your guests. The flavor is subtle yet rich, with a beautiful presentation that resembles a bird’s nest, making it a memorable dish.
Ingredients:
For the Noodle Nests:
- 8 oz (225g) egg noodles or thin rice noodles
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for brushing)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Quail Eggs:
- 8-10 quail eggs (depending on the number of nests)
- 1/2 tsp salt (for boiling eggs)
- 1/2 tsp white vinegar (optional, to help prevent cracking)
Garnish (optional):
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley, cilantro, or chives)
- Red pepper flakes (optional for added heat)
- Sesame seeds
Directions:
For the Noodle Nests:
- Cook the Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse the noodles with cold water to stop the cooking process. Let them sit in a colander to drain completely.
- Season the Noodles: Once drained, place the noodles in a large bowl. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Toss the noodles gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasonings.
- Shape the Nests: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or small oven-safe bowls with vegetable oil. Take small handfuls of noodles and twist them into loose nests, then place each nest into a muffin cup or bowl. Press them lightly to form a nest shape, leaving a small indentation in the center where the quail egg will sit.
- Bake the Nests: Brush the tops of the nests with a little extra vegetable oil for a golden, crispy finish. Bake the noodle nests in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown.
For the Quail Eggs:
- Boil the Quail Eggs: Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add the quail eggs and a pinch of salt (and vinegar if desired) to the boiling water. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook the eggs for 2-3 minutes for soft-boiled eggs, or longer if you prefer a firmer yolk.
- Cool and Peel: Once cooked, transfer the eggs to an ice bath or run them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Peel the quail eggs carefully.
Assembling the Dish:
- Place Eggs in Nests: Once the noodle nests are baked and slightly cooled, carefully place one quail egg into the indentation of each nest.
- Final Bake (Optional): If you prefer the quail eggs slightly more cooked, place the nests back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the eggs are set to your liking.
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish: Once removed from the oven, garnish the nests with fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the Baked Noodle Bird Nests with Quail Eggs as an appetizer, brunch dish, or a delicate main course. These nests are beautiful and delicious, making them a show-stopping dish.
Enjoy:
These Baked Noodle Bird Nests with Quail Eggs offer a delightful blend of crispy, savory noodles with a delicate, rich quail egg in the center. Whether served at a dinner party or a casual meal, this dish will be a memorable highlight.
