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Crispy New Years Appetizers Dinner Bowl with Soft-Boiled Eggs

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A quick and easy appetizer featuring crispy coated protein and soft-boiled eggs, perfect for New Year’s celebrations and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed cornflakes for gluten-free)
  • Thinly sliced cabbage or shredded kale (or shredded Brussels sprouts or thinly sliced radishes)
  • Thinly sliced chicken breast or tofu (marinated in soy sauce and garlic)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for marinating)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of black pepper
  • Smoked paprika
  • Sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Chopped scallions (for garnish)
  • Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup neutral oil (canola or vegetable oil) for frying

Instructions

  1. Bring a medium saucepan of water to a gentle boil. Carefully lower large eggs (room temperature) into the water using a slotted spoon. Boil for exactly 6 minutes for a perfect jammy yolk.
  2. Immediately transfer eggs to an ice bath to stop cooking. Once cooled, peel gently and set aside.
  3. In a bowl, mix 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of black pepper. Add thinly sliced chicken breast or tofu and toss to coat. Let it sit for 10 minutes to soak in flavors.
  4. Spread 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Season with smoked paprika and sea salt. Toss in thinly sliced cabbage or shredded kale for extra crunch.
  5. Heat 1/2 cup neutral oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Dredge the marinated protein pieces in the panko mixture, pressing lightly so crumbs stick well.
  6. Fry in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  7. In serving bowls, layer the crispy base with fried protein, then nestle the soft-boiled eggs on top.
  8. Drizzle a sauce made from 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup over everything.
  9. Garnish with chopped scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro.

Notes

Use slightly older eggs for easier peeling. Maintain oil temperature around 350Β°F (175Β°C) to avoid burning the coating. For gluten-free, substitute panko with crushed rice crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs. For a healthier option, bake coated protein at 400Β°F (200Β°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy appetizers, soft-boiled eggs, New Year's recipe, party food, easy appetizers, gluten-free option, vegetarian option