Asian omelets: The Ultimate Guide From Tamagoyaki to Omurice

Author: Joost Nusselder, author of The Essential Japanese meal planner cookbook Updated August 5, 2022

Omelets are delicious, versatile, and easy to make. But have you ever wondered what makes Asian omelets so special?

There are many types of omelets in Asia, each with their own unique filling and flavor profile. Some of the most popular are Thai rolled omelet, Cambodian omelet, Japanese tamagoyaki, and Chinese egg omelette.

Let’s look at the differences between each type of omelet and how they differ from American omelets.

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What Exactly is an Omelet? Let’s Break it Down

An omelet is a dish made from beaten eggs that are cooked until set and then folded over a filling. It’s a versatile item that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The dish is regarded as a French designation, but it has been adapted and transformed in many ways across the globe, particularly in Asian countries.

Components of an Omelet

The basic components of an omelet are eggs, seasonings, and a filling. However, the filling can vary widely depending on the region and personal preference. In Asian countries, omelets are often filled with vegetables, fish, or meat. The Thai omelet, for example, is often filled with minced pork, fish sauce, and chile. Cambodian omelets, on the other hand, are filled with vegetables and sometimes flour to create a crisp layer.

Techniques for Cooking an Omelet

There are several techniques for cooking an omelet, including scrambled, plain, and layered. The Japanese version, tamagoyaki, is a healthy rolled omelet that is made by blending eggs with seasonings and then rolling the cooked egg into a log. Omurice, a popular comfort food in Japan, is a fried rice omelet that is made by wrapping fried rice in a plain omelet.

The Chinese Egg Omelette: A Quick and Easy Staple Dish

Looking for a quick and easy dinner option that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than the Chinese egg omelette. This incredible dish is a staple in Asian cuisine and is loved by people all over the world. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup of finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup of finely chopped carrots
• 1/4 cup of cooked shrimp
• 1/4 cup of pickled green onions
• 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of Maggi sauce
• 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil

Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, soy sauce, Maggi sauce, oyster sauce, and black pepper until smooth.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and carrots and cook for a few minutes until slightly softened.
4. Add the shrimp and pickled green onions and cook for another minute.
5. Spread the mixture evenly in the pan and pour the egg mixture over it.
6. Let the egg mixture cook for a few minutes until the edges start to set.
7. Use a spatula to lift the edges of the omelette and allow the uncooked mixture to flow underneath.
8. Once the omelette is cooked through, turn off the heat and remove it from the pan.
9. Top the omelette with a little bit of sesame oil and fresh green onions.

The Perfect Sauce Mixture

The sauce mixture is a crucial element in creating the perfect Chinese egg omelette. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of Maggi sauce
• 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce

Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Maggi sauce, and oyster sauce until smooth.
2. Drizzle the sauce over the cooked omelette before serving.

Prevent the Omelette from Sticking

One common issue when making Chinese egg omelettes is that they can stick to the pan. Here’s how to prevent that from happening:

• Use a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned cast iron pan.
• Heat the pan over low heat before adding the oil.
• Make sure the oil is hot before adding the egg mixture.
• Use a spatula to gently lift the edges of the omelette as it cooks to prevent it from sticking.

A Little Spice Goes a Long Way

If you love a slightly spicy kick to your food, try adding some ground white pepper to the egg mixture before cooking. It’s a simple addition that can take the flavor of your Chinese egg omelette to the next level.

Topped with Fresh Onions

Fresh green onions are a common topping for Chinese egg omelettes. If you don’t have any on hand, you can also use finely chopped regular onions or pickled onions for a tangy twist.

A Quick and Easy Dish

The Chinese egg omelette is a quick and easy dish that can be made in just a few minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to cook. Serve it with a side of rice for a complete meal.

Gyeran Mari Korean Rolled Omelette: A Delicious Twist on the Classic Dish

• Gyeran Mari is a popular Korean dish that requires a little bit of prep work, but the end result is well worth it.
• To make this dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon of neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil)
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/4 cup of chopped onions
– 1/4 cup of chopped carrots
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions

• You’ll also need a rectangular pan that’s about 8 inches by 6 inches, a bowl, and a few tablespoons of oil for cooking.

The Cooking Process

• Start by mixing together the eggs, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Make sure the mixture is well combined.
• Add the chopped onions, carrots, and scallions to the egg mixture and mix everything together.
• Heat up the rectangular pan on low heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Make sure the oil is evenly distributed across the pan.
• Pour the egg mixture into the pan and gently spread it out so that it covers the entire surface of the pan.
• Allow the egg mixture to cook for a few minutes until the edges start to turn slightly dark.
• Using a spatula, carefully lift the edges of the omelette and allow the wet egg mixture to flow underneath. Continue this process until the egg mixture is cooked evenly.
• Once the egg mixture is cooked, take it off the heat and set it aside to rest for a few minutes.
• While the omelette is resting, prepare a piece of parchment paper that’s slightly larger than the size of the pan.
• Place the parchment paper on top of the omelette and carefully flip the pan over so that the omelette is now on the parchment paper.
• Remove the pan and use a little bit of oil to lightly coat the top of the omelette.
• Starting from one edge, carefully roll the omelette into a tight roll. Make sure to roll it evenly and tightly.
• Once the omelette is rolled, allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into small pieces.
• Serve the Gyeran Mari Korean Rolled Omelette with a side of green sticks and enjoy!

Notes and Tips

• Gyeran Mari is a great dish to make for lunch or as a side dish for dinner.
• This dish contains a lot of vitamin A and is a great way to incorporate vegetables into your diet.
• If you’re new to making rolled omelettes, it may take a little bit of practice to get the shape just right.
• Make sure to cut the vegetables into small, fine pieces so that they cook evenly in the omelette.
• You can also add other vegetables to the mix, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to help give the dish a new twist.
• This dish is best served warm and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for a few days.

How to Make the Perfect Classic Thai Omelette

• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup chopped onions

Preparing the Mixture

1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and beat them until the yolks and whites are well combined.
2. Add the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and black pepper to the bowl and mix everything together.
3. Stir in the chopped onions and mix everything together again.

Cooking the Omelette

1. Heat the oil in a wok or frying pan over high heat until it’s hot.
2. Switch to medium heat and pour the egg mixture into the wok or frying pan.
3. Carefully swirl the mixture around to create a nice, even thickness.
4. Let the omelette cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and the edges are crispy.
5. Use a wire spatula to carefully flip the omelette over and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side.
6. Use the spatula to carefully remove the omelette from the wok or frying pan and set it on a plate lined with a paper towel to drain any excess oil.

Features of the Classic Thai Omelette

• The omelette is generally thicker and more tender than a normal omelette.
• It features chunks of onions throughout the body of the omelette.
• The omelette is often eaten as a main dish with rice and a side of vegetables.
• It’s a popular dish in Thailand and can be found at most local food markets.
• The price for a classic Thai omelette is generally quite low, making it an affordable option for those on a budget.

Why You Need to Try This Dish

• The classic Thai omelette is definitely one of the most famous dishes in Thailand.
• If you’re able to find a good one, it’s definitely worth trying.
• The mixture of sauces and spices gives the omelette a unique flavor that’s different from any other type of omelette you’ve tried before.
• The extra ingredients like onions and ground black pepper add a nice texture and flavor to the dish.
• If you prefer your omelette a bit dry, you can let it cook for a bit longer to prevent any runny parts.
• It’s a simple dish to prepare and only takes a few minutes to cook.
• The techniques used to create the perfect classic Thai omelette are easy to follow and can be done by anyone.

Helpful Tips

• Make sure to use high heat when heating the oil to prevent the omelette from sticking to the sides of the wok or frying pan.
• Be careful when flipping the omelette over to prevent it from breaking apart.
• Use a leaf of lettuce to wrap the omelette and add an extra bit of freshness to the dish.
• If you’re not a fan of onions, you can switch them out for a different type of vegetable.

Tamagoyaki Recipe – A Super Quick and Easy Japanese Rolled Omelette

• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp mirin (sweet rice wine)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp shredded bonito (dried fish flakes)
• 1 tbsp masago (capelin roe)

Prep Time and Cooking Time for Tamagoyaki

• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cooking Time: 10 mins

Tips for Making Tamagoyaki

• Use a nonstick skillet to prevent the egg from sticking to the pan.
• Swirl the oil around the pan to ensure that the egg is evenly cooked.
• Roll the omelette tightly using a bamboo mat to create the special shape.
• Top the tamagoyaki with shredded bonito and masago for a rich and creamy flavor.
• Repeat the rolling process quickly to prevent the egg from overcooking and to ensure that each layer is evenly cooked.
• Use a spatula to lift the rolled omelette and check that the underside is cooked before rolling it again.
• Transfer the rolled omelette onto a sheet of paper towel to remove any excess oil before rolling it into a special shape.

Variations of Tamagoyaki

• Try adding different ingredients to the egg mixture, such as shredded vegetables or meat, to create a unique flavor.
• Use different sauces to top the tamagoyaki, such as teriyaki or eel sauce, for a different taste.
• Experiment with different toppings, such as chopped scallions or pickled ginger, to add a little extra flavor to the dish.

Tamagoyaki for Dinner Tonight

If you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner tonight, why not try making tamagoyaki? This Japanese rolled omelette is super easy to make and can be whipped up in just a few minutes. Plus, it’s a little bit special, so it’s perfect for a night in when you want to treat yourself to something authentic and delicious.

So why not give it a try and see how easy it is to make tamagoyaki at home?

Chai Po Neng – A Flavorful Preserved Radish Omelette

Chai Po Neng is a popular dish in Singapore and Malaysia, which is made with preserved radish (Chai Poh) and eggs. It is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

How to Prepare Chai Po Neng?

To prepare Chai Po Neng, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tbsp of preserved radish (Chai Poh)
• 4 eggs
• 1 tbsp of vegetable oil
• 1 tsp of sugar
• 1/2 tsp of salt
• 1/4 tsp of ground white pepper
• 1 tbsp of corn starch
• 1 tbsp of water
• 1/2 onion, chopped

Here’s how to prepare it:

1. Start by cleaning the preserved radish and thinly slicing it.
2. In a medium bowl, beat the eggs with salt, sugar, and ground white pepper.
3. Add the sliced preserved radish to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
4. In a large non-stick pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the pan and spread it evenly.
6. Cover the pan and let the egg mixture cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bottom is lightly browned.
7. Using a spatula, gently fold the omelette in half and let it cook for another minute or until fully set.
8. Remove the omelette from the pan and let it cool for a few minutes.
9. In a small bowl, mix the corn starch with water to make a slurry.
10. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and stir-fry for a minute or until slightly browned.
11. Add the slurry to the pan and stir to combine.
12. Let the mixture cook for a minute or until it thickens.
13. Spread the onion mixture over the omelette and serve.

Cambodian Pork Omelette (Pong Mouan Snol): A Balanced and Flavorful Dish

Are you looking for a new and exciting way to enjoy your eggs? Look no further than the Cambodian Pork Omelette, also known as Pong Mouan Snol. This dish is a perfect balance of fresh ingredients and flavorful meat, providing a subtle and satisfying taste that is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground pork
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup thinly sliced cabbage
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 tsp fish sauce
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp of oil.
2. Add the ground pork and saute until it is no longer pink, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
3. Remove the pork from the pan and set it aside on a platter.
4. Add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil to the skillet and swirl it to coat the surface.
5. Add the sliced onions and cabbage and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are golden and tender.
6. Remove the onions and cabbage from the pan and add them to the platter with the pork.
7. In a small bowl, mix together the fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper.
8. Add the beaten eggs to the skillet and let them set for a few seconds.
9. Using a rubber spatula, push the cooked edges of the omelette towards the center, allowing the uncooked eggs to spread out and cook evenly.
10. When the eggs are almost set, sprinkle the pork, onions, cabbage, and cilantro over one half of the omelette.
11. Carefully fold the other half of the omelette over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
12. Cook for a few more minutes until the omelette is golden and cooked through.
13. Using a spatula, carefully remove the omelette from the skillet and transfer it to a serving platter.
14. Garnish with cilantro sprigs and serve hot.

Nutrition:

This Cambodian Pork Omelette is not only delicious but also provides a balanced mix of nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition information per serving:

• Calories: 345
• Total Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 238mg
• Sodium: 465mg
• Potassium: 416mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 6g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Vitamin A: 7%
• Vitamin C: 17%
• Calcium: 4%
• Iron: 11%

So why not give this Cambodian Pork Omelette a try? It’s a perfect dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and is sure to impress your taste buds with its balanced and flavorful taste.

Omurice: The Japanese Fried Rice Omelette

Omurice is a popular Japanese dish that combines fried rice and omelette. It’s a simple yet delicious dish that is loved by many people. The name “omurice” comes from the combination of “omelette” and “rice.”

How to Make Omurice?

To make omurice, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups of cooked rice
• 2 tbsp of oil
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup of mixed vegetables (optional)
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp of cornstarch
• 1 tsp of soy sauce
• 1 tsp of ketchup
• Ground black pepper to taste

Here’s how to make it:

1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent.
2. Add the mixed vegetables (if using) and stir-fry for a few minutes until they’re cooked.
3. Add the cooked rice to the pan and mix everything together.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with cornstarch, soy sauce, ketchup, and black pepper.
5. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Pour in the egg mixture and let it cook for a few seconds.
6. Using a spatula, gently fold the omelette in half and let it cook for a few more seconds.
7. Slide the omelette onto a plate and spoon the fried rice on top of it.
8. Spread some ketchup on top of the rice and serve.

Substitutes for Ingredients

If you don’t have some of the ingredients, here are some substitutes you can use:

• Instead of mixed vegetables, you can use frozen peas and carrots.
• Instead of soy sauce, you can use tamari or liquid aminos.
• Instead of ketchup, you can use tomato sauce or tomato paste.

Tips for Making the Perfect Omurice

Here are some tips to make sure your omurice turns out fluffy and delicious:

• Make sure to beat the eggs well to make them fluffy.
• Use a non-stick pan to make it easier to remove the omelette.
• When folding the omelette, use a sharp spatula to make sure it doesn’t break.
• Lower the heat when cooking the omelette to prevent it from burning.
• Let the omelette cool for a few minutes before cutting it to make it easier to slice.

Thai Omelette ‘Kai-jiew’: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Dish

Kai-jiew is a popular Thai omelette that is known for its spicy kick. It is a simple dish made with eggs, fish sauce, and a variety of spices and herbs. The dish is typically served with rice and is a staple breakfast food in Thailand.

Recipe for Kai-jiew

Here is a simple recipe for Kai-jiew that serves two people:

Ingredients:

• 4 eggs
• 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon of sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground white pepper
• 2-3 Thai chili peppers, chopped
• 1/4 cup of chopped onion
• 1/4 cup of chopped tomato
• 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Whisk the eggs in a bowl and add fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and white pepper. Mix well.
2. Heat the oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped chili peppers, onion, and tomato to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
4. Pour the egg mixture into the pan and let it cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Flip the omelette and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve hot with rice and garnish with cilantro.

The Spicy and Rich Singapore Fried Oyster Omelette

If you’re a fan of starchy and crispy omelettes with a wonderfully smattering of briny oysters, then the Singapore Fried Oyster Omelette is the perfect choice for you. This blockbuster dish has made its debut in hawker centres all over the island, but the most popular spot is at Newton Circus Food Centre.

The Crazy Waiting Times

Be prepared to wait for this mouth-watering dish as the queue can get crazy during peak hours. On a Tuesday evening, I took my chances and waited for 45 minutes before the buzzer went off. But trust me, it’s worth the wait.

The Generous Serving

The key elements of this dish are the eggs, oysters, and batter mixed with a tangy and sour sauce that balances the taste. The oysters are generously served in the centre of the omelette, and the crispy edges add a wonderful texture to the mushier undertone.

The Spicy Chilli Sauce

For those who like it spicy, the chilli sauce is the key to the perfect bite. The tingling sensation in your mouth goes well with the briny taste of the ocean. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can always ask for the tomato sauce instead.

The Smell and Taste of Singapore

The smell of the omelette cooking on the hot plate is enough to make your mouth water. The taste of the Singapore Fried Oyster Omelette is a perfect representation of the diverse languages and cultures found on the East Coast. The balance of flavours and textures is what makes this dish a must-try for any foodie visiting Singapore.

Conclusion

The Asian continent is full of delicious surprises, and omelets are no exception. You can find so many different types of omelets in Asia, from Thai to Cambodian, Chinese to Japanese.

The Thai omelet is a delicious, savory dish filled with minced pork and fish sauce, while the Cambodian omelet is a hand-filled flour creation with a crisp layer. The Chinese omelet is a quick and easy staple dish, and the Japanese omelet is a rolled omelet called tamagoyaki.

As long as you have eggs, you can make an omelet!

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Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.