**Ancient Folk Dietary Foundations in China**
The consumption of eggs in China dates back millennia, with chicken eggs being a staple ingredient. In ancient times, when resources were relatively scarce, people mastered simple cooking methods to transform eggs into delicious dishes. Recipes like **steamed egg custard** (鸡蛋羹), for instance, have been passed down through generations. By steaming beaten eggs with water and seasonings, ancient households created a silky, tender dish that became a common comfort food. Its smooth texture, nutritional value, and universal appeal across age groups ensured its enduring popularity.
**Evolution in Traditional Cuisines**
China’s regional culinary traditions have long celebrated the delicate texture of eggs. Cantonese cuisine, for example, features classics like **stir-fried shrimp with silky eggs** (滑蛋虾仁) and **beef with silky eggs** (滑蛋牛肉), which emphasize fresh ingredients and precise t…