Parameters
Temperature
7°C optimal
4°C to 10°C range
Refrigeration temperature range for optimal preservation
Time
14 days
7 days – 30 days
Equipment
Clay potSaltWater
Sensory Profile
Aroma ()
SulfurousTangyUmami
Compounds: Sulfur compounds, Lactic acid
Taste
UmamiSalty
Texture
CreamyFirm
Wine Analogy
Similar complexity to aged sherry with oxidative notes
Coffee Analogy
Intensity akin to dark roasted Sumatran coffee
Perfume Analogy
Animalic base notes reminiscent of civet in traditional perfumery
Origin & History
Civilization
Han Chinese
Era
Ming dynasty
Region
Jiangsu and Zhejiang
Spread Path
Silk Road trade routes → Maritime trade routes
Culinary Applications
Century Egg CongeeGuangdong, ChinaProvides umami depth and textural contrast to the rice porridge
Pidan TofuShanghai, ChinaEgg yolk emulsifies with tofu creating creamy texture
Yuk Sung DanKorean-Chinese cuisineCured egg white adds salty-savory notes to minced pork filling