Traditional Chinese Tea Eggs

Instructions

1. 1

   Place the eggs in a pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

2. 2

   Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the eggs simmer for 10 minutes.

3. 3

   Remove the eggs from the pot and let them cool under cold running water. Once cooled, gently crack the shells with the back of a spoon.

4. 4

   In the same pot, add 4 cups of water, soy sauce, black tea leaves, cinnamon stick, star anise, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.

5. 5

   Reduce the heat to low and add the cracked eggs back into the pot. Simmer for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to infuse into the eggs.

6. 6

   For a stronger flavor, let the eggs steep in the liquid for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

7. 7

   Once ready, peel the eggs and serve them warm or cold as desired.