The Asian Larder

Where to Buy Century Eggs in the UK

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Century eggs are a specialist item, so you will usually need a Chinese grocer or an online order rather than a mainstream supermarket.

Which aisle are century eggs in?

Mainstream UK supermarkets rarely stock century eggs, so they are not found in a standard aisle. Chinese and East Asian grocers keep them refrigerated or with other preserved eggs.

Where to look, supermarket by supermarket

  1. Chinese grocers. Usually sold individually or in packs of a few, kept refrigerated or in a cool, dry section.
  2. Larger Asian supermarkets sometimes stock them shelf-stable in clay-coated form.

Aisle numbers move between branches, so use the section as your guide.

Are century eggs sold in Tesco?

No, century eggs are not a mainstream UK supermarket item. A Chinese or East Asian grocer, or an online specialist, is the reliable route.

What to ask a member of staff

Ask for century eggs, pidan or preserved eggs, since all three names are used depending on the shop.

Asian supermarkets

A Chinese grocer is by far the most reliable source, usually selling them individually so you can buy just what you need.

Buying it online

Online is a practical option if you do not have a Chinese grocer nearby, since they keep well and post safely.

Storing it

Unopened, keep at room temperature as sold. Once shelled, use within a day or two and keep refrigerated.

Frequently asked questions

Are century eggs safe to eat?

Yes, they are a traditional preserved food using alkaline ingredients, not a spoiled product.

How long do century eggs keep unopened?

Several weeks to a few months at room temperature, depending on the preservation method, check the packaging for guidance.

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  • Century eggs. Ready-preserved, for congee or as a cold starter.
Huì

Huì

Huì is a Beijing-born chef working in the UK. She writes The Asian Larder, with tested Asian recipes for British home cooks and honest advice on where to buy every ingredient.
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