5 Easy Pickled Egg Recipes You'll Love

Love it or hate it, pickled eggs are a staple in many households, especially for those who appreciate the tangy, spicy, or sweet flavors that pickling can bring to this humble snack. Not only do pickled eggs have a fascinating history tracing back to the time when refrigeration wasn't the norm, but they also offer a practical way to extend the shelf life of eggs. Here, we delve into five easy pickled egg recipes that you'll love, offering both traditional and creative variations to suit your palate.

Why Pickle Eggs?

Pickling eggs can elevate this kitchen staple into something gourmet:

• Preserves Freshness: Pickling extends the shelf life of eggs, especially when done correctly.
• Flavour Experimentation: Allows for the infusion of various flavors, from sweet to spicy, creating a unique taste.
• Nutritional Benefits: Pickled eggs retain much of their original nutritional content, packed with protein.
• Convenience: Perfect for on-the-go snacks or as a side dish.

1. Classic Dill Pickled Eggs

Dill pickles often inspire traditional pickled eggs. Here’s how you can recreate the classic dill pickled eggs:

• Ingredients: 12 hard-boiled eggs, 2 cups white vinegar, 2 cups water, 1 tablespoon pickling salt, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 tablespoon dill seeds, 1 teaspoon mustard seeds, 4 garlic cloves (sliced), 2 bay leaves.
• Method:
  1. Boil and peel the eggs.
  2. In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, salt, and sugar, bring to a boil, then add dill seeds, mustard seeds, garlic, and bay leaves.
  3. Let the mixture steep for a few minutes, then cool slightly.
  4. Fill sterilized jars with eggs and pour the pickling brine over them.
  5. Seal and refrigerate for at least a week before consuming.

📝 Note: Always sterilize your jars before use to ensure a safe pickling process and to extend shelf life.

2. Spicy Pickled Eggs with Jalapeno

For those who crave a bit of heat, this spicy pickled egg recipe is a must-try:

• Ingredients: 12 hard-boiled eggs, 1 cup white vinegar, 1 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 cup water, 1 tablespoon pickling salt, 2 tablespoons sugar, 2 jalapenos (sliced), 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes, 2 garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon peppercorns.
• Method:
  1. Boil and peel eggs.
  2. Combine vinegars, water, salt, and sugar in a saucepan, and bring to a boil. Add jalapenos, pepper flakes, garlic, and peppercorns.
  3. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to infuse flavors.
  4. Pack the eggs into jars, pour the spicy brine over them, seal, and chill for a minimum of 1 week.

3. Beetroot and Onion Pickled Eggs

This recipe gives your eggs a vibrant pink hue and a unique, sweet and sour taste:

• Ingredients: 12 hard-boiled eggs, 1 cup beet juice, 1 cup cider vinegar, 1 cup water, ¹⁄₂ cup sugar, ¹⁄₂ cup sliced onions, 1 tablespoon pickling salt, 2 bay leaves, 1 cinnamon stick.
• Method:
  1. Boil and peel eggs.
  2. Combine all ingredients except eggs in a pot and simmer until onions soften.
  3. Pour the beet mixture over the eggs in jars, ensuring they’re fully submerged.
  4. Seal and let them rest in the fridge for at least 3 days.

4. Mustard Pickled Eggs

A variation that offers a tangy, savory flavor:

• Ingredients: 12 hard-boiled eggs, 2 cups apple cider vinegar, 2 cups water, 1 tablespoon pickling salt, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 tablespoon whole mustard seeds, 2 teaspoons turmeric, 1 teaspoon peppercorns, 1 teaspoon celery seeds.
• Method:
  1. Boil and peel eggs.
  2. Combine vinegar, water, salt, sugar, and spices in a saucepan. Simmer until the salt and sugar dissolve.
  3. Cool the mixture slightly before pouring over the eggs in jars.
  4. Allow to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating for 2-3 weeks for best results.

5. Sweet and Sour Pickled Eggs

Perfect for those with a sweet tooth:

• Ingredients: 12 hard-boiled eggs, 1 cup white vinegar, 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon pickling salt, 1 sliced onion, ¹⁄₂ cup raisins, 1 cinnamon stick, 4 cloves.
• Method:
  1. Boil and peel eggs.
  2. Mix all ingredients except eggs in a saucepan, bring to a boil, and simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. Place eggs in sterilized jars, pour over the sweet and sour brine.
  4. Cool, seal, and let them marinate in the fridge for 2 days before enjoying.

Pickled eggs not only offer a delightful mix of flavors but also open a world of culinary possibilities. From traditional recipes that have stood the test of time to innovative twists on the classic, these recipes provide a diverse range of flavors, ensuring there's something for every palate. They're perfect for a quick snack, an unexpected appetizer, or as an addition to your charcuterie board. Remember, the quality of your eggs will greatly influence the final product, so always use fresh eggs.

How Long Do Pickled Eggs Last?

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Pickled eggs can last up to 4 months in the refrigerator. However, for the best flavor, consume within 3 months.

Are Pickled Eggs Safe to Eat?

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Yes, if prepared and stored correctly. Use clean, sterilized jars, follow recipes accurately, and store in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.

Can I Reuse Pickling Brine?

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It’s not recommended to reuse the same brine for pickling eggs more than once due to potential bacterial growth. You can, however, strain and boil the brine to use for other pickling projects.

Why Did My Pickled Eggs Turn Cloudy?

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Cloudiness can result from several factors like using hard water, not sterilizing the jars properly, or egg shell remnants in the brine. Use filtered water and ensure cleanliness for clear pickled eggs.