31 Ways To Preserve Eggs

With 31 different ways to preserve eggs, there’s a method suitable for everyone, whether you have chickens in your backyard or simply want to make the most of the eggs available at your local market.

When you raise chickens, it’s either feast or famine with egg production. In the warmer months, we are busting at the seams with eggs. In the colder months we are beggin our girls to lay an egg so we can cook breakfast.

Preserve your hens eggs when they are in prime egg production. Follow our guide with over 31 ways to preserve eggs so you’ll have eggs all season long.

Preserving eggs has been a practice for centuries, ensuring that households have a nutritious option even when fresh eggs aren’t readily available.

In our modern times, preserving techniques have evolved, offering a variety of options to choose from. Some people prefer freezing eggs, while others may choose to pickle them or even turn them into a delicious egg pasta.

No matter your preference, our guide will offer diverse and tested methods for extending the shelf life of this versatile ingredient.

31 Ways To Preserve Eggs: Your Go-To Guide for Longevity and Tastiness

Join us as we explore various preservation techniques that you can easily implement in your own kitchen. We’ll discuss traditional approaches as well as innovative methods to ensure that you always have eggs on hand, ready to use in your favorite recipes.

So let’s dive into this egg-citing journey together and learn about the many ways we can preserve eggs for later use.

See complete list of all the 31 different ways to preserve eggs below.

Basic Egg Preservation Techniques

In this section, we will discuss some basic egg preservation techniques that can help you store eggs for a longer period.

We will cover methods such as water glassing, mineral oil coating, freezing, dehydrating, pickling, and canning.

Fresh eggs are best to use for long term storage. It doesn’t matter if they are white eggs, brown eggs, or blue, as long as they’re fresh.

Water Glassing Eggs

Water glassing is an old-fashioned method of preserving eggs. It’s also known as egg glassing or sodium silicate preservation, is a method of preserving eggs for an extended period by submerging them in a solution of water glass or sodium silicate.

Water glass is an alkaline solution made from sodium silicate compounds.

• To use this technique, we carefully place unwashed eggs in a jar.
• Create a solution of lime and water at a ratio of 1 ounce of powder to 1 quart of water.
• We pour the solution over the eggs, ensuring at least 2 inches of liquid covering them.
• Seal the container with a tight-fitting lid.
• It’s best to store the container in a cool, dark place for anywhere between 1 to 2 years.

Preserving Eggs With A Mineral Oil Coating

Another way to preserve eggs is coating them with mineral oil.

• To do this, we simply rub food-grade mineral oil over clean eggs, making sure to cover the entire surface of each egg.
• Then, we store the eggs in a cool, dark place.

This method can help extend the shelf life of eggs for several months.

Freezing Eggs

Freezing eggs is one of the easiest methods of preservation.

• To freeze eggs, we lightly scramble them in a bowl and pour the mixture into ice cube trays.
• After freezing, we transfer the egg cubes to airtight containers and store them in the freezer.
• Frozen eggs can be good for up to a year.

Dehydrating Eggs

Dehydrating eggs is also an option for preserving eggs.

• For this method, we first scramble the eggs and cook them until they are fully done.
• We then spread the cooked eggs on dehydrator trays and dry them at 145°F for about 4 hours or until they are brittle.
• Once dried, we store the dehydrated eggs in airtight containers in a cool, dark place.

Pickling

Pickling is a popular method to preserve eggs for an extended period. They are a classic staple at most southern convenience stores.

We hard-boil the eggs, peel them, and then place them in a jar with a pickling solution made from vinegar, water, salt, and spices.

We make sure the eggs are completely submerged in the solution and store the jar in the refrigerator. Pickled eggs can last for several months source.

Canning

Canning is another method to preserve eggs. We can preserve eggs by making dishes like lemon curd, which can be safely canned. To can lemon curd, we prepare the recipe and place it in sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace. We then process the jars in a water bath canner to create a vacuum seal, which ensures a long shelf life source.

Factors Affecting Egg Preservation

Temperature

When it comes to preserving eggs, temperature plays a crucial role. Eggs should be kept at a cool, consistent temperature to maintain their freshness.

We found that storing eggs at around 35-40°F (2-4°C) can significantly extend their shelf life. When temperatures fluctuate, it can cause condensation and increase the risk of bacterial growth.

It’s important to always transfer eggs from a colder to a warmer environment gradually to avoid sudden temperature changes.

Humidity

Humidity is another factor that affects the preservation of eggs. Eggs lose moisture through their porous shells, and the rate of moisture loss depends on the humidity levels in their storage environment.

Ideal humidity levels for egg storage are around 75%-85%. High humidity reduces moisture loss and helps preserve the egg’s quality, while low humidity can cause eggs to dry out and spoil faster.

Consider using a hygrometer to measure and monitor the humidity levels in your egg storage area.

Storage Conditions

Storage conditions also play a huge part in preserving eggs. It’s essential to store eggs in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated area. Keep them away from direct sunlight, strong odors, and any potential contaminants.

Moreover, storing eggs in an airtight container is known to be effective in preserving their freshness. It’s crucial to minimize contact between eggs and any potentially harmful substances, as bacteria can permeate the eggshell and spoil the contents.

Egg Freshness

Lastly, the freshness of an egg when it is collected affects how long it will last during preservation. The fresher the egg, the longer it can be preserved.

To maximize shelf life, it’s best to start preserving eggs as soon as possible after they’re laid. Fresh eggs have a natural protective coating called the “bloom” or “cuticle” that seals the pores on the shell and reduces the risk of bacterial contamination.

Once eggs have been washed, the bloom is removed, so it’s best to store unwashed eggs and clean them just before use.

Alternative Preservation Methods

In this section, we’ll explore some less common, but still effective, methods for preserving eggs: smoking, curing, and fermenting.

These techniques offer unique flavors and textures that can add variety to your egg consumption.

Smoking

Smoking eggs is an interesting way to impart a smoky flavor while helping to preserve them.

• To begin, gently hard boil the eggs, then peel the shells once they’ve cooled.
• Place the peeled eggs in a smoker, keeping the temperature low, around 200°F, and smoke for about 2 hours.
• The smoked eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Enjoy them as a tasty snack or in salads and sandwiches.

Curing

Curing is another method we can use to preserve eggs. One popular variation is salt-cured egg yolks.

• To do this, mix equal parts sugar and salt, then create small wells in the mixture for the yolks to rest.
• Separate the yolks from the whites, placing each yolk carefully in its own well.
• Cover the yolks with more of the sugar-salt mixture and let them cure in the refrigerator for about a week.
• After this time, gently brush off the excess cure and air dry the yolks for another week.
• The final product can be grated over pasta, salads, or even used as a topping for soups.

Preserving Eggs In Salt

Preserving eggs in salt is a traditional method that has been used for centuries to keep eggs fresh for longer periods of time. Here’s how you can preserve eggs in salt:

1. Start by mixing together enough salt and water to create a brine solution. You will need about 1 pound of salt for every dozen eggs.
2. Place a layer of salt in the bottom of a container that has a tight-fitting lid. Then, carefully place the eggs on top of the salt, making sure they are not touching each other.
3. Pour the brine solution over the eggs until they are completely covered. You may need to weigh the eggs down with a plate or other heavy object to keep them submerged.
4. Seal the container with a tight-fitting lid and store it in a cool, dry place. The eggs will absorb the salt and will be preserved for several weeks or even months, depending on the temperature and humidity of the storage area.
5. To use the preserved eggs, simply remove them from the salt and rinse them off with water before cracking them open. The eggs may be slightly salty, so you may need to adjust the seasoning in your recipe accordingly.

Fermenting

Fermenting is a lesser-known but intriguing way to preserve eggs. One method is to make soy sauce-marinated eggs called “shoyu tamago.”

• Start by boiling your eggs to your desired consistency, then peel them.
• In a separate bowl, mix soy sauce, water, sugar, and mirin to create a marinade.
• Add the eggs, ensuring they are fully submerged in the liquid, and leave them to marinate for at least 8 hours in the refrigerator.
• The resulting eggs have a delicious, umami-rich flavor that’s perfect for a quick snack, on top of ramen, or sliced in sandwiches.

How To Preserve Eggs In Sugar

Preserving eggs in sugar is another traditional method that has been used for centuries to keep eggs fresh for longer periods of time.

It is possible to preserve whole eggs in sugar, but it is not a common method. The sugar syrup needs to be able to penetrate the eggshell to preserve the egg, which can be difficult to achieve with a whole egg.

As a result, most recipes for preserving eggs in sugar call for just the egg yolks. This allows the sugar syrup to fully penetrate the egg and preserve it.

If you want to try preserving whole eggs in sugar, you will need to use a sugar syrup that is very concentrated and has a low water content. This will help the sugar syrup to penetrate the eggshell more easily.

Here’s how you can preserve eggs in sugar:

1. Start by mixing together enough sugar and water to create a syrup solution. You will need about 2 pounds of sugar for every dozen eggs.
2. Place a layer of sugar in the bottom of a container that has a tight-fitting lid. Then, carefully place the eggs on top of the sugar, making sure they are not touching each other.
3. Pour the syrup solution over the eggs until they are completely covered. You may need to weigh the eggs down with a plate or other heavy object to keep them submerged.
4. Seal the container with a tight-fitting lid and store it in a cool, dry place. The eggs will absorb the sugar and will be preserved for several weeks or even months, depending on the temperature and humidity of the storage area.
5. To use the preserved eggs, simply remove them from the sugar syrup and rinse them off with water before cracking them open. The eggs may be slightly sweet, so you may need to adjust the seasoning in your recipe accordingly.

By implementing these alternative preservation methods, we can expand our culinary options and enjoy eggs in new and exciting ways.

Eggshell Preservation

Eggshells can be preserved in various ways for numerous applications. In this section, we will cover the processes of blanching, crushing and baking, and making eggshell powder.

Blanching

One way to preserve eggshells is by blanching them. This process involves boiling the shells for a few minutes to remove any residue and bacteria, followed by draining and rinsing with cold water.

By blanching the shells, we are able to extend their shelf life and prepare them for further use, such as in gardening or crafts.

Crushing and Baking

Another method of preserving eggshells is by crushing and baking them.

1. To do this, first rinse the shells to remove any residue, then crush them with a rolling pin or your hands.
2. Once the shells are crushed, spread them out on a baking sheet and place them in an oven preheated to 200°F (93°C).
3. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the shells are completely dry and brittle.
4. After baking, store the crushed eggshells in an airtight container for future use, like as a calcium supplement for plants, an abrasive cleaner, or a natural pest deterrent.

Eggshell Powder

Lastly, we can create eggshell powder, which has several practical applications, including as a dietary supplement for humans and pets or as an ingredient in DIY beauty products.

1. To make eggshell powder, follow the crushing and baking method mentioned above.
2. Once the shells are baked and completely dry, use a blender, coffee grinder, or food processor to grind the crushed eggshells into a fine powder.
3. Store the eggshell powder in an airtight container and use it as needed.

Uses For Eggshells

Discover a comprehensive article highlighting over 33 ingenious ways to make use of eggshells in your everyday life.

From culinary applications to gardening hacks, cleaning solutions, and beauty remedies, our article, 33 Uses for Eggshells, provides a wealth of creative ideas to maximize the potential of this common household item.

Using Preserved Eggs in Recipes

Preserving eggs is a fantastic way to ensure we have a constant supply of this versatile ingredient. Once we’ve preserved our eggs using various methods such as pickling, freezing, or salt curing, we can use them in an array of delicious recipes. In this section, we’ll explore some tasty ways to use preserved eggs.

Quiches

Quiches are excellent for showcasing our preserved eggs. Whether we’re using whole pickled eggs or frozen scrambled eggs, they easily adapt to a variety of flavor combinations.

We can mix and match our favorite vegetables, cheeses, and meats, creating delectable dishes like spinach and feta quiche or ham and cheddar quiche.

My favorite is our Sweet Potato Quiche we make every summer.

Casseroles

Casseroles are another great option for incorporating preserved eggs. If we opt for frozen or salt-cured eggs, they work beautifully in dishes like breakfast egg bakes and cheesy potato casseroles.

We can get creative with our casserole ingredients, using different meats, veggies, and cheese combinations to keep our meals exciting.

Deviled Eggs

For a classic appetizer, let’s try using our pickled eggs to make deviled eggs. The tangy flavor from the pickled eggs adds an extra layer of depth to this well-loved dish.

Simply slice the pickled eggs in half, scoop out the yolks, and mix with mayo, mustard, and seasonings; then, spoon the mixture back into the egg whites and enjoy!

Baking

Our preserved eggs won’t let us down when it comes to our baking endeavors, too.

Frozen or dried eggs can replace their fresh counterparts in many of our favorite recipes, such as cookies, cakes, and bread.

By using preserved eggs, we ensure our baked goods maintain their moist and tender textures, just like when we bake with fresh eggs.

Preserving Exotic Eggs

When it comes to preserving eggs, most people think of chicken eggs. But there are many other types of eggs that can be preserved too! In this section, we will explore the ways to preserve quail, duck, goose, and turkey eggs.

Quail

Quail eggs are smaller than chicken eggs, making them perfect for preserving as bite-sized treats. One popular way to preserve quail eggs is by pickling them.

You can pickle quail eggs by boiling them for 4 minutes, peeling them, and then submerging them in a vinegar-based pickling solution. Store them in a cool, dark place for a minimum of two weeks to allow the pickling flavors to infuse. Check out this guide for more details on pickling eggs.

Duck

Duck eggs have a richer taste compared to chicken eggs, making them ideal for preserving in various ways.

Did you know that you can freeze duck eggs? Lightly scramble the eggs and pour them into ice cube trays for easy portioning.

Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe container for long-term storage. The Purposeful Pantry offers more tips on freezing eggs.

Goose

Preserving goose eggs can be a rewarding experience due to their large size and full flavor. A simple method to extend the shelf life of goose eggs is by immersing them in a water-glass solution.

• To create this solution, mix 11 parts water to 1 part sodium silicate.
• Clean the eggs, and then submerge them in the solution and store in a cool, dark place.

Turkey

Turkey eggs, slightly larger than chicken eggs, can also be preserved using the water-glass solution method mentioned above in the Goose section. Additionally, consider trying your hand at making salt-cured egg yolks!

• To do this, bury the egg yolks in a 50/50 mixture of salt and sugar, and let them dry for several days before using or storing.

As you can see, there are many ways to preserve all sorts of different types of eggs. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try these different preservation techniques for various exotic eggs!

Common Mistakes and Remedies When Preserving Eggs

When it comes to preserving eggs, sometimes things can go wrong. In this section, we’ll talk about common mistakes and how to remedy them. We’ll cover overcoming freezer burn, fixing improper sealing, and handling cracked eggs. Let’s dive right in.

Overcoming Freezer Burn

Freezer burn can be a real annoyance when preserving eggs. It occurs when moisture from the eggs evaporates and leaves them dehydrated, resulting in that unwanted icy texture. Here’s what we can do to prevent it:

• Use an ice cube tray with a lid to minimize exposure to air.
• Wrap individual trays in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before storing them in the freezer.
• Limit the amount of time the eggs spend at room temperature before freezing.

If your eggs end up with freezer burn, don’t worry; they’re still safe to eat. Just be prepared for a slightly altered texture and flavor.

Fixing Improper Sealing

If your eggs are stored in an airtight container or jar and the seal isn’t quite right, it can affect their freshness and longevity. To remedy this, follow these steps:

1. Check the container or jar lid for any damage or warping. If you find any, replace it with a new one.
2. Make sure the rim of the jar or container is clean and free of any egg residue before sealing.
3. When using a vacuum sealer, ensure you have a good seal by double-checking the instructions and adjusting the settings if necessary.

Once you’ve fixed the issue, your eggs should be better protected and more likely to last longer.

Handling Cracked Eggs

Accidents happen, and sometimes eggs get cracked during preservation. If you notice a cracked egg, don’t worry – there are still ways to save it:

• If the crack is small, use food-safe wax or a similar sealing method to cover the crack and prevent bacteria from entering.
• For larger cracks, go ahead and cook the egg right away. You can then freeze or store the cooked egg in a suitable container for later use.

By addressing these common mistakes, we can ensure our preserved eggs stay fresh, safe, and delicious for as long as possible.

Best Practices and Tips

Preserving eggs is a great way to keep them fresh and extend their shelf life. We’ve gathered a few helpful best practices and tips to make the preservation process easier for you.

• First, always start with fresh, clean eggs. The cleaner the eggs, the longer they’ll last during storage. Next, be gentle when handling eggs as they can crack easily under pressure, compromising their freshness.

• For freezing eggs, we recommend cracking them into a bowl and lightly scrambling them before pouring them into an ice cube tray or a muffin tray. This method lets you easily defrost individual portions when needed, without wasting any eggs. A handy tip we found is to lightly spray the tray with non-stick oil to make the frozen eggs easier to remove (source: The Foods Guy).

• If you’re interested in pickling your eggs, make sure to sterilize the jar before adding the eggs and pickling solution. This will help ensure that your pickled eggs stay fresh and safe to eat for an extended period of time.

• When storing eggs at room temperature, try coating them in a thin layer of mineral oil to seal the pores of their shells. This creates a barrier that keeps the eggs fresh for a longer time.

Lastly, it’s important to monitor the freshness of your preserved eggs regularly. If you notice any off smells or signs of spoilage, discard the eggs immediately to prevent consuming bad ones.

We hope these tips and best practices help you preserve your eggs effectively while maintaining their high quality and freshness. Happy egg-preserving!

31 Different Ways To Preserve Eggs

Below is a comprehensive list of different ways you can preserve eggs. Some you may be familar with, some may be a whole new concept for you.

1. Pickling (information above)
2. Freezing (whole or separated) How-to listed above.
3. Water Glassing (using sodium silicate solution). Details above.
4. Oil Packing
5. Dehydrating (creating powdered or crystalized eggs)
6. Salt Curing. How-to listed above.
7. Alcohol Preservation
8. Lye Treatment
9. Wax Coating
10. Sugar Coating
11. Vinegar Soaking
12. Smoking
13. Drying and Salting
14. Fermenting
15. Pressure Canning (with or without additives)
16. Preserving in Honey
17. Vacuum Sealing
18. Potting in Butter or Ghee
19. Nitrogen Packing
20. Coating with Mineral Oil
21. Freeze Drying
22. Carbon Dioxide Packing
23. Submerging in Brine Solution
24. Preserving in Alcohol-based Syrup
25. Sous Vide Preservation
26. Carbonating (creating carbonated eggs)
27. Baking and Preserving in Clay- also called Century Eggs
28. Encasing in Jello or Gelatin
29. Infusing with Herbs or Spices
30. Packaging in Wax Paper or Foil
31. Immersing in Vegetable Oil

Ways To Preserve Eggs For The Future

In our journey to discover ways to preserve eggs, we’ve found that there are several methods to extend their shelf life. By using these techniques, not only can we enjoy eggs all-year round, but we can also make the most of their nutritional value.

Preserving methods like freezing, pickling, and curing have proven to be effective in maintaining the taste and quality of the eggs.

Additionally, storage techniques such as coating with oil or beeswax, and dehydrating also work well in keeping the eggs fresh for longer periods.

While experimenting with these methods, we noticed that factors like the initial freshness of the eggs and the preservation method’s efficiency can impact the final outcome.

In the end, the versatility of the preservation methods allows us to cater to our preferences and needs.

From whipping up a quick omelette with frozen eggs to indulging in a gourmet meal with cured yolks, these techniques have opened up a world of possibilities for us.

So, let’s cherish our lovely hens and their eggs and continue exploring more ways to preserve their valuable gifts.

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