Tips

The Ultimate Guide to Preserving and Preparing Salted Eggs

Pickled eggs are a versatile ingredient used in a myriad of delicious dishes, from savory pies and mooncakes to stir-fried shrimp with pickled eggs. While the nutrient-rich yolk is usually the star of the show during cooking, improper handling and storage can lead to a rancid, off-putting taste and a shortened shelf life.

Administrator

12 July, 2024

109

Processing Salted Egg Yolks

To begin, carefully separate the eggshells and gently remove the egg whites, keeping the yolks intact. Rinse the yolks under running water to ensure all traces of egg white are gone. Be gentle and use a low water pressure to avoid breaking the delicate yolks.

Soak the eggs in Mai Que Lo wine or vodka for 5 minutes. This step helps eliminate any remaining fishy odor and gives the eggs a beautiful color and a chewy texture when cooked.

Discard the alcohol and place the eggs on a sheet of aluminum foil. Brush the eggs with oil to give them a glossy finish once cooked.

Finally, bake the eggs in the oven for about 7-10 minutes at 125 degrees Celsius. If you don’t have an oven, you can also steam them for 15 minutes. Just make sure to cover the lid with a clean cloth to prevent water droplets from falling onto the eggs.

Storing Salted Eggs

Once cooled, salted eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks if you plan on using them regularly.

If you won’t be using them within this time frame, it’s best to seal them in an airtight bag or container and freeze them. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Do not store salted eggs at room temperature, as the heat can cause the eggs to become oily on the outside while drying out the inside. Under these conditions, they will only last for 1-2 days.

Making Salted Eggs at Home

There are two quick and easy methods for making salted eggs at home.

Method 1:

Step 1: Boil 1.5 liters of water with 300g of salt. Clean the eggs, dry them, and soak them in alcohol for an hour.

Step 2: Place the eggs in a glass jar and add the salted water along with 80ml of alcohol. Seal the jar tightly and leave it in a sunny spot for 4-5 weeks before using.

For more information: how to make them at home

Method 2:

Step 1: Clean and dry the eggs, then roll them in alcohol and salt, making sure the salt coats the eggs evenly.

Step 2: Place the eggs in 2-3 layers of plastic bags, tie them securely, and leave them in a sunny spot for 4-5 weeks before using.

Notes

Store-bought salted eggs often have a strong fishy odor, so it’s important to remove this smell before using them.

When making salted eggs at home, adding ginger, licorice, and fennel can enhance their aroma.

While some dishes may call for using the entire salted egg (both yolk and white), the egg whites tend to be very salty and have lower nutritional value. Therefore, it’s best to use mostly yolks.

For baked goods, such as mooncakes, only use the egg yolks.

Despite their salty flavor, salted eggs add a unique touch to both savory and sweet dishes. However, it’s important to know how to handle and store them properly to avoid any unpleasant fishy odors ruining your creations.

Frequently asked questions

Salted eggs are a popular delicacy in many Asian countries. They are duck or chicken eggs that have been preserved in a brine solution, giving them a salty taste and a longer shelf life. The process of making salted eggs involves soaking the eggs in a mixture of salt, water, and sometimes other spices, then allowing them to dry and age. This results in a unique flavor and texture that is loved by many.

When properly prepared and stored, salted eggs can last for several months. It is best to store them in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard. To extend their shelf life even further, you can refrigerate the eggs after they have been dried and aged.

Yes, you can definitely make salted eggs at home. The process is quite simple but requires some time and patience. You will need eggs (duck or chicken), salt, water, and a container to soak the eggs in. The basic method involves creating a brine solution, soaking the eggs for several days, then drying and aging them for a few weeks to a month.

There are a few variations of salted eggs depending on the region and personal preference. The most common types are the Chinese-style salted eggs, which are usually made with duck eggs and have a stronger salty flavor, and the Indonesian-style salted eggs (telur asin), which are often made with chicken eggs and have a milder taste. Some recipes also add additional spices like peppercorns or five-spice powder to the brine for a more complex flavor.

Salted eggs are commonly used in Asian cuisine, particularly in dishes like fried rice, congee, or stir-fries. They can be used as a flavor enhancer or as a main ingredient. When cooking with salted eggs, remember that a little goes a long way due to their strong flavor. You can find many recipes online that specifically use salted eggs, such as salted egg crab, salted egg yolk chicken, or even desserts like salted egg lava cake.

Salted eggs offer a unique flavor and texture that is loved by many. They can be a good source of protein and minerals, and the preservation process can extend their shelf life. However, due to the high salt content, they should be consumed in moderation, especially for those watching their sodium intake. Additionally, proper preparation and storage are important to prevent foodborne illnesses.