Four Ways to Preserve Eggs

Eggs are a versatile and nutrient-rich ingredient that many of us have access to in our backyards - but they have a limited shelf life. To extend their usability and minimize waste, various preservation methods can be utilized. Here we are going to explore four different methods of preserving eggs: freeze drying, freezing, water glassing, and butter covering. Each method offers distinct benefits and can be suitable depending on your needs and resources. We will also provide guidance on how to reconstitute and reuse preserved eggs effectively. Let's dive into the world of egg preservation and unlock the potential of this essential kitchen staple.

1. Freeze Drying Eggs:

Freeze drying is a popular method for long-term egg preservation as it allows eggs to be stored without the need for refrigeration. As you may remember seeing on my instagram page, freeze-drying eggs is quite simple! (Check it out here)

Here's how to freeze dry eggs:

1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and gently beat them until well mixed.

2. Pour the beaten eggs onto the baking sheet with silicone or into the green silicone cubed trays and place them in the freezer until completely frozen.

3. Transfer the frozen eggs to a freeze dryer and follow the freeze dryer’s instructions. (My favorite unit is the Large Freeze dryer with an oil free pump from Harvest Right, but they have a variety of sizes!) This process removes moisture from the eggs while preserving their flavor and nutrients.

To Reconstitute: To use freeze-dried eggs, simply add the desired amount of water to rehydrate them. Use 2 tablespoons of water for every 1 tablespoon of freeze-dried eggs. Let them sit for a few minutes until fully rehydrated before using in recipes.

2. Freezing Eggs:

Freezing is a straightforward method to preserve eggs for a shorter duration. Here's how to freeze eggs:

1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and gently beat them until well mixed.

2. Pour the beaten eggs into ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion.

3. Place the trays or containers in the freezer until the eggs are completely frozen.

To Reuse: Thaw frozen eggs overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water. Once thawed, they can be used in recipes that require cooked or baked eggs.

3. Water Glassing Eggs:

Water glassing, also known as sodium silicate preservation, is a time-tested method for preserving eggs in their natural state. Here's how to water glass eggs:

1. Start with clean, unwashed eggs. THIS IS IMPORTANT - the bloom of the egg must be intact in order for this method to work. Sort and discard any cracked or damaged ones.

2. In a large non-metallic container, mix your water and food grade lime. I use a gallon mason jar. The ratio of water to lime is: every one quart of water you'll use 1 ounce of lime.

3. Gently place the eggs in the water glass solution, ensuring they are fully submerged.

4. Cover the container and store it in a cool, dark place. The eggs can be stored for up to a year using this method.

To Reuse: Before using water-glassed eggs, gently rinse them under cool water to remove the solution. They can then be used in recipes as you would fresh eggs.

4. Butter Covering Eggs

Butter covering is a traditional preservation method that involves coating eggs with butter to create a protective barrier against air and bacteria. Here's how to butter cover eggs:

1. Start with clean, unwashed eggs. Again, this is important - Sort and discard any cracked or damaged ones.

2. Take softened butter and cover the eggs with them - making sure not to miss any spots.

3. Store: Place the butter-covered eggs in a cool and dry container, ensuring they are not touching each other. Store them in a cool, dark place. They can last up to 6 months this way.

To Reuse: To use butter-covered eggs, gently wipe off the butter coating before cracking them. They can then be used in recipes as you would fresh eggs.

Preserving eggs allows you to reduce waste and have a readily available supply of this versatile ingredient. Whether you choose freeze drying, freezing, water glassing, or butter covering, each method offers its own advantages for different storage durations. Properly reconstituting and reusing preserved eggs is key to their successful utilization. By following the recommended guidelines for each preservation method, you can extend the shelf life of eggs and have them on hand whenever needed. Experiment with different preservation techniques to find the one that best suits your needs and enjoy the convenience of preserved eggs in your culinary endeavors.