Eggs are a staple in most households. They are versatile, nutritious, and delicious. While we are all familiar with the traditional methods of cooking eggs, such as frying, scrambling, or boiling, there are many other creative and unconventional uses for eggs that you may not be aware of. In this article, we will explore 15 damn cool things you can do with eggs that go beyond the usual culinary applications.
- Put an Egg in a Glass of Water to See if It’s Still Good or Not
Have you ever wondered if an egg is still fresh or if it has gone bad? Instead of relying on expiration dates alone, you can perform a simple test using a glass of water. Fill a glass with water and gently place the egg in it. If the egg sinks to the bottom and lays flat on its side, it’s fresh. If it stands upright on the bottom, it’s still good but not as fresh. If it floats to the top, it’s best to discard it as it has gone bad.
- Use an Eggshell to Remove Smaller Shell Pieces Out of a Cracked Egg
We’ve all been there—cracking an egg and ending up with tiny shell fragments in the bowl. Removing those pieces can be frustrating, but there’s a simple solution. Wet your finger and gently touch the broken shell. The water will help the shell piece adhere to your finger, making it easy to remove.
- There’s No Regulation on What a ‘Natural’ Label for Eggs Really Means
When shopping for eggs, you might come across cartons labeled as “natural.” However, it’s important to note that the term “natural” does not have a regulated definition when it comes to eggs. It can vary from one brand to another, so it’s best to do your research or opt for certified organic or free-range eggs if you prefer a more specific standard.
- Eggshells Are a Great Addition to Your Compost Pile
Don’t toss those eggshells in the trash! Eggshells can be a valuable addition to your compost pile. They are rich in calcium and other minerals, which can benefit your garden soil. Crush the eggshells into small pieces before adding them to your compost, as this will help them break down more easily.
- You Can Add Eggs to Almost Any of Your Leftovers to Make Them Even Better
Leftovers often lack the moisture and cohesiveness they had when freshly cooked. Adding a beaten egg or two can work wonders in transforming those leftovers into a delicious meal. From fried rice to pasta dishes, casseroles, and stir-fries, eggs can help bind the ingredients together and add a lovely texture.
- Use a Water Bottle or Turkey Baster to Separate Egg Yolks from Egg Whites
Separating egg yolks from whites can be a daunting task, especially if you don’t have a fancy kitchen gadget. But fear not, a water bottle or a turkey baster can come to your rescue. Gently squeeze the bottle or baster, place the opening near the yolk, and release. The vacuum created will suck up the yolk, leaving the whites behind.
- Put Your Eggs in Warm Water for 5-7 Minutes to Bring Them to Room Temperature
Room temperature eggs are often preferred in baking because they incorporate more easily with other ingredients, resulting in better-textured baked goods. If you forgot to take your eggs out of the fridge in advance, don’t worry. Place them in a bowl of warm water for 5-7 minutes, and they will quickly reach room temperature.
- Use a Mug to Make Egg Salad
Making egg salad just got easier. Instead of dirtying a mixing bowl, use a coffee mug. Simply chop or mash the hard-boiled eggs directly in the mug, add your desired ingredients like mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings, and mix everything together. This not only saves you from washing extra dishes but also allows for easy portion control.
- You Can Use a Potato Ricer for Egg Salads, Too
If you want to take your egg salad game to the next level, try using a potato ricer. After mashing the hard-boiled eggs, pass them through the ricer to achieve a finer and fluffier texture. This technique ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed and results in an even creamier egg salad.
- Better Yet, Use a Cooling Rack
If you find yourself needing to peel multiple hard-boiled eggs at once, consider using a cooling rack. Place the eggs on the rack and gently roll them back and forth. The shells will crack and loosen, making them easier to peel. This method saves time and reduces frustration compared to peeling eggs one by one.
- Freeze Your Eggs Before They Go Bad So You Can Use Them Later
If you have eggs that are nearing their expiration date and you don’t have immediate plans to use them, freezing is a great option. Crack the eggs into a bowl, beat them lightly, and transfer them to an airtight container or an ice cube tray. Label the container with the number of eggs and the date. Frozen eggs can be stored for up to a year and are perfect for future baking or cooking needs.
- Know a Friend Allergic to Eggs? Substitute Eggs in Your Recipe With…
If you or someone you know has an egg allergy or follows a vegan lifestyle, there are several effective egg substitutes you can use in recipes. Some popular options include mashed bananas, applesauce, silken tofu, flaxseed meal mixed with water, or commercial egg replacers. Each substitute has its own unique properties and may work better in specific recipes, so it’s essential to experiment and find the best one for your needs.
- Use a Thin Thread to Slice Your Egg in Half for Beautiful Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic party favorite, but slicing them neatly in half can be challenging. To achieve clean and precise cuts, use a thin thread. Place the thread across the center of the egg, cross the ends, and pull gently in opposite directions. The thread will glide through the egg, resulting in two perfectly halved halves.
- Avoid the Greenish Tint Around Your Yolk by Avoiding a Rolling Boil
Have you ever noticed a greenish-gray ring around the yolk of hard-boiled eggs? This discoloration is harmless but not particularly appealing. To prevent it, avoid boiling the eggs too vigorously. Instead, bring the water to a gentle simmer and cook the eggs for the desired time. This gentle method minimizes the occurrence of the greenish tint.
- Want to Make More Than Egg Salad? Brûlée Your Hard-Boiled Eggs
If you want to impress your guests or add a unique twist to your recipes, try brûléeing hard-boiled eggs. Sprinkle the halved eggs with a thin layer of sugar and use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it forms a crisp, golden crust. The result is a deliciously sweet and savory treat that can elevate salads, appetizers, or even desserts.
Final Thoughts:
Eggs are undoubtedly incredible ingredients that offer endless possibilities in the kitchen. From determining their freshness to using them as effective cleaning tools or incorporating them into creative dishes, eggs prove to be more versatile than we often realize. So, the next time you crack open an egg, remember that it holds more potential than meets the eye. Explore these damn cool things you can do with eggs and unlock a world of culinary and practical delights.