Letβs talk about something eggstra special this Easter... the eggs themselves! π₯β¨
My chickens are finally producing eggs again just in time for us to make our Passover Seder meal (yes we are late this year due to me being out of town) and Easter dinner. I love to make pickled eggs and eat them as a snack, quick breakfast or eggs salad wraps or sandwiches. I put pickled eggs in half gallon jars for easy access and to store a lot (egg crisis isn't an issue when you have your own eggs stored and chickens producing). This week, I even had some pickled eggs that I made last spring.
If you've ever cracked open a farm-fresh egg from your backyard chickens, you knowβthereβs just no comparison.
π³ Home-Raised Eggs vs. Store-Bought
- Yolk Color & Nutrients: Deep orange yolks = higher in omega-3s, vitamin D, and antioxidants.
- Taste: Richer, creamier, more flavorful.
- Freshness: Straight from the coop = peak nutrition (store eggs can be up to 6+ weeks old!).
- Control: You know what your chickens are eating and what are on their eggs (no detergents or cleaners) ππΏ = better for your body.
π¦ Duck Eggs vs. Chicken Eggs
- Size: Duck eggs are larger and creamier.
- Protein: Slightly higherβgreat for baking or boosting nutrition.
- Allergy Tip: Some people allergic to chicken eggs can eat duck eggs with no issue!
- Flavor: Richer and more intenseβsome love it, some prefer chicken eggs.
In the U.S., commercial eggs are washed and sanitized before being soldβbut the process is more intense than most people realize. Hereβs what happens:
π§Ό Whatβs put on store-bought eggs?
- Detergents or degreasers β Used to remove dirt, feathers, and bacteria. These are often alkaline and can strip the egg's natural protective coating (called the bloom or cuticle).
- Sanitizing rinse β After washing, eggs are often sprayed with a chlorine rinse or another FDA-approved disinfectant to kill bacteria like salmonella.
- Mineral oil (sometimes) β Some producers apply a thin layer of oil (usually odorless mineral oil) to replace the removed bloom and extend shelf life.
π₯ Why does it matter?
- Washing removes the egg's natural defense against bacteria.
- After washing, eggs must be refrigerated to prevent contamination.
- In contrast, unwashed backyard eggs (with the bloom intact) can often be safely stored at room temp for weeks.
π‘ Fun fact: In many countries (like in Europe), eggs are not washed and are sold unrefrigerated to preserve the natural bloom. With fresh eggs, you can leave them out and wash prior to using.
π§πΏ Healthy Pickled Egg Recipes
π Classic Beet Pickled Eggs
- 6 boiled eggs
- 1 cup beet juice (from canned or fresh beets)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- Garlic, bay leaf, pinch of saltβ Let sit in the fridge for 3β5 days for full flavor and a beautiful color!
πΆοΈ Spicy Turmeric Pickled Eggs
- 6 boiled eggs
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 clove garlic, sliced
- Chili flakes or jalapeΓ±o (optional!)β Anti-inflammatory and a delicious gut-boosting snack!
Drop your favorite way to enjoy eggs below and if you have your own chickens put a chick in the comments! ππ½οΈ
Wishing you a vibrant, blessed Easter and Resurrection Day filled with health, hope, and maybe a few backyard chickens and eggs! ππ