Pickled Eggs Recipe – Great Meal Recipes

Servings: 6 Total Time: 30 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

Before diving into the nitty-gritty of pickled eggs, let’s chat about what you can pair them with. Pickled eggs have a tangy, savory flavor that complements a variety of dishes. Think about serving them alongside spicy sausages or BBQ ribs. 

They also make a fantastic addition to a charcuterie board, bringing a pop of color and flavor. Serve with fresh, crusty bread or crunchy crackers, and don’t forget some sharp cheese.

If you’re feeling adventurous, include them in salads or grain bowls—like a twist on the typical garden salad.

Now, let’s embark on this journey together.

Pickled Eggs Recipe

I remember the first time I tried a pickled egg. It was at a rustic pub, known for its quirky menu items. I was skeptical at first. 

Pickled eggs? Really? But once I had my first bite, it was love at first taste. Tangy, flavorful, and surprisingly satisfying, pickled eggs became a staple in my culinary repertoire.

Why do I love them? Well, they’re simple to make, packed with flavor, and provide that unique edge to any meal. 

Plus, they bring back memories of old-timey gatherings where everyone would have fun dunking them into salt and pepper. Today, I’m excited to share how you too can create these delightful little bites of goodness in your own kitchen.

You Might Also Like These Recipes!

What Are Pickled Eggs?

Pickled eggs are hard-boiled eggs steeped in a vinegar-based brine. Originally popularized in regions like the UK and the United States, these eggs are often enjoyed as a bar snack or appetizer. 

The eggs soak up the brine, resulting in a tangy, pickled flavor that varies based on the spices and herbs used. They can be vibrant with colors, often featuring shades of yellow to deep red, depending on the type of vinegar and additional ingredients.

Now, let’s take a deeper dive into the reasons you’ll love these little beauties.

Why You’ll Love Pickled Eggs

1. Nutritious and Satisfying

Hard-boiled eggs pack a protein punch. They’re nutrient-dense, offering vitamins like B12 and minerals such as phosphorus. Pair that with the beneficial properties of vinegar—known to support digestion—and you have a snack that’s not just tasty but also nutritious.

2. Uniquely Flavorful

The beauty of pickled eggs lies in their adaptability. You can infuse them with a variety of spices to cater to your taste buds. Like a hint of heat? Grab some jalapeños. Prefer herbal notes? Fresh dill or oregano can do wonders. You have the reins on flavor here, and that’s incredibly satisfying.

3. Easy to Make Ahead

These eggs are the perfect prep-ahead snack. Once pickled, they can last for weeks in the fridge. This makes them ideal for meal prep on those busy Sundays when you’re gearing up for a hectic week.

4. Great for Entertaining

Want to impress your guests? Serve them pickled eggs at your next gathering. They’re an eye-catching addition that sparks curiosity and conversation. Plus, they go well with drinks—what’s not to love?

5. Versatile Use

Pickled eggs can shine as a standalone snack, but they can also elevate a salad or a grain bowl. Chop them up for a unique twist on your favorite recipes. They truly can adapt to any meal or occasion.

The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Pickled Eggs

Before you roll up your sleeves, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need for this delightful project:

  • 6 peeled hard-boiled eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
  • 1 small bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, slightly toasted
  • 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 1 garlic clove, lightly crushed
  • 2 fresh jalapeños, halved lengthwise and deseeded
  • 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon organic cane sugar
  • 3/4 cup filtered water
  • 3/4 cup raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar

Now that we’ve got everything, it’s time to get cooking!

Directions

Step 1: Prepare Your Hard-Boiled Eggs

If you don’t have hard-boiled eggs ready, here’s a quick method to prep them:

  • Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water, about an inch above the eggs.
  • Bring to a rolling boil over medium heat.
  • Once boiling, turn off the stove, cover the pan, and let the eggs sit for 12-14 minutes.
  • Transfer the eggs to an ice bath for five minutes. This helps with peeling.

Step 2: Make the Brine

While your eggs are cooling, let’s whip up our brine. In a saucepan, combine:

  • 3/4 cup raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar
  • 3/4 cup filtered water
  • 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon organic cane sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
  • 1 small bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 2 fresh jalapeños
  • 1/4 small red onion

Bring the brine to a simmer over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves. Once it simmers, remove it from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Eggs

Place your peeled hard-boiled eggs in a clean jar or container. Make sure the jar is large enough to hold all the eggs and the brine. 

Pour the slightly cooled brine over the eggs. Ensure they are completely submerged. If you have trouble with the eggs floating, use a clean weight (like a small jar) to keep them down.

Step 4: Chill and Wait

Cover the jar with a lid and place it in the fridge. Allow the eggs to pickle for at least 24 hours. For the best flavor, aim for three days. The longer they soak, the more flavorful they become.

How to make Pickled Eggs Recipe

Notes

Here’s a handful of notes to ensure your pickled eggs come out amazing:

  • Always use clean jars: Sanitize your containers to prevent unwanted bacterial growth.
  • Try different vinegar: While I love apple cider vinegar, rice vinegar or white vinegar are options too.
  • Experiment with spices: Feel free to swap or add spices based on your taste. Dill is a classic for a reason.
  • Add more heat: If you love spice, leave the seeds in the jalapeños or add some crushed red pepper to the brine.
  • Taste and adjust: After a couple of days, taste your eggs. Adjust the brine with more vinegar or sugar if you prefer a different balance.

Storage Tips

Pickled eggs are best kept in the refrigerator, where they can last up to 2-3 months. Always use a clean utensil to remove an egg from the jar to keep things fresh. If you notice any off smells, colors, or textures, it’s wise to discard them.

Nutrition Information

Pickled Eggs Nutrition Facts

Pickled Eggs

Serving Suggestions

Here are some great ways to serve your pickled eggs:

  • In a Salad: Chop them up and toss them into your favorite salad. The tangy flavor brightens up any greens.
  • As a Snack: Enjoy them whole straight from the jar. They make for a quick protein boost.
  • On a Sandwich: Slice them and add to a sandwich or wrap for an exciting twist.
  • Charcuterie Board: Include them alongside cured meats, cheeses, and olives for a beautiful presentation.
  • In Grain Bowls: Top your grain bowl with sliced pickled egg. It’s an easy way to add flavor and nutrition.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use In Pickled Eggs?

If you want to play around with flavors, consider these substitutes:

  • Beet Juice: Replace half the vinegar with beet juice for a colorful, earthy twist.
  • Red Wine Vinegar: Use this instead of apple cider vinegar for a sharper taste.
  • Honey or Agave: Swap out sugar for honey or agave syrup if you prefer a natural sweetener.
  • Dried Herbs: Try thyme or dill if Mexican oregano isn’t your thing. Both offer fantastic flavors.
  • Different Peppers: Swap jalapeños for habaneros or serranos if you want more heat.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve learned everything there is to know about pickled eggs, I hope you’re as excited as I am to try making them at home. From their tangy flavor to their endless versatility, these little bites are sure to impress.

If you’re looking for a way to bring fun flavors to your table, or need a unique snack to serve at your next gathering, give these pickled eggs a go. 

You’ll find that not only will they be a delightful addition to your meals, but they hold the power to transport you to a rustic pub with every tangy bite.

So go ahead! Roll up your sleeves and embark on this food adventure. Happy pickling!

You Might Also Like These Latest Recipes!

Pickled Eggs Recipe – Great Meal Recipes

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 30 mins
Servings: 6 Calories: 121
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

I remember the first time I tried a pickled egg. It was at a rustic pub, known for its quirky menu items. I was skeptical at first. 

Pickled eggs? Really? But once I had my first bite, it was love at first taste. Tangy, flavorful, and surprisingly satisfying, pickled eggs became a staple in my culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Hard-Boiled Eggs

  1. If you don’t have hard-boiled eggs ready, here's a quick method to prep them:
  2. Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water, about an inch above the eggs.
  3. Bring to a rolling boil over medium heat.
  4. Once boiling, turn off the stove, cover the pan, and let the eggs sit for 12-14 minutes.
  5. Transfer the eggs to an ice bath for five minutes. This helps with peeling.

Step 2: Make the Brine

  1. While your eggs are cooling, let’s whip up our brine. In a saucepan, combine:
  2. 3/4 cup raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar
  3. 3/4 cup filtered water
  4. 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon organic cane sugar
  5. 1/2 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
  6. 1 small bay leaf
  7. 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  8. 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
  9. 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  10. 1 garlic clove
  11. 2 fresh jalapeños
  12. 1/4 small red onion
  13. Bring the brine to a simmer over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves. Once it simmers, remove it from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Eggs

  1. Place your peeled hard-boiled eggs in a clean jar or container. Make sure the jar is large enough to hold all the eggs and the brine.
  2. Pour the slightly cooled brine over the eggs. Ensure they are completely submerged. If you have trouble with the eggs floating, use a clean weight (like a small jar) to keep them down.

Step 4: Chill and Wait

  1. Cover the jar with a lid and place it in the fridge. Allow the eggs to pickle for at least 24 hours. For the best flavor, aim for three days. The longer they soak, the more flavorful they become.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6


Amount Per Serving
Calories 121kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 8.1g13%
Saturated Fat 2.2g12%
Cholesterol 516mg172%
Sodium 88mg4%
Total Carbohydrate 3g1%
Sugars 1g
Protein 8g16%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: Pickled Eggs Recipe
Recipe Card powered by WP Delicious

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:

1. How long do pickled eggs last?

Pickled eggs can last up to 2-3 months in the refrigerator. Ensure they remain submerged in the brine, and always use clean utensils when removing them.

2. Can I use fresh eggs for pickling?

It’s best to use older eggs that have been hard-boiled because fresh eggs are harder to peel. Older eggs will peel more easily, making your final presentation much prettier.

3. Are pickled eggs safe for everyone to eat?

While generally safe, those with egg allergies or certain dietary restrictions should avoid them. Additionally, people on a low-sodium diet should be cautious due to brine.

4. What is the ideal pickling time for flavor?

For the best flavor, aim to pickle them for at least 3 days. However, they can be consumed after 24 hours if you’re in a hurry.

5. Can pickled eggs be left out of the fridge?

No, pickled eggs need to be kept in the refrigerator to maintain safety and freshness. Leaving them out can pose a risk of foodborne illness.

6. What do I do if the eggs turn green?

If the egg whites turn a green-gray color, that’s likely due to a reaction between the iron in the yolk and the vinegar. While they may not look appealing, they are still safe to eat.

Barbara Brito, Author and Registered Dietitian
Barbara Brito Registered Dietitian & Food Enthusiasts

Barbara Brito is a Florida-based registered dietitian and the creator of Great Meal Recipes, where she shares nutritious, delicious, and easy-to-make meals for home cooks of all skill levels. With a passion for creating wholesome dishes that don’t sacrifice flavor, Barbara draws inspiration from her love of family, food, and simple cooking. Her blog focuses on accessible recipes that bring joy and balance to the kitchen.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *