Quail eggs with herb sauce

Quail eggs with herb sauce

Total time: 25 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Discover the charm of dishes with quail eggs, a refined ingredient that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your table. These small, delicate, and flavorful eggs are perfect when served with a rich herb sauce that will turn every bite into a true culinary delight.

History and context

Quail eggs have been consumed for centuries, appreciated not only for their refined taste but also for their nutritional benefits. They are rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, with a lower calorie content compared to chicken eggs. Additionally, herb-based sauces have historically been used to enhance the flavors of dishes, bringing a freshness and savoriness.

Preparing the ingredients

To achieve a perfect dish, it is essential to have the freshest ingredients on hand. Here’s what you need:

- 16 quail eggs
- 30 g butter
- 30 g flour
- 250 ml broth or water
- 250 g Greek yogurt
- A handful of herbs (oregano, basil, rosemary, parsley, celery, etc.)
- Iodized salt, to taste
- Freshly ground white pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Useful tips for your ingredients

1. Quail eggs: Ensure they are fresh. Buy them from a trusted supplier or specialty stores.
2. Greek yogurt: Choose a high-fat quality yogurt to achieve a creamy and rich sauce.
3. Herbs: Use fresh herbs whenever possible. They will add vibrant flavor and color to your dish.

Step by step: Cooking quail eggs

1. Start by placing the quail eggs in a pot with cold water, adding a teaspoon of salt. This will help flavor the eggs while boiling.
2. Place the pot on the stove and bring the water to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, let the eggs boil for 5 minutes. This time is crucial for achieving perfectly boiled eggs, not too soft or too hard.
3. After 5 minutes, remove the eggs and immediately place them in cold water to stop the cooking process. This trick will help achieve a perfect texture.

Preparing the herb sauce

1. In a pan, melt the butter over low heat. Then add the flour and continuously stir to obtain a smooth roux. This will be the base of your sauce.
2. Gradually pour in the broth or water, stirring vigorously to avoid lumps.
3. Once the sauce is homogeneous, add the Greek yogurt and continue stirring. Cook over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce becomes creamy and delicious.
4. Finally, season the sauce with salt, freshly ground white pepper, and add finely chopped herbs such as oregano, basil, and parsley. Don’t forget to add the lemon juice for a touch of freshness!

Assembling the dish

1. Arrange the quail eggs on a platter, delicately cut in half or left whole, depending on your preference.
2. Pour the herb sauce over the eggs, ensuring each egg is well covered.
3. Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh herbs for an aesthetic look and added flavor.

Serving suggestions

This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a side of grilled vegetables. Additionally, a slice of toasted bread or a croissant could stylishly complement this dish. And, of course, don’t forget a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing cocktail to highlight the fine flavors of the sauce.

Variations and tips

If you don’t have quail eggs on hand, you can use chicken eggs, but make sure to reduce the quantity to 4 large eggs. Also, for a spicier sauce, you can add a few drops of chili sauce or some slices of hot pepper.

Frequently asked questions

1. What is the difference between quail eggs and chicken eggs?
Quail eggs are smaller, have a more delicate taste, and contain more nutrients per gram compared to chicken eggs.

2. Can I use other types of herbs in the sauce?
Absolutely! Experiment with herbs like thyme or mint to add unique flavors.

3. How can I store quail eggs?
Boiled eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure they are covered to prevent drying out.

Nutritional benefits

Quail eggs are an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals like zinc and iron. They are low in calories, with about 14 calories each, making them ideal for a balanced diet. The herb sauce, made with Greek yogurt and fresh herbs, adds even more nutritional benefits, such as probiotics and antioxidants.

In conclusion, quail eggs with herb sauce are an elegant, healthy, and flavorful dish, perfect for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself every day. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and adapt it to your taste! Enjoy!