Pickled eggs

Delicious pickled eggs recipe: a classic appetizer full of flavor

Pickled eggs are a savory and aromatic appetizer, perfect for serving alongside a festive meal or simply as a delicious snack. This recipe has deep roots in culinary traditions, appreciated for their intense flavor and pleasant texture. Besides being easy to prepare, pickled eggs can add a splash of color and flavor to any table. Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing these delights, providing you with useful tricks and tips to achieve a perfect result.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cooling time: 4-5 days (for optimal flavor)
Number of servings: 10 (20 eggs)

Necessary ingredients:
- 20 large eggs (preferably fresh)
- 2 garlic cloves (for an intense flavor)
- 2 small hot peppers or 1 large hot pepper (for a bit of heat)
- 1 red bell pepper (for sweetness and color)
- 1 tablespoon coarse salt (helps with preservation)
- 2 tablespoons pickling spices (you can use store-bought mixes or create your own blend)
- 75 ml vinegar (I recommend white wine vinegar for a delicate flavor)
- Sugar to taste (balances acidity)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Boil the eggs:
Place the eggs in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a teaspoon of salt and 2 tablespoons of vinegar. These ingredients help strengthen the shells and make them easier to peel. Boil the eggs for 10 minutes. Once boiled, immediately immerse them in cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Prepare the ingredients:
After the eggs have cooled, carefully peel them and poke them with a toothpick in several places. This step will allow the marinade to penetrate better into the eggs, giving them a rich flavor.

3. Prepare the marinade:
In a pot, add 1 liter of water, a tablespoon of coarse salt, 2 tablespoons of pickling spices, 75 ml of vinegar, and sugar to taste. Mix well and bring to a boil. Once the marinade boils, let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then allow it to cool slightly.

4. Assemble the jars:
In each clean jar, place a few sliced garlic cloves and the chopped hot pepper. Then, arrange the boiled and pierced eggs, followed by slices of bell pepper. Make sure the jars are evenly filled to achieve a consistent flavor.

5. Add the marinade:
When the marinade has cooled sufficiently, carefully pour it over the eggs, ensuring they are completely covered. Seal the jars with airtight lids and let them cool further at room temperature.

6. Storage:
Pickled eggs are best stored in the refrigerator. You can open them after 4-5 days to allow the flavors to develop. The longer you leave them, the more flavorful they will become.

7. Serving:
Pickled eggs are excellent as an appetizer, alongside a slice of fresh bread, cheese, or vegetables. You can also use them in salads or as a garnish for meat dishes.

Useful tips:
- If you want to experiment, you can also add other spices to the marinade, such as peppercorns or bay leaves.
- Ensure that the jars used are well cleaned and sterilized to prevent spoilage of the preparation.
- Pickled eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 months, but their flavor will be optimal in the first weeks.

Nutritional benefits:
Eggs are an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. They contain vitamin B12, vitamin D, choline, and selenium, being beneficial for brain health and the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use quail eggs for this recipe?
Yes, you can, but the boiling time will be shorter, about 4-5 minutes.
- What other vegetables can be added to the jars?
Carrots or radishes are excellent options to add extra texture and color.

These pickled eggs are not only a delicious preparation but also an excellent way to enjoy eggs in a different way. I encourage you to try this recipe, put your personal touch on it, and share it with your loved ones. Enjoy!