Pickled Quail Eggs

Pickled quail eggs are a delightful snack made by soaking boiled quail eggs in a flavorful brine. This preserves them while enhancing their taste. Whether eaten on their own, as a garnish, or part of a dish, they offer a tangy twist to the usual quail egg.

What Are Pickled Quail Eggs?

Pickled quail eggs are essentially quail eggs preserved in vinegar and spices. This pickling process gives the eggs their distinctive tart flavor while allowing them to be stored for extended periods. Due to their small size, quail eggs pickle much faster than chicken eggs, making them a popular quick snack in many cultures, especially in the USA.

Popular Recipes Using Pickled Quail Eggs

Pickled quail eggs are incredibly versatile, and there are many creative ways to use them in your cooking. Here are some detailed recipes to help you make the most out of your pickled quail egg:

1. Pickled Quail Egg Salad

This salad is a refreshing, tangy dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish. The pickled quail egg add a burst of flavor, balancing the fresh greens and dressing.

Ingredients:

10 pickled quail eggs, halved
Four cups of mixed greens, such as arugula, spinach, or lettuce
1 cucumber, sliced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 avocado, diced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the greens: Start by washing and drying your mixed greens thoroughly.Put the greens in a large salad bowl.
Slice the vegetables: Thinly slice the cucumber, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Dice the avocado. Add these ingredients to the bowl with the greens.
Add the eggs: Cut the pickled quail egg in half and gently toss them into the salad.
Make the dressing: Create a dressing by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Toss and serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently to combine, and serve immediately. This salad pairs well with crusty bread or grilled chicken.

2. Pickled Quail Egg in Cocktails (Bloody Mary Garnish)

Adding pickled quail egg to a cocktail, like a Bloody Mary, provides a savory and surprising element to your drink.

Ingredients for the Bloody Mary:

1 1/2 oz vodka
3 oz tomato juice
1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
1 dash Worcestershire sauce
1 dash hot sauce (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 pickled quail egg, as garnish

Instructions:

Mix the drink: In a shaker, combine the vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
Shake and pour: Shake well to mix all the ingredients and pour into a tall glass filled with ice.
Garnish: Thread a pickled quail egg onto a cocktail pick or skewer. Add it to the glass as a garnish along with a celery stalk or cucumber spear.
Serve: Serve chilled and enjoy the unexpected tartness from the pickled egg as you sip your cocktail.

3. Deviled Pickled Quail Eggs

Deviled quail eggs take the classic deviled egg recipe to a new level, combining the tang of pickled eggs with creamy, zesty fillings. They make for perfect party appetizers or snacks.

Ingredients:

12 pickled quail eggs, halved
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon pickle juice (from the pickled quail egg jar)
Paprika, for garnish
Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions:

Halve the eggs: Slice the pickled quail eggs in half lengthwise. Handle the yolks with care and place them in a small mixing bowl.
Prepare the filling: Mash the yolks together with a fork until they are creamy. Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, and pickle juice. Mix until the filling is creamy and smooth.
Fill the eggs: Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the halved egg whites.
Garnish: Sprinkle with paprika and freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Chill and serve: Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve cold at your next gathering.

How to Make Pickled Quail Eggs at Home

Making pickled quail eggs is surprisingly simple. You’ll need boiled quail eggs, a vinegar-based brine, and some seasoning of your choice. Here’s a basic guide:

Boil and peel the quail eggs.
Prepare a brine with vinegar, water, salt, and spices (such as peppercorns, garlic, and bay leaves).
Place the eggs in a sterilized jar.
Pour the brine over the eggs, ensuring they are fully submerged.
Seal the jar and allow it to rest for at least 24 hours. For stronger flavors, let them pickle for a week or more.

Pickled quail eggs can be refrigerated and stored for up to three months, making them a convenient and long-lasting snack.

Benefits of Pickled Quail Eggs

Pickled quail egg offers several benefits, from their rich nutritional value to their ability to be stored for long periods. Some key benefits include:

High in Protein: Quail eggs are packed with protein, making them a great post-workout snack or addition to any meal.
Rich in Vitamins: They are high in vitamins like A, B12, and riboflavin, contributing to overall health.
Long Shelf Life: The pickling process allows quail eggs to stay fresh for weeks or even months when stored properly.
Portable and Versatile: Pickled quail eggs are easy to carry, making them perfect for on-the-go snacking or camping trips.