Extend egg shelf life with this surprising freezing method
Eggs – this basic ingredient in many dishes – require proper storage to maintain their freshness and quality. Although many people keep them in the refrigerator, it turns out there's a way to store eggs for even longer. Discover the surprising trick that will allow you to enjoy fresh eggs all year round.
22 October 2024 13:26
The freshness of eggs doesn't last forever, so it's worth knowing ways to extend their shelf life. Contrary to common belief, there is a method to maintain the freshness of eggs for up to a year. The secret lies in proper storage. Find out how to prolong the freshness of eggs with one simple trick.
One of the most frequently asked questions is where is the best place to store eggs – in the refrigerator or outside. Although many people keep eggs in the refrigerator, it turns out it's not necessary. At room temperature, eggs stay fresh for about two weeks, while in the refrigerator, their shelf life extends to three weeks. However, there's an even better way to prolong the freshness of eggs – freezing.
Why is it worth freezing eggs?
Freezing eggs is a simple and effective way to extend their shelf life. This way, you can always have this valuable ingredient on hand, perfect for making various dishes.
Benefits of freezing eggs:
- Longer shelf life: Frozen eggs can be stored for up to a year without losing their nutritional properties.
- Convenience: Don't worry about the eggs going bad. You can freeze them in appropriate portions and use them as needed.
- Versatility: Both whole eggs and separated whites and yolks can be successfully frozen.
How to properly freeze eggs?
Although it may sound surprising, freezing is one of the best ways to extend the freshness of eggs. Under proper conditions, frozen eggs can retain their quality for up to 12 months. This is an extremely useful trick, especially when you have a surplus of eggs and don't want them to go to waste.
Freezing whole eggs:
- Break eggs: Gently break eggs and pour the contents into an airtight container.
- Whisk: Lightly whisk with a fork to combine the yolks and whites.
- Freeze: Label the container with the date and place it in the freezer.
Freezing yolks:
- Separate yolks: Carefully separate the yolks from the whites.
- Add salt or sugar: For every 250 millilitres of yolks, add 2.5 millilitres of salt (for savoury dishes) or 20 millilitres of sugar (for desserts).
- Mix: Mix the yolks thoroughly with the addition.
- Freeze: Pour into an airtight container and freeze.
Freezing whites:
- Separate whites: Carefully separate the whites from the yolks.
- Mix: Lightly whisk the whites with a fork.
- Freeze: Pour into an airtight container and freeze.
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How to thaw frozen eggs?
Thawing eggs also requires the right approach. They should not be thawed quickly at room temperature, as this can affect their texture and taste. The best way to thaw eggs is to place them in the refrigerator overnight. Through slow thawing, eggs maintain their structure and are suitable for use in a variety of dishes.
After thawing, eggs can be used just like fresh ones – for baking, omelettes, pancakes, or other dishes. However, it's important not to refreeze once-thawed eggs. This action can not only negatively affect their quality but also pose a risk of bacterial growth, which can be hazardous to health.
Freezing eggs is a practical way to extend their shelf life and minimize food waste. This way, you'll always have this valuable ingredient on hand, perfect for preparing diverse dishes. Just remember proper storage and thawing to enjoy their excellent taste.