Are you looking for a unique and flavorful appetizer or snack that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! These red hot pickled eggs are bursting with spicy, tangy goodness, and they're perfect for potlucks, game day, or simply enjoying a delicious and different snack at home. Forget boring boiled eggs – this recipe elevates the humble egg to a whole new level of flavor. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that’s both quick and impressive. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a delicious smoky flavor)
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Eggs
Carefully place the eggs in a saucepan and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then immediately remove from the heat. Cover the pan and let the eggs sit in the hot water for 10-12 minutes for perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs. This method prevents the yolks from turning green.
Step 2: Cool and Peel
Once the 10-12 minutes are up, drain the hot water and run cold water over the eggs until they're completely cool. This helps prevent cracking when peeling. Gently tap the eggs all over and peel them under cold running water.
Step 3: Make the Brine
In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, red pepper flakes, salt, paprika, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
Step 4: Pickle the Eggs
Carefully place the peeled eggs into a clean glass jar. Pour the hot brine over the eggs, ensuring they are completely submerged. If necessary, add a little extra vinegar or water to cover them.
Step 5: Refrigerate and Enjoy
Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate for at least 24 hours, allowing the eggs to absorb the flavorful brine. The longer they sit (up to a week), the more intense the flavor will become. These pickled eggs are best served chilled.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pickled Eggs:
- Egg Size: Using large eggs ensures even cooking and a good ratio of egg to brine.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. Start with less and add more if you prefer a spicier kick. You can also experiment with other chili flakes for different flavor profiles.
- Brine Storage: The brine can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to make more pickled eggs, simply add more peeled eggs to the same jar of brine.
- Serving Suggestion: These red hot pickled eggs are delicious on their own, but they also make a fantastic addition to salads, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards.
Variations:
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the brine for a sweet and spicy combination.
- Garlic Lovers: Include a few cloves of minced garlic in the brine for a garlicky twist.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary to the brine for an aromatic touch.
Nutritional Information (per egg, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 80
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 6g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. These pickled eggs are a great source of protein and offer a healthy and delicious alternative to other snacks. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick dinner idea or a healthy meal addition. Enjoy your delicious, homemade red hot pickled eggs!