Pickled Eggs Recipe

Spicy pickled eggs are a delicious twist on traditional pickled eggs, infused with fiery flavors that complement their tangy profile. This step-by-step guide will help you create flavorful spicy pickled eggs that are perfect for snacking, appetizers, or adding a bold kick to your dishes.

Ingredients

• 6-8 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns
• 2-3 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1-2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Optional: 1-2 whole dried chili peppers (like arbol or cayenne)

Equipment Needed:

• Medium saucepan
• Sterilized canning jars with lids
• Slotted spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Eggs

1. Hard-Boil Eggs: Place 6-8 large eggs in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
2. Cool and Peel: Remove the eggs from the hot water and place them in a bowl of ice water to cool completely. Once cooled, gently tap and roll each egg on a hard surface to crack the shell, then peel under cold running water.
3. Prepare Eggs: Place the peeled eggs aside while you prepare the pickling liquid.

Step 2: Prepare the Spicy Pickling Liquid

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of white vinegar, 1 cup of water, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of whole peppercorns, 2-3 peeled garlic cloves, 1-2 bay leaves, and 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Optionally, add 1-2 whole dried chili peppers for extra heat.
2. Boil and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve completely. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Pickle the Eggs

1. Pack Jars: Pack the peeled hard-boiled eggs tightly into sterilized canning jars. You can halve the eggs if desired to fit better in the jars.
2. Pour Pickling Liquid: Carefully pour the warm pickling liquid over the eggs in the jars, covering them completely. Ensure there is about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of each jar.

Step 4: Seal and Store

1. Remove Air Bubbles: Gently tap the jars on the counter to remove any air bubbles. If necessary, use a clean utensil to release trapped air.
2. Seal Jars: Wipe the jar rims with a clean, damp cloth to ensure they are free of any residue. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until fingertip-tight.
3. Cool and Refrigerate: Let the jars cool to room temperature on a towel-lined countertop. Once cooled, refrigerate the spicy pickled eggs for at least 1 week before consuming to allow the flavors to develop.

Step 5: Enjoy!

1. Serve: After the pickling period, enjoy the spicy pickled eggs as a zesty snack or add them to salads, sandwiches, or antipasto platters for an extra kick of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Spicy Pickled Eggs

• Adjust Heat: If you prefer milder or hotter pickled eggs, adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add different varieties of chili peppers to suit your taste.
• Flavor Infusion: Allow the eggs to pickle for at least 1 week before consuming to fully absorb the spicy flavors.
• Storage: Spicy pickled eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. The longer they sit, the more infused with flavor they become.

FAQ

Can I use other types of vinegar?

Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile.

How long do spicy pickled eggs need to sit before eating?

For best flavor, allow the spicy pickled eggs to sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 week before consuming. They will continue to develop in flavor over time.

Can I process spicy pickled eggs for longer storage?

No, spicy pickled eggs are best stored in the refrigerator and should not be processed for room-temperature storage like other pickled vegetables.

Conclusion

This spicy pickled eggs recipe provides a flavorful and zesty twist on traditional pickled eggs, perfect for adding a kick to your favorite dishes or enjoying as a tangy snack. Explore the bold flavors and versatility of spicy pickled eggs as you create and share this delicious treat!