Mustard pickled eggs are a tangy, flavorful snack or appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as part of a charcuterie board, adding them to salads, or enjoying them as a stand-alone snack, these mustard pickled eggs deliver a delightful bite with their zesty, mustard-infused brine. Easy to prepare, they are a versatile addition to your kitchen that can be enjoyed in various ways.
Ingredients
To create the perfect mustard pickled eggs, you will need the following ingredients. These come together to form a tangy and slightly spicy pickling liquid that adds flavor to the eggs while preserving them for a longer shelf life.
Main Ingredients:
- 12 hard-boiled eggs, peeled
Start with perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs, peeled and ready for pickling. Fresh eggs will give the best results, ensuring a firm texture that absorbs the flavors of the mustard brine.
For the Pickling Brine:
- 1 cup white vinegar
White vinegar is essential for the pickling process, giving the eggs a strong, tangy flavor while acting as a preservative to keep them fresh. - 1/2 cup water
Water helps dilute the vinegar, balancing the acidity of the brine to prevent it from being too overpowering. - 1/4 cup yellow mustard
Mustard is the star ingredient in this recipe, lending the eggs their signature sharpness and color. - 2 tablespoons sugar
Sugar provides just the right amount of sweetness to balance the acidity of the vinegar and the sharpness of the mustard. - 1 teaspoon salt
Salt enhances the flavor of the eggs and helps with the preservation process. - 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
Peppercorns add a mild, earthy spiciness to the brine without overwhelming the other flavors. - 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
Mustard seeds bring a deeper mustard flavor and add texture to the pickling brine. - 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
Turmeric adds a vibrant yellow hue and a warm, slightly bitter flavor that complements the mustard and enhances the eggs’ appearance.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s walk through the simple steps to create these flavorful mustard pickled eggs.
Step 1: Prepare the Pickling Brine
The first step in this process is to create the pickling liquid, which will infuse the hard-boiled eggs with flavor.
- Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup white vinegar, 1/2 cup water, 1/4 cup yellow mustard, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black peppercorns, 1 teaspoon mustard seeds, and 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder.
- Bring to a boil: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure that the sugar and salt dissolve completely. Once the mixture reaches a boil, the brine is ready for the next step.
Step 2: Simmer the Brine
Once the brine is boiling, it’s time to simmer the mixture to allow the spices and mustard to blend thoroughly.
- Simmer for 5 minutes: Reduce the heat to low and allow the brine to simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This process helps the flavors meld together, ensuring that the mustard, vinegar, and spices infuse well into the liquid.
Pro Tip: Stir the brine occasionally as it simmers to prevent any mustard from settling at the bottom of the saucepan.
Step 3: Prepare the Eggs
While the brine simmers, prepare the hard-boiled eggs for pickling.
- Place eggs in a jar: Place the 12 peeled hard-boiled eggs into a large, sterilized glass jar or container. Be sure to use a jar with enough space to allow the eggs to be completely submerged in the brine.
Step 4: Add the Pickling Liquid
Once the brine has simmered for 5 minutes, it’s time to combine the eggs and brine.
- Pour the brine over the eggs: Carefully pour the hot mustard pickling liquid over the hard-boiled eggs in the jar, ensuring that all the eggs are completely submerged in the brine. If needed, gently press the eggs down to ensure they are fully covered.
Important: Always ensure that the jar you’re using is properly sterilized. This helps preserve the eggs and prevent contamination.
Step 5: Cool and Refrigerate
After the eggs have been placed in the brine, it’s essential to allow the pickling process to take its course.
- Let cool: Allow the eggs and brine to cool to room temperature. This will help the eggs absorb the brine more effectively.
- Seal and refrigerate: Once the eggs have cooled, tightly seal the jar with a lid and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to develop. The longer the eggs sit in the refrigerator, the more flavorful they will become.
Pro Tip: For the best flavor, let the eggs marinate for up to 48 hours or even longer. This gives the mustard and spices plenty of time to permeate the eggs.
Serving Suggestions
Mustard pickled eggs are a versatile snack that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are a few ideas on how to serve them:
1. As a Stand-Alone Snack
Enjoy mustard pickled eggs straight out of the jar for a quick, tangy snack. Their zesty flavor makes them a satisfying and low-carb option for snacking anytime.
2. Sliced on Salads
Add sliced mustard pickled eggs to your favorite salads for an extra burst of flavor. They pair wonderfully with fresh greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes, adding a tangy contrast to the other ingredients.
3. On Sandwiches
Mustard pickled eggs can also be sliced and used as a topping for sandwiches or wraps. Their tangy, savory flavor complements meats like ham, turkey, or chicken, adding a punch of flavor to any sandwich.
4. Paired with Charcuterie
For a gourmet touch, serve mustard pickled eggs alongside a charcuterie board. Their bold, mustardy flavor pairs well with cured meats, cheeses, and pickled vegetables.
Recipe Variations
Pickling eggs offers plenty of room for creativity. Here are a few ways you can adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences:
1. Add More Heat
If you prefer your pickled eggs with a spicy kick, try adding a few slices of jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pickling brine. This will add a layer of heat that complements the mustard’s tangy flavor.
2. Use Apple Cider Vinegar
For a different flavor profile, substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar will give the brine a slightly sweeter, fruitier taste that pairs beautifully with the mustard and spices.
3. Add Fresh Herbs
You can also enhance the pickling brine with fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary. Adding herbs to the brine will introduce aromatic flavors and elevate the overall taste of the eggs.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is key to keeping your mustard pickled eggs fresh and flavorful:
- Refrigeration: Mustard pickled eggs should always be stored in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 2-3 weeks in a sealed jar.
- Submersion: Make sure the eggs remain fully submerged in the brine at all times. This helps maintain their flavor and prevents spoilage.
Health Benefits of Mustard Pickled Eggs
Mustard pickled eggs aren’t just tasty; they offer some health benefits too:
1. High in Protein
Eggs are an excellent source of protein, making mustard pickled eggs a nutritious snack. They are particularly great for those following a high-protein diet.
2. Low in Calories
Pickled eggs are low in calories, making them a smart choice for those looking to manage their weight while still enjoying a flavorful treat.
3. Good Source of Vitamins
Eggs are rich in vitamins like B12, which supports energy production, and vitamin D, which is essential for bone health.
Conclusion
Mustard pickled eggs are a simple yet flavorful snack that can be enjoyed on their own or incorporated into various dishes. Their tangy, zesty taste pairs beautifully with salads, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards, making them a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Easy to prepare and packed with protein, these mustard pickled eggs are a healthy, delicious, and convenient snack you’ll want to make again and again!
Print
Mustard Pickled Eggs Printable Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
A tangy and flavorful snack or appetizer perfect for any occasion
Ingredients
12 hard-boiled eggs, peeled
1 cup white vinegar
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup yellow mustard
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, yellow mustard, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, and turmeric powder. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Place the hard-boiled eggs in a large sterilized glass jar or container.
4. Carefully pour the hot mustard pickling liquid over the eggs, ensuring they are completely submerged.
5. Let the eggs cool to room temperature, then seal the jar tightly and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
6. Enjoy the mustard pickled eggs as a snack or sliced on top of salads or sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes