A WEEKLY HOME COOKING COLUMN FEATURING QUICK RECIPES WITH LOCALLY SOURCED INGREDIENTS

NATURAL EGGS!

Many people ask how I store my local eggs. The answer is not so straightforward. How you store your eggs will depend on how they have been handled. If the hens are in a muddy winter environment, you might need to wash the eggs to store. If you have an abundance of eggs and need them to last longer, that might determine how to handle and store your eggs. 

HOW TO STORE

• If they have been washed, always store them in the fridge. (Read here about why they must be stored after washing the protective layer away). Ask your farmer if they washed them. 

• If they are not washed, and able to be stored without washing, store on the counter in an egg skelter. 

•  If they have been washed, the best long-term preservation would be to hard boil and pickle. 

• If they have not been washed, and are fresh, they can be water glassed.

Water-glassing is an old technique used to preserve eggs that does not require processing beforehand to ensure success. The eggs are put in a bucket of water mixed with hydrated lime, and when taken out they’re fresh.

WAYS TO USE EGGS

• Breakfast Burrito, quick and customizable. 

• Egg Sandwiches—featured is a waffle egg sandwich with buckwheat microgreens. The side dish is roasted squash and apples. 

• A quick trusty dinner is rice with greens, topped by a scrambled egg. 

Editor’s Note: Use your February Pocket Perks at Urban Prairie Agriculture today! $2 OFF local vinegar from Slide Ridge. Coupon code: SLIDE200