Jo Knows Nutrition
by Joanne Nijhuis
PERFECT PICKLED EGGS NO CANNING REQUIRED
April 21, 2025 – Pickled eggs may seem like a throwback to your grandmother’s kitchen or the corner deli, but these perfect protein powerhouses are making a comeback – and for good reason! Whether you enjoy them as a snack, salad topper, or protein boost on the go, pickled eggs are easy to prepare, affordable and offer plenty of health benefits. That said, they are best enjoyed in moderation and eliminate or reduce the salt content in this recipe if you are restricting your sodium intake.
DID YOU KNOW?
Prior to the days of refrigeration, pickling in vinegar was used as a preservation method. Unlike the traditional fermentation process, pickled eggs are simply preserved in vinegar and stored in the fridge. While they are a healthy option, they do not have the same probiotic benefits as yogurt or kefir. For safety’s sake, please handle eggs with care. Always store pickled eggs in the refrigerator for up to 1 month and use clean utensils when serving. Home-pickled eggs that sit out too long can pose a health risk.
INGREDIENTS
12 hard-boiled eggs, peeled cooled
2 cups (500 mL) white vinegar
1 cup (250 mL) water
¼ cup (63 mL) granulated sugar
1 bay leaf
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 Tablespoon (15 ml) pickling spice or the following
blend:
1-2 teaspoons (10 ml) salt, optional
2-3 fresh garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried dill weed
3 sprigs fresh dill
1 teaspoon (5 ml) mustard seeds
1 teaspoon (5 ml) black peppercorns
INSTRUCTIONS
Combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and bay leaf in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar has dissolved.
In a clean jar, layer the eggs with the pickling spice or the homemade spice blend.
Pour hot brine over the eggs.
Add the onions slices to the jar.
Cool to room temperature and then, refrigerate.
Wait 4–7 days for full flavour development. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
VARIATIONS
Beet Pickled Eggs:Â Add a cooked, peeled and sliced red beet to the pickling liquid for magenta-coloured pickled eggs.
Spicy Pickled Eggs: Add 1 or 2 sliced jalapeño peppers (remove seeds for a milder flavour) or 2 teaspoons (10 ml) red pepper flakes.
Curried Pickled Eggs: Replace the pickling spice or homemade spice blend with 2 Tablespoons (30 ml) curry powder, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) turmeric and 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced.
ENJOY!