Spices n Secrets

Eggs are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that is used in a variety of dishes around the world. 

From breakfast to dinner, and even in desserts, eggs are a staple in many cuisines. 

This article will take a trip around the world to explore the different ways eggs are used in international cuisine.

Eggs in Asian Cuisine

In many Asian countries, eggs are a common ingredient in various dishes. In Japan, tamagoyaki, a rolled omelet, is a popular breakfast dish. It is made by whisking eggs with sugar and soy sauce and then cooking in a special rectangular pan. 

In Korea, gyeran jjim, or steamed eggs, is a popular side dish. The eggs are beaten with water or broth and steamed until they are fluffy and custard-like.

In China, century eggs, or pidan, are a delicacy. The eggs are preserved in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, and quicklime for several weeks or months until the yolk turns greenish-gray and the white becomes a translucent jelly. They are served as a side dish with pickled ginger and soy sauce.

Eggs are also used in a variety of dishes in Indian cuisine. One popular dish is egg curry, a spicy tomato-based curry often served with rice or flatbread. Another popular dish is the egg bhurji, a spicy scrambled egg dish often served for breakfast. In some parts of India, eggs are also used in desserts, such as the egg-based pudding called custard. Additionally, boiled eggs are often used as a topping for dishes such as biryani, a rice-based dish with spices and meat or vegetables. With its unique spices and flavors, Indian cuisine offers a variety of ways to use eggs in delicious and satisfying dishes.

Eggs in European Cuisine

In Europe, eggs are a staple in many dishes. In France, omelets are a classic breakfast or brunch dish. They are often filled with cheese, herbs, or vegetables, and can be served with a side of bread or salad. Tortilla de patatas, or potato omelet, is a popular dish in Spain. It is made with eggs, potatoes, and onions and is often served as a snack or appetizer.

In Italy, eggs are used in many dishes, including frittatas, similar to omelets but cooked on both sides in a skillet. They are often filled with vegetables, cheese, or meat and can be served hot or cold. Egg noodles, or spätzle, are a popular side dish in Germany. They are made with eggs, flour, and water and are often served with gravy or sautéed onions.

Eggs in African Cuisine

In many African countries, eggs are used in a variety of dishes. In Ethiopia, shakshuka, a dish of eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce, is a popular breakfast dish. It is often served with bread or injera, a traditional Ethiopian flatbread.

In Nigeria, egg stew is a popular dish, and it is made with boiled eggs, tomatoes, onions, and spices and is often served with rice or yams. In South Africa, pickled eggs are a popular snack. The eggs are boiled, peeled, and then pickled in vinegar, sugar, and spices.

Eggs in South American Cuisine

In South America, eggs are used in a variety of dishes. Tortilla de papas, or potato omelet, is a popular dish in Argentina. It is made with eggs, potatoes, onions, and sometimes cheese and is often served as a main course. In Brazil, ovos mexidos, or scrambled eggs, are a typical breakfast dish, and they are often served with bread or toast and a side of fruit.

In Colombia, huevos pericos, or scrambled eggs with tomatoes and onions, is a popular breakfast dish. It is often served with arepas, a traditional Colombian flatbread. In Peru, papa a la huancaína, or boiled potatoes with a spicy cheese sauce, is often served with hard-boiled eggs and olives.

Eggs in Middle Eastern Cuisine

In many Middle Eastern countries, eggs are a common ingredient in various dishes. In Israel, shakshuka, a dish of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, is a popular breakfast dish, often served with bread or pita. In Lebanon, balila is a popular breakfast or brunch dish of boiled chickpeas and eggs. The eggs are often served soft-boiled and eaten with chickpeas and a drizzle of olive oil.

In Turkey, menemen, a dish of scrambled eggs with tomatoes, peppers, and onions, is a popular breakfast dish, often served with bread or pita. In Egypt, foul medames, a dish of boiled fava beans with spices, is often served with hard-boiled eggs and flatbread.

Conclusion

Eggs are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that is used in a variety of dishes around the world. Whether it's a classic French omelet, spicy shakshuka from Israel, or pickled eggs from South Africa, eggs are used in a variety of ways in international cuisine. By egg-sploring different cultures and cuisines, you can discover new and exciting ways to use this incredible ingredient in our own kitchens.