Importance Score: 65 / 100 🔴
Discarding expired eggs is a common occurrence, whether they are stored at room temperature or refrigerated. However, an unconventional method for extending egg shelf life involves freezing eggs, potentially reducing waste and improving egg storage longevity.
Extending Egg Shelf Life Through Freezing
While many assume eggs cannot be frozen, this is incorrect. Freezing is a viable option. Properly frozen eggs can be stored in a freezer for up to four months before their quality significantly diminishes. In contrast, refrigerated eggs typically maintain freshness for a maximum of five weeks. This disparity demonstrates how freezing can substantially prolong the usability of eggs, thereby helping to prevent unnecessary waste.
The Correct Method for Freezing Eggs
It is important to note that a specific procedure must be followed before placing eggs in the freezer. You cannot freeze eggs in their shells. Instead, crack the eggs and transfer their contents into a suitable container, such as a plastic tub. Attempting to freeze whole eggs will result in the liquid expanding, which will inevitably cause the shells to crack.
Preparing Eggs Before Freezing
After cracking, it is crucial to beat the eggs gently. Freezing unmixed egg contents can lead to a gel-like texture upon thawing, rendering them unsuitable for various recipes. To use the frozen egg mixture, remove it from the freezer and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. For a faster thawing process, place the container under cold running water.
Utilizing Thawed Eggs
Once the egg mixture is fully thawed, it can be used in recipes exactly as fresh eggs would be. Whether preparing scrambled eggs or incorporating them into baked goods like cakes, employing this freezing technique is an effective strategy to ensure no eggs are wasted.
Handling Leftover Egg
This method is particularly advantageous when you have whisked only a portion of an egg for a specific use, such as an egg wash for pastry. Rather than discarding the remainder, simply place the unused portion in a container and freeze it for later use.