Introduction: What to do with leftover egg yolks?
If you love baking or cooking, you know that egg whites are often used in recipes that require beating or whisking. As a result, you might find yourself with a surplus of egg yolks, which can be tricky to use up. However, egg yolks are incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide range of recipes, from custards to sauces and even ice cream. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ways to use leftover egg yolks and prevent food waste.
Use egg yolks in custard and pudding recipes
One of the most popular uses for egg yolks is in custards and puddings. These recipes typically require a combination of egg yolks, sugar, and milk or cream, which are cooked together until thickened. Some classic custards that use egg yolks include crème brûlée, flan, and vanilla pudding. If you have a sweet tooth, using your leftover egg yolks to make custards and pudding is a great way to satisfy your cravings.
Make homemade mayonnaise with egg yolks
If you’re a fan of mayonnaise, you might be surprised to learn that it’s actually quite easy to make at home with just a few ingredients. One of the key ingredients in homemade mayonnaise is egg yolks, which help to emulsify the oil and vinegar or lemon juice. To make homemade mayonnaise, you’ll need egg yolks, oil, vinegar or lemon juice, and seasoning. Simply whisk the egg yolks and vinegar or lemon juice together, slowly add the oil while whisking continuously, and season to taste. Homemade mayonnaise is a great way to use up your leftover egg yolks and avoid store-bought versions that often contain preservatives and additives.
Add egg yolks to carbonara, hollandaise, and other sauces
Egg yolks are also commonly used in sauces to add richness and creaminess. Carbonara, hollandaise, and béarnaise sauces are just a few examples of sauces that use egg yolks as a key ingredient. Carbonara is made with egg yolks, bacon or pancetta, and Parmesan cheese, while hollandaise and béarnaise are made with egg yolks, butter, and vinegar or lemon juice. Adding your leftover egg yolks to these types of sauces can take your cooking to the next level and impress your dinner guests.
Use egg yolks in pasta dough for a richer flavor
If you’re a fan of making homemade pasta, adding egg yolks to your dough can give it a richer flavor and color. Traditional pasta dough is made with a combination of eggs and flour, but adding extra egg yolks can make the dough more tender and flavorful. To make pasta dough with egg yolks, simply mix together flour, egg yolks, and a bit of water until you have a dough that can be rolled out and cut into your desired pasta shapes.
Make lemon curd with egg yolks for a tangy spread
Lemon curd is a tangy spread that can be used on toast, scones, or as a filling for cakes and pastries. It’s made with egg yolks, sugar, lemon juice, and butter, and is cooked on the stovetop until thickened. Lemon curd is a great way to use up your leftover egg yolks and add some bright, citrusy flavor to your breakfast or dessert.
Use egg yolks to thicken and enrich soup or gravy
If you’re looking for a way to thicken and enrich your soups or gravies, adding egg yolks can be a great solution. Egg yolks act as a natural thickener and can help to make your soups and gravies more velvety and smooth. To use egg yolks in soup or gravy, simply whisk them together with a bit of the hot liquid from your recipe, then gradually add the mixture back into the pot while stirring continuously.
Make homemade ice cream with egg yolks
Homemade ice cream is a delicious treat, and egg yolks are a key ingredient that help to give it its creamy texture. To make homemade ice cream with egg yolks, you’ll need to heat cream, sugar, and egg yolks together until thickened, then freeze the mixture in an ice cream maker. Adding your leftover egg yolks to homemade ice cream is a great way to use them up and create a decadent dessert.
Use egg yolks to make a classic French crème brûlée
Crème brûlée is a classic French dessert that’s made with egg yolks, cream, sugar, and vanilla. The mixture is baked in ramekins until set, then topped with a layer of caramelized sugar. Using your leftover egg yolks to make crème brûlée is a great way to create a luxurious dessert that’s sure to impress.
Conclusion: Don’t let leftover egg yolks go to waste!
As you can see, there are many ways to use up leftover egg yolks and prevent food waste. From custards and puddings to sauces, pasta dough, and even ice cream, egg yolks are a versatile ingredient that can add richness and flavor to your cooking. So the next time you find yourself with a surplus of egg yolks, try one of these recipes and enjoy the delicious results!
