Do you have an abundance of clean, unrefrigerated, farm fresh eggs, and you’re wondering what to do with them? You can quickly water glass your eggs, and it’s a cinch to do it!
First, make sure you only select clean, unfrigerated eggs. Store bought eggs will not work, since they have been refrigerated. I usually collect eggs over a few days or so, and put them in a basket on my counter. Then, when I have enough to fill a jar, I get busy preserving them.
Use Clean, Unwashed, and Unrefrigerated Eggs
Always select clean, unwashed eggs. Check for any hairline cracks.
The reason you can’t wash the eggs, prior to water glassing them, is the washing process damages the bloom on the egg. Better Homes & Gardens describes the bloom in detail as, “Just before laying an egg, the hen adds a protective layer called “bloom” or cuticle to the outside of the egg. This coating seals the shell pores, prevents bacteria from getting inside the shell, and reduces moisture loss from the egg. These are all things designed to make the egg last longer.”
That bloom is what allows the egg to last for 12-18 months while water glassed.
Select a Container and Fill with Eggs
Next, select a clean container that can be sealed air tight. I prefer a gallon sized jar, but any size will work as long as you can stack the eggs with ease, avoiding the risk of cracking them. Some folks prefer a bucket with a lid.
Note: Stack your eggs with the pointy, smaller end facing down.
2 Ingredients for Water Glassing: Pickling Lime & Water
You’ll need pickling lime and water. I like Mrs. Wages Pickling Lime.
Water Glass Ingredients Ratio
The ratio for water glassing eggs is 1 ounce of pickling lime for every 4 cups of water (1 Quart). It is recommended to use water that is distilled or filtered. However, I use well water with success. Avoid water with chlorine or flouride.
Directions to Water Glass Eggs Quickly
Just sprinkle the lime over your eggs and pour in the water. Water should be 1 inch above the eggs.
Seal in an air tight container. I prefer to add a layer of plastic wrap under my lids. However, that’s a personal preference. If you are confident that your container is air tight, plastic wrap is not necessary.
Next, store the eggs away from sunlight, in a dark, cooler area. The great thing about water glassing is you can even water glass and store eggs if you live in an apartment or flat. You don’t need access to a basement or underground space. Just locate a cool area in your home that is away from sunlight.
Why Water Glass Eggs?
So, whether your chickens are laying an abundance of eggs, you buy them from a farmers market, or someone is offering a great price for farm fresh eggs and you want to stock up, you have a quick option for storing them for future use! I love having eggs freely available during the winter months, and when chicken egg production is at a minumum.
That’s it! Wasn’t that simple? You can now quickly waterglass eggs, and with ease!
Ready to use them?
Are you ready to experience that fresh egg flavor? When you are ready to use them, a rubber glove or pair of tongs works well to remove the eggs from the container. Rinse the eggs well and enjoy!
Determine Freshness with a Quick Egg Float Test
If you are skeptical and have concerns about the freshness of your eggs, just do an egg float test. Since eggshells are pourous, an egg float test will inform you of their freshness. Place the egg in a bowl of water. If it sinks, it’s good to eat. If it floats, throw it out. It’s that simple!
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