Egg whites are a versatile commodity that is sometimes left over from recipes that only call for the yolks. Rather than wasting them, there are a plethora of tasty and inventive ways to use egg whites.
Egg whites can be the star of the show or a supporting part, adding texture and lightness to everything from meringues and macarons to cocktails and omelets.
In this post, we’ll look at a range of recipes and ideas for using egg whites so you can get the most out of this underutilized item.
What Can I Make With Egg Whites?
Egg whites are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes, both sweet and savory. Here are some ideas for what you can make with egg whites:
Sweet Dishes
- Meringue: Whip egg whites with sugar until stiff peaks form, then bake at a low temperature to create light, airy meringues.
- Pavlova: Make a meringue base and top it with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
- Macarons: These French cookies are made with almond flour, sugar, and egg whites.
- Angel Food Cake: A light and fluffy cake that relies on whipped egg whites for its texture.
- Marshmallows: Homemade marshmallows use egg whites to achieve their fluffy texture.
- Swiss Buttercream: A smooth and creamy frosting made with egg whites and butter.
- Soufflé: A light, fluffy dish that can be either sweet or savory, but the sweet versions often include chocolate or fruit.
- Icing for Cookies or Cakes: Some icing recipes call for egg whites to give them a glossy finish.
- Coconut Macaroons: Combine egg whites with shredded coconut and sugar, then bake.
- Egg White Brownies: Make a lighter version of brownies using only egg whites.
Savory Dishes
- Egg White Omelette: A healthier omelet option using just the egg whites, filled with vegetables, cheese, or meat.
- Egg White Scramble: Similar to an omelet but less structured, you can throw in any veggies or proteins you like.
- Frittata: Make a crustless quiche using egg whites and your choice of fillings.
- Egg White Wraps: Use cooked egg whites as a wrap for various fillings like chicken, vegetables, or cheese.
- Tempura: Use egg whites in the batter for a lighter, crispier tempura.
- Cocktails: Some classic cocktails like a Pisco Sour or Whiskey Sour use egg whites to create a frothy top.
- Royal Icing for Decorating: Used for intricate designs on cookies or cakes, this icing hardens as it dries.
- Fish and Meat Coating: Use egg whites as a binding agent for breading fish, chicken, or other meats.
- Clear Soup: Egg whites can be used to clarify broth, making it clear and more refined.
- Protein Smoothies: Add a boost of protein to your smoothies by including pasteurized egg whites.
Recipe Tips
- Freshness: Fresh egg whites whip up better than older ones, which is crucial for recipes like meringue and macaroons.
- Temperature: Room temperature egg whites whip to a greater volume than cold ones.
- Clean Utensils: Make sure your bowl and beaters are clean and grease-free, or the egg whites won’t whip properly.
- Stabilizers: A bit of cream of tartar or a drop of lemon juice can help stabilize whipped egg whites.
- Sugar: When making meringue or other sweet dishes, add the sugar gradually for the best texture.
- Salt: Avoid adding salt to egg whites before whipping, as it can destabilize the foam.
- Safety: For recipes where the egg whites remain raw, consider using pasteurized egg whites to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, there’s no shortage of ways to use up your leftover egg whites.
How Long Will Egg Whites Keep In The Fridge?
When adequately sealed in an airtight container, egg whites can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Fresh egg whites have a neutral odor, which can be used as a test if you are dubious of their quality.
Additionally, you can examine the consistency, which should be transparent and slightly viscous. Egg whites can be frozen for up to 12 months for extended storage. Always include a date on the container’s label to keep track of its freshness.
Bottom Line
Egg whites are not simply a byproduct of yolk-centric recipes; they offer a variety of sweet and savory culinary applications. Whether you’re preparing an airy pavlova, a silken cocktail, or a protein-packed egg white scramble, the options are varied and delectable.
By investigating the recipes and advice presented in this article, you can transform your leftover egg whites into culinary delights, thereby reducing waste and expanding your cooking repertoire.
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