Did you know that 1 tbsp. (5.0 g) of dried egg contains only 30 calories? Dried eggs are a popular cooking ingredient that are made by removing the liquid from fresh eggs, making them a great option for long-term storage. In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value and benefits of dried eggs, as well as how to safely use and store them.

Dried eggs are a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin D, and iron. Since they are made by removing the liquid from fresh eggs, dried eggs are a more concentrated source of nutrients compared to fresh eggs.

If you're looking to add a convenient and nutrient-rich ingredient to your pantry, dried eggs may be a great option. Let's take a closer look at what they are and how they're made.

What are dried eggs?

Dried eggs are made by removing the water from fresh eggs through a process called spray drying. Once the water is removed, the eggs are ground into a fine powder that can be reconstituted with water when needed. This process removes the perishable nature of fresh eggs, making dried eggs a convenient option for storage and transportation. Unlike fresh eggs, dried eggs have a longer shelf life and don't need to be refrigerated, making them ideal for camping trips, backpacking, or emergency food storage. However, they do have a slightly different taste and texture compared to fresh eggs.

How are dried eggs made?

The process of making dried eggs starts with breaking fresh eggs and removing the yolk and white from the shell. The liquid egg is then filtered and mixed with an anti-foaming agent to prevent excessive foam buildup during the drying process. Next, the liquid egg is pumped into a spray dryer, where it is atomized into small droplets and exposed to a stream of hot air. This causes the water to evaporate, leaving behind dry egg solids. The egg solids are then sifted and ground into a fine powder, ready to be packaged and sold as dried eggs.

Nutritional value of dried eggs

Dried eggs are a good source of protein, with 1 tbsp. (5.0 g) containing about 3 grams of protein. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin D, and iron. However, since the drying process removes some of the water-soluble vitamins like vitamin B2 and B12, dried eggs are not as nutritionally complete as fresh eggs. Despite this, dried eggs are still a good source of nutrition, especially when used as a cooking ingredient in combination with other foods.

Calorie count of dried eggs

1 tbsp. (5.0 g) of dried eggs contains about 30 calories, which is slightly less than the 35 calories found in a fresh egg of the same size. However, since dried eggs are more concentrated, you need less of them to achieve the same nutritional content as a fresh egg. This means that by weight, dried eggs contain more calories than fresh eggs. When using dried eggs in cooking, it's important to pay attention to the recommended serving size and adjust accordingly to maintain a healthy calorie intake.

How to use dried eggs in cooking

Dried eggs can be used in any recipe that calls for fresh eggs, with a few minor adjustments. To reconstitute dried eggs, simply mix them with an equal amount of water (1 tbsp. dried eggs with 1 tbsp. water) and let them sit for a few minutes to thicken. Dried eggs are a great option for making scrambled eggs, omelettes, and quiches. They can also be used in baking recipes such as cakes, cookies, and breads. Check the package instructions for specific guidelines on how to use dried eggs, as they may vary by brand.

Benefits of using dried eggs

Dried eggs offer many benefits over fresh eggs, including a longer shelf life, reduced risk of spoilage, and increased convenience for storage and transportation. They are also a more affordable option compared to fresh eggs, especially in areas where fresh eggs are expensive or hard to come by. Dried eggs are also a more sustainable option since they don't require refrigeration or transportation in cold storage, reducing their carbon footprint.

Availability of dried eggs

Dried eggs can be purchased at many grocery stores and online retailers, either in the baking aisle or in the emergency preparedness section. They are typically sold in small packets or larger canisters and are available in either whole egg or egg white varieties. Some popular brands of dried eggs include Judee's Gluten Free, Augason Farms, and OvaEasy.

Safety concerns with dried eggs

Dried eggs are generally considered safe when used according to the package instructions. However, there is a risk of contamination from bacteria such as Salmonella if the eggs are not cooked properly or if they are stored improperly. To reduce the risk of contamination, make sure to cook dried eggs to the recommended temperature (160°F) and store them in a cool, dry place away from moisture and high temperatures.

Storage and shelf life of dried eggs

Dried eggs should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from moisture and high temperatures. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a year, but for best quality, it's recommended to use them within six months. Once reconstituted, dried eggs should be used immediately or refrigerated and used within three days.

Alternative options to dried eggs

If you don't have dried eggs on hand or prefer not to use them, there are several alternatives that can be used in recipes calling for eggs. Some options include applesauce, mashed bananas, yogurt, tofu, or flaxseed meal. Keep in mind that these substitutions may change the texture or flavor of the dish, so it's important to experiment and adjust accordingly.