For the best pickled quail eggs, it’s essential to start with perfectly boiled eggs. Quail eggs can be boiled similarly to hen eggs, but should be removed after just a couple of minutes for a soft boil, and around three minutes for a hard boil. As with hen eggs, transfer immediately to iced water after boiling, and peel once cool to the touch.
Vinegar is a key ingredient in the pickling process. The recipe above uses white wine vinegar, though this can be swapped for other varieties such as apple cider vinegar or sherry vinegar to adjust the flavor profile. Some chefs also incorporate beet juice to add a vibrant hue for a more striking presentation.
Paprika is featured in this version to help balance the flavors, though spicy pickled quail eggs are another popular variation. Ingredients like star anise or cinnamon sticks introduce bolder, spiced notes, while jalapeño peppers can be used for extra heat. There are countless combinations to experiment with when making the brine. Soy sauce may be added for a stronger umami taste, and a wide variety of herbs can be used to suit individual preferences.
To store pickled quail eggs safely, it’s important to sterilize the jars or containers used. Glass jars can be sterilized by boiling in a large pan of water for approximately 10 minutes. Be sure to include the lids in the process to ensure complete sterilization.
For best flavor, allow the eggs to marinate for at least a day before serving. However, letting them rest for a week or more will result in a deeper, more developed taste.
How to Serve It
Pickled quail eggs can be enjoyed in many ways. They make a protein-rich, flavorful snack straight from the jar, or can be served as a cocktail pairing—particularly with Dry martinis at the start of an elegant meal. These eggs also work well as toppings for various dishes, adding a gourmet touch to potato salads, leafy greens, or elevated egg sandwiches.
For a crowd-pleasing appetizer, arrange pickled quail eggs on a charcuterie board alongside cured meats and cheeses. Sliced quail eggs can also complement brunch favorites like avocado toast or be added to spicy noodle dishes for a flavorful twist.
Storage
When stored properly in sterilized jars, pickled quail eggs will keep for a few months. It’s important to ensure the eggs remain fully submerged in brine and that the jar is refrigerated. Discard the eggs if any signs of spoilage appear, such as a sour or sulfur-like odor, a dull appearance, or an unusual texture. When in doubt, prepare a fresh batch.
