5 Creative Ways to Use Leftover Egg Yolks: From Rich Sauces to Decadent Desserts
Egg yolks are rich in flavor, making them a versatile ingredient for various culinary creations. However, when you’re cooking, it might not always be possible to use all the egg yolks at once. Thankfully, leftover egg yolks do not have to go to waste – there are several creative ways to transform them into delightful recipes. In this article, we present five ingenious ideas for utilizing those extra egg yolks in sauces, desserts, and more.
Transform Them into a Rich Sauce
Hollandaise sauce: A classic French sauce that complements various dishes such as eggs Benedict and asparagus. To make this delectable creation, combine 100ml of melted clarified butter with lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and cayenne pepper. Whisk together two egg yolks in a heatproof bowl over simmering water until they are light yellow. Once the mixture begins to thicken, carefully pour in the melted butter while constantly whisking, ensuring the sauce is smooth and silky. Taste-test and adjust seasonings as needed.
Turn them into a Creamy Filling
Lemon meringue pie filling: For an unforgettable twist on the classic lemon pie, use leftover egg yolks to create the custard-like filling. To achieve this, whisk together 1/3 cup of sugar with a few tablespoons of cornstarch and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Add freshly squeezed lemon juice, zest, and water until the mixture thickens. Once it’s thick and smooth, take the pan off the heat, stir in egg yolks one by one, and return to the stove for a short while. Ensure not to boil but cook long enough to combine the ingredients well.
Create Unique Cocktails with them
Egg White Sour: This classic cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a twist on the traditional gin and tonic or whiskey sour. Start by combining two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, a teaspoon of simple syrup, and 30ml of your preferred spirit in a shaker with ice cubes. Add egg whites (roughly one-half of an egg yolk) into the shaker and shake it vigorously for at least a minute to emulsify and froth the mixture. Strain the drink into a chilled glass, garnish with a lemon twist or orange slice, and enjoy your unique take on this classic cocktail.
Incorporate them into Desserts
Egg yolk ice cream: This decadent dessert is sure to impress any chocolate lover. Start by melting 300g of dark chocolate and stir in half a cup of heavy cream until smooth. Next, whisk two egg yolks with sugar until the mixture turns pale yellow. Gently combine the melted chocolate mixture into the egg yolk-sugar mix while stirring continuously. Pour this blend into an ice cream maker or use the cold setting on your blender to whip it up into a dreamy dessert. Once frozen, serve in cones or small bowls, and enjoy a scrumptious treat made from those extra egg yolks.
Use them for Baking Goodies
Lemon poppy seed muffins: For an elegant and flavorful breakfast or snack, create these mouthwatering lemon poppy seed muffins. Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. In another bowl, combine melted butter, egg yolks, freshly squeezed lemon juice, grated lemon zest, and milk. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture while stirring until just combined. Add poppy seeds for texture and fold them in gently. Pour batter into prepared muffin tins and bake at 350°F (177°C) until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.