Ostrich Egg

Ostrich eggs, an exotic and intriguing ingredient, are a culinary delight waiting to be explored. Hailing from the world’s largest bird, ostrich eggs are not only impressive in size but also offer a distinctive flavor and numerous health benefits. In this guide, we will uncover the culinary potential of ostrich eggs, their nutritional value, and tips for cooking and storage.

Ostrich eggs are the largest eggs produced by any living bird, weighing around 1.4 to 2.3 kg (3 to 5 lbs) and equivalent to approximately 24 chicken eggs in volume. The eggshell is thick and hard, with a creamy-white color and a smooth surface. The taste of ostrich egg is similar to that of a chicken egg but with a creamier texture, making it an exciting alternative for those seeking novelty in their cooking. Ostrich eggs can be used in a variety of dishes, both sweet and savory, just like chicken eggs.

health benefits of ostrich egg

• Rich in protein: Ostrich eggs are a great source of high-quality protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, maintaining muscle mass, and supporting overall health.
• Lower in cholesterol: Compared to chicken eggs, ostrich eggs contain less cholesterol per serving, making them a healthier option for those monitoring their cholesterol intake.
• Good source of vitamins and minerals: Ostrich eggs provide various essential nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin E, and B vitamins, as well as minerals like iron, calcium, and phosphorus, which contribute to overall health and well-being.

international dishes using ostrich egg

Ostrich Egg Frittata: A delicious and filling Italian-style omelet made with vegetables, cheese, and herbs, using an ostrich egg as a unique twist.

Ostrich Egg Shakshuka: A North African and Middle Eastern dish featuring poached ostrich egg in a spicy tomato sauce, served with crusty bread.

Ostrich Egg Scramble: A simple and satisfying dish, with scrambled ostrich egg and your choice of mix-ins like cheese, vegetables, or bacon.

Ostrich Egg Soufflé: A light and airy French dish that showcases the impressive volume of ostrich egg whites when whipped to stiff peaks.

Ostrich Egg Custard: A sweet, creamy dessert made by baking a mixture of ostrich egg, milk, sugar, and vanilla until set.

Ostrich Egg Shakshuka

cooking tips:

• Crack with care: Due to their thick shell, ostrich eggs require more force to crack. Use a hammer or the back of a heavy knife to create a hole in the shell, and then carefully pour the contents into a bowl.
• Adjust recipes accordingly: When using an ostrich egg in place of chicken eggs, remember that one ostrich egg is equivalent to approximately 24 chicken eggs. Adjust recipes as needed to accommodate the difference in volume.
• Monitor cooking time: Ostrich eggs have a higher water content than chicken eggs, which may affect cooking times. Keep an eye on your dishes and adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Whip whites for volume: Ostrich egg whites can be whipped to create impressive volume, making them an excellent choice for soufflés and meringues.
• Use fresh eggs: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh ostrich eggs in your cooking. Check the freshness by placing the egg in a bowl of water; a fresh egg will sink, while an older egg will float.

Nutrition facts:

Calories: 140 kcal

Protein: 14g

Total Fat: 9g

Saturated Fat:2.5g

Monounsaturated Fat: 3g

Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g

Cholesterol: 470mg

Vitamin A: 260 IU

Vitamin E: 2mg

Vitamin B12: 1.1µg

Iron: 2.6mg

Calcium: 55mg

Phosphorus: 200mg

Storage instructions:

•  Store at room temperature: Fresh, uncracked ostrich eggs can be stored at room temperature for up to 30 days.Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Refrigerate cracked eggs: Once an ostrich egg is cracked, its contents should be refrigerated as soon as possible. Place the egg in a covered container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze for long-term storage: If you don’t plan to use the ostrich egg right away, you can freeze the contents. Separate the yolk and white, and place them in separate airtight containers or freezer bags. Frozen ostrich egg yolks and whites can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.
• Store cooked dishes properly: Leftover dishes made with ostrich egg should be stored in airtight containers and refrigerated within 2 hours of cooking. Consume cooked ostrich egg dishes within 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Ostrich eggs present a unique and exciting opportunity for culinary exploration, offering a distinctive taste and texture that will delight your taste buds. By incorporating ostrich eggs into your cooking, you’ll be embracing a lesser-known, nutritious ingredient that has been cherished in various cultures around the world. So why not step out of your comfort zone and embrace the world of ostrich eggs? Experiment with this versatile ingredient and let your creativity soar as you discover the delicious potential of ostrich eggs in your kitchen. It’s time to elevate your culinary experience with this extraordinary and healthy ingredient!