If you’re left with extra egg whites after making a recipe that only calls for yolks, don’t throw them away! Egg whites are versatile and can be used in many recipes, from sweet to savory.
Egg White Nutrition
Egg whites are a low-calorie and low-fat source of protein. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
However, most of the egg’s vitamins and minerals are found in the yolk, so it’s important to include whole eggs in your diet.
Baking with Egg Whites
Egg whites are a key ingredient in many classic baked goods. Here are some delicious treats you can make with egg whites:
Angel Food Cake
Angel food cake is a light and airy dessert made with whipped egg whites. The egg whites are whipped until stiff peaks form and then folded into a batter made with flour, sugar, and vanilla extract. The result is a fluffy and tender cake that’s perfect for any occasion.
Macarons
Macarons are delicate French cookies made with almond flour, powdered sugar, and egg whites. The egg whites are whipped until stiff peaks form and then folded into the almond flour mixture.
The resulting batter is piped onto baking sheets and baked until lightly crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside.
Meringue Cookies
Meringue cookies are a simple and elegant dessert made with egg whites and sugar. The egg whites are whipped until stiff peaks form and then sugar is gradually added until a glossy and firm mixture forms. The mixture is then piped onto baking sheets and baked until crisp on the outside and soft on the inside.
Pavlova
Pavlova is a meringue-based dessert that’s popular in Australia and New Zealand. The meringue is baked until crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, and then topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
Soufflé
A soufflé is a light and fluffy baked dish made with a base of egg yolks and whipped egg whites. The egg whites are whipped until stiff peaks form and then folded into a sauce made with butter, flour, and milk. The resulting mixture is baked until puffy and golden brown.
Marshmallows
Homemade marshmallows are made with egg whites, sugar, and gelatin. The egg whites are whipped until stiff peaks form and then mixed with sugar syrup that has been heated to the soft ball stage. The mixture is then combined with gelatin and whipped until fluffy and marshmallowy.
Cooking with Egg Whites
Egg whites are not just for baking. Here are some savory dishes that make great use of egg whites:
Egg White Omelette
An egg white omelette is a healthy and low-calorie breakfast option. Simply whisk egg whites with a little milk and cook them in a nonstick pan until set. Fill with your favorite vegetables and cheese for a tasty and filling breakfast.
Egg White Frittata
A frittata is a versatile dish that can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whip up some egg whites with a little milk and pour into a skillet with sautéed vegetables and cheese. Cook until set, and then finish off under the broiler for a golden and crispy top.
Other Uses for Egg Whites
Besides baking and cooking, egg whites have other creative uses:
Homemade Face Mask
Egg whites have skin-tightening and pore-reducing properties. Mix egg whites with lemon juice and apply to your face for a homemade face mask. Leave on for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse off with warm water for soft and glowing skin.
Cocktail Foam
Egg white foam can be used to top cocktails for a frothy and elegant touch. Simply shake together egg whites, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice.
Strain out the ice and shake again until frothy. Pour over your favorite cocktail for a beautiful and delicious finish.
FAQs
Yes, you can use store-bought egg whites for most recipes that call for egg whites.
Yes, you can freeze egg whites in an airtight container for up to 12 months.
It depends on the recipe, but in general, substituting egg whites for whole eggs will result in a lower-fat and lower-calorie dish.
Yes, egg whites are a good source of protein and contain all the essential amino acids.
No, whipped cream is made with heavy cream and sugar, not egg whites.
Conclusion
Egg whites are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. From classic baked goods to savory dishes to creative uses, there are many ways to use up extra egg whites.
So next time you find yourself with leftover egg whites, get creative in the kitchen and try out some of these delicious and fun recipes.
