Eggs are one of the simplest and richest sources of naturally available protein, and they are also one of the most popular and affordable foods. They are popular breakfast food because they not only provide protein but also calcium and vitamin D along with their amazing taste. However, while chicken eggs are the most commonly consumed, there are eggs from other birds that are used in a variety of cuisines, some of which are extremely expensive.
So, if you love eggs and are ready to branch out, here is a list of expensive and interesting eggs that will set you on an eggciting culinary adventure.
1. Gull Eggs
This British delicacy is so popular that the market can never keep up with the supply of gull eggs. These eggs are a rare commodity that is available for only four weeks out of the year, making them an expensive delicacy. These eggs are rich in flavour and taste best when soft-boiled. A single egg can cost as much as 800 INR.
2. Quail Eggs
Quail eggs are small and delicate, with beautiful pale shells flecked with deep brown. They are a treat for the eyes as well as the palate. Quail eggs have a similar nutritional profile to chicken eggs, but they contain more vitamin B12 and iron per gram.
Scramble, fry, boil, bake, and even pickle them - just use 4 or 5 quail eggs instead of one chicken egg, also the cooking time will be much shorter compared to chicken eggs.
3. Emu Eggs
Emu eggs are prized for their stunning deep blue-green shells, which resemble a massive avocado. They have a mild flavour and are ideal for omelettes and frittatas when you need to feed a large group of people. Alternatively, crack an egg and fry it in hot oil to create a fun fried egg centrepiece for a special breakfast.
4. Duck Eggs
If you can get your hands on some duck eggs, you're in for a treat. Chefs prize them because they have a much larger and richer yolk than chicken eggs. Furthermore, because of the more varied diet of the average duck, they have a higher concentration of nutrients (especially protein).
Duck eggs are approximately 50% larger than hen eggs. The shell colour varies by breed and can range from pale silver-grey to brown and green to almost black.
5. Pheasant Eggs
Pheasant eggs are approximately half the size of hen eggs. They're not only delicious, but they're also high in nutrients, especially vitamins B1 and B2, D, and E.
They have a richer flavour than chicken eggs and make an excellent substitute; they're especially tasty when hard-boiled and make an excellent snack. Pheasant eggshells can be a deep brown or olive green colour.