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When you think of eggs, you probably think about all the ways eggs embellish our diet-scrambled, boiled, poached, or fried. However, beyond such methods, there is another superpower of eggs from the kitchen-the egg wash. World Egg Day on 11th October reminds us of the incredible versatility and nutrition eggs provide in global diets. No wonder, after all, eggs are among the important proteins in kitchens across the world and among the easiest foods to afford and access. Whether you’re baking, frying, or preparing a golden, glossy finish on your dishes, an egg wash can take your recipe from good to great. It’s one of those small, often overlooked steps that add a professional touch to home-cooked meals. Ever wonder why your pastry is not looking perfect or your bread does not have that perfect shiny, golden crust? The answer might be in the simple yet effective technique of an egg wash. So, let us understand what an egg wash is and how to use it with different recipes.
What is an Egg Wash?
Egg wash is simply a whisked combination of eggs, which can be in milk, water, or cream. This is then brushed onto the surface of food that is intended to be baked or fried; these combinations help result in the golden-brown colour and provide sheen and can also aid in bonding ingredients together for some baked products. The combination of egg proteins and fats helps develop a desirable texture on baked goods, giving them an appetising appearance. A favourite hit that you can't ever go wrong with whether you're baking pies, bread and pastries or as a game changer for savoury recipes like fried chicken.
There are several types of egg wash, depending on the finish you wish to achieve. A wash made with whole eggs gives a more golden gloss finish, while an egg yolk wash adds that deep, golden colour. You end up with a more pale but shiny finish when you use just the whites.
How to Make Egg Wash
It takes only a minute or so to prepare an egg wash. This is a general recipe:
Crack one egg into a small bowl.
Beat the egg with a fork or whisk until the egg is mixed well.
Add a tablespoon of milk, cream, or water if you want your glaze shiny and runny.
Your egg wash is ready to apply!
For special finishes:
Shiny golden: Use a whole egg and add milk or cream.
Rich gold: Use only egg yolk and a dash of milk.
Shiny pale: Use only egg whites.
How to Use Egg Wash for Different Recipes
Egg wash can be applied in many ways, depending on what recipe you are preparing. Here's how to use it for different recipes:
Pastries and Pies
Brush egg wash over the top of pastries or pies before baking for that classic golden crust. For deep richness, use yolk mixed with a splash of milk. If you're working with something as delicate as puff pastry, use a whole egg for a light shine.
Bread and Rolls
Applying an egg wash on your bread dough before baking brings about a shiny and just slightly crisp appearance to the crust of the bread. You will get to use a whole egg for it. If you want a more rustic appearance, then you can omit adding milk and use only the beaten egg.
Fried Chicken Style Savoury Recipes
Egg wash isn't only for baked goods; it often helps get the breadcrumbs or flour to stick onto meats like chicken or fish before frying. This really creates a crispy, golden coat. When wanting to have an extra crunchy texture, feel free to dip your meat into flour, then egg wash, and finish off with a breadcrumb coating before you fry them up.
Seal the edges in pies or dumplings
You use egg wash for sealing the edges of pies, turnovers, and even dumplings. Applying a little amount of egg wash on the edges helps bind the dough so that your filling does not come out during baking.
Vegetable or Meat Glaze
Want to add a little shine and flavour to your roasted veggies or meat? Give them an egg wash for the last few minutes of roasting for that extra-golden colour.
Egg wash might be one of those little touches in cooking, but it can make a world of difference in both the appearance and texture of your dishes. Whether it's this World Egg Day, which falls on the same day each year as a celebration of eggs' versatility, or just otherwise, do try egg wash with some baking or cooking. It is an easy technique that elevates your creations from a homemade to a 'professional-looking' golden finish, which you've probably always admired.
