Crafting vibrant easter eggs: the natural dye revolution
I don't buy chemical dyes for eggs. I've been following this rule for years, and I've even convinced many of my friends to use natural methods. It's not difficult, and the results are truly spectacular.
Dyeing eggs is one of the oldest Easter traditions and also one of the most beautiful. The whole family, not just the children, can participate in preparing the Easter eggs. Eggs symbolize new life and rebirth, and according to folklore, colouring them in bright hues was believed to bring prosperity in the coming year. Stuffed eggs, a delicious Easter snack in 4 interesting variations
The advantages of natural dyes
Instead of using artificial dyes to prepare Easter eggs, it's worth using natural products. There are quite a few; they are inexpensive, and we often have them in the kitchen already. These include onions, spinach, turmeric, red cabbage, or beetroot. I usually choose the latter because pink eggs look beautiful in the Easter basket and on the holiday table. These vegetables, like other natural dyeing products, are free from preservatives and chemicals that can be harmful. It's also a nice return to tradition.
How to dye eggs with beetroot?
Beetroot has a characteristic, intense colour that easily transfers to the eggshell. Depending on the dyeing time and the effect you wish to achieve, it can provide a deep burgundy shade or just a delicate pink. The process is simple every time and also safe for health.
Eggs can be coloured with beetroot in two ways. In the first method, I used previously cooked hard-boiled eggs and immersed them in beet brine. The longer they stay in it, the more intense their colour will be. The second method involves boiling the eggs with the beetroot for about 10 minutes.
A simple brine is enough
To prepare the brine, you will need beetroot, water, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt. You can also add spices such as bay leaves and allspice. It is advisable to choose eggs with light shells, as they are easier to dye.
Egg dyeing brine
- Grate or finely chop 4-5 beetroot.
- Place them in a pot, cover with water, and add about 120 ml of vinegar.
- Cook raw eggs in the beet mix for about 7-10 minutes.
- Soak the cooked eggs in it until the desired shade is achieved.
It's also possible to give a pink colour to already cooked and peeled shelled eggs. Prepare the marinade the same way, but adding spices such as pepper and allspice is worth it. The eggs should be soaked in it for about 40 minutes. They will then have not only a pleasant colour but also an aroma. Pink eggs are ideal for stuffing.
