Tennessee's Favorite Pickled Eggs Recipe for Your Pantry

Pickled eggs are one of those nostalgic treats that carry a deep-rooted connection to the South, and Tennessee is no stranger to this time-honored tradition. Whether you're enjoying them as a snack, topping your salad, or serving them up with barbecue, pickled eggs have a way of bringing an extra punch of flavor to any dish. In Tennessee, this humble recipe has been passed down through generations, often served at family gatherings, potlucks, and even in neighborhood diners.

Photo byBing Images

The magic of pickled eggs lies in their tangy, slightly salty brine, which gives them that signature flavor. The beauty is that they can be tailored to your taste—spicy, garlicky, or even a touch sweet. Whether you’re preparing for a weekend cookout or just craving a snack, pickled eggs can be made ahead of time and stored for weeks. With a little patience, you’ll have a jar full of these flavor-packed delights ready to go!

Now, let’s dive into a traditional Tennessee-style pickled eggs recipe that will leave your taste buds dancing. This recipe is simple to follow, requiring minimal ingredients, and best of all, it's a great way to preserve eggs if you find yourself with a surplus.

Tennessee-Style Pickled Eggs Recipe

Ingredients:

• 12 hard-boiled eggs, peeled
• 1 1/2 cups white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon peppercorns
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 1 teaspoon turmeric (optional for color)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Eggs: Start by boiling the eggs. Once they’re fully cooked, allow them to cool, then carefully peel them.
2. Make the Brine: In a medium saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
3. Add Flavor: To the warm brine, add mustard seeds, peppercorns, bay leaf, red pepper flakes (if using), garlic, and turmeric. This will infuse the brine with additional flavor and color.
4. Pack the Jar: In a large glass jar or container, layer the hard-boiled eggs with slices of red onion. Make sure the jar is clean and dry. Pour the warm brine mixture over the eggs, ensuring they are completely submerged.
5. Refrigerate: Seal the jar with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate for at least 3 days. For the best flavor, let the eggs pickle for a week before eating.
6. Serve: Once the eggs have fully absorbed the flavors, they’re ready to be enjoyed! Slice them in half and serve them with salads, sandwiches, or just eat them straight from the jar for a tangy snack.

Pickled eggs are not only a flavorful snack, but they also pack a punch when it comes to convenience. You can store them in your refrigerator for up to a month, meaning you’ll always have a tasty treat on hand whenever you need one. Tennessee’s version of this classic pickled egg recipe adds a little local flair with the inclusion of apple cider vinegar, which gives the eggs a slightly sweet and tangy note. They pair perfectly with smoked meats, cornbread, and even a cold glass of sweet tea.

So next time you’re planning a picnic, hosting a barbecue, or just want to try your hand at an old-fashioned Southern recipe, give pickled eggs a shot. It’s a simple, satisfying way to bring a little bit of Tennessee tradition into your kitchen.

Did you try this recipe and love it? Let me know in the comments! Don’t forget to follow me for more mouthwatering recipes that bring a taste of the South to your table.

Sources:

Family Recipe