Water glassing is a simple and effective method for preserving your surplus eggs, ensuring a steady supply during the winter months. This process helps reduce dependency on weekly shopping trips and allows you to use more of what your homestead provides.
Largefood-safe container with a tight-fitting lid (e.g., glass jar, food-grade plastic container, crock, or enamelware)
Measuring utensils
Food scale
Instructions
Prepare the Lime Solution:
Dissolve 1 ounce (about 3 tablespoons) of pickling lime in 1 quart of clean, distilled water. Stir until the lime is completely dissolved. Prepare the Eggs:
Select fresh, unwashed eggs. Gently wipe off any visible dirt with a dry cloth or paper towel. Submerge the Eggs:
Place the eggs in a large, food-safe container. Pour the lime solution over the eggs, ensuring they are completely submerged. (Filling the container with the solution first prevents skin irritation and mess.) Seal and Store:
Cover the container with a tight-fitting lid. Store in a cool, dark place like a pantry, cellar, or basement. Properly stored, the eggs can remain fresh for 12-18 months.
Notes
Freshness of Eggs: For best results, use eggs that are no more than four days old. Fresh eggs have a higher quality and their natural protective coating (bloom) is most effective. Alternative Eggs: Besides chicken eggs, you can also water glass duck, guinea, goose, and pheasant eggs. Container Size: Half-gallon or full-gallon jars are ideal. You can also use a five-gallon bucket if you have a large supply of eggs and a big family.Safety Tips:Handling Calcium Hydroxide: Use food-grade calcium hydroxide and handle it carefully, as it can be irritating to the skin and harmful if inhaled. Storage: Use non-reactive, food-safe containers such as glass jars, crocks, or enamelware. Monitoring: Periodically check for any signs of spoilage such as off-putting odors or mold growth.