Cook, Learn, and Share to Fight Hunger.
 

Egg White

Egg whites, the clear liquid surrounding the yolk, are a culinary powerhouse that offers versatility and nutritional benefits in a nearly fat-free package. Often overshadowed by their golden counterparts, egg whites deserve a spotlight for their ability to create airy meringues, fluffy omelets, and even act as a binding agent in various dishes.

Introduction

While whole eggs offer a balanced nutritional profile, egg whites shine as a fat-free, cholesterol-free source of high-quality protein. This makes them a popular choice for those watching their cholesterol intake or seeking a lean protein source. Egg whites are also rich in essential nutrients like potassium, niacin, and riboflavin.

Culinary Uses

  • Meringue: The quintessential use, egg whites are whipped to create airy, cloud-like meringues, the base for desserts like pavlova and lemon meringue pie.
  • Angel Food Cake: A light and fluffy cake made almost entirely of whipped egg whites and sugar.
  • Soufflés: These savory or sweet dishes rely on the magical rising power of egg whites to create a delicate, airy texture.
  • Omelets and Frittatas: Egg whites create lighter, fluffier versions of these classic breakfast dishes.
  • Cocktails: Egg whites are used in cocktails like sours and fizzes to create a frothy, luxurious texture and a silky mouthfeel.
  • Macarons: These delicate French cookies require perfectly whipped egg whites to achieve their signature feet and chewy texture.
  • Glazes and Icings: Egg whites can be used to create shiny glazes for pastries and cookies.
  • Binding Agent: Egg whites help bind ingredients together in dishes like meatballs and veggie burgers.

Tips

  • Separation: Separate the whites from the yolks carefully, ensuring no yolk gets into the whites, as this can hinder whipping.
  • Room Temperature: Allow egg whites to come to room temperature before whipping for optimal volume.
  • Clean Bowl and Beaters: Ensure your bowl and beaters are spotlessly clean and free of any grease, as fat can prevent egg whites from whipping properly.
  • Cream of Tartar: A pinch of cream of tartar can help stabilize whipped egg whites and prevent them from collapsing.
  • Sugar: When making meringue, add sugar gradually after the egg whites have reached soft peaks.

A Brief History

The use of egg whites dates back centuries, with evidence of their use in ancient Roman and Egyptian cuisines. The earliest recorded recipe for meringue appears in a 17th-century French cookbook.

Nutritional Information

One large egg white contains approximately:

  • Calories: 17
  • Protein: 3.6 grams
  • Fat: 0 grams
  • Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
  • Vitamins: Riboflavin, niacin
  • Minerals: Potassium, magnesium, sodium
Food & Ingredients

Are the eggs good for you?

September 29, 2023

Are the eggs good for you? Eggs have been a dietary staple for centuries, and for good reason. They are nutritional powerhouses, packed with essential nutrients that contribute to overall health and well-being. Let’s delve into the remarkable benefits of incorporating eggs into your diet.

Read More
Chef Tom Chef Tom Founder

Don’t underestimate the power of the humble egg white. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, offering a wealth of nutritional benefits without the fat or cholesterol of the yolk.

Disclaimer

All content and information (including recipes, articles, and other materials) on CookingHub.com are the opinions of the authors and are not intended to provide dietary, medical, legal, or political advice. Consult with a professional before deciding to follow these opinions.

Authors and www.CookingHub.com (operated by CookingHub Foundation) are not responsible for any part of any possible outcome or its consequences, which include (but are not limited to):

  • Any health risk related to the handling of food, food quality, and/or not following USDA recommendations (including minimum safe serving temperatures and other guidelines).
  • Safety during preparation, including the handling of equipment and the equipment’s suitability for food preparation.
  • Improper performance of cooking techniques.
  • Sourcing of ingredients, providing tools, equipment, and anything else related to the preparation and consumption of the products of this recipe.
  • Nutritional data and information and diet-related information (and their accuracy). It is important to consult with your medical provider to ensure that the diet you are considering is suitable for you and to verify the information provided before proceeding.
  • The overall outcome of following recipes, including the look and taste of the final product.
  • Possible errors in articles and recipes (including incorrectly or unclearly explained steps and directions).
  • Typos.

All readers (users and visitors of www.CookingHub.com) are responsible for evaluating the recipes and articles and making their own decisions about whether to follow the steps and recommendations. They must ensure that the ingredients and steps fit with their dietary restrictions and avoid preparation methods that could pose a health risk due to an unsuitable diet.