When it comes to adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to your meals, few ingredients can rival the humble quail egg. These tiny, creamy orbs may be small in size, but they pack a big punch when it comes to flavor and presentation. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer or a delicious addition to your brunch menu, quail eggs are the perfect ingredient to add some gourmet flair.
From classic deviled quails to innovative fusion dishes, there’s no shortage of creative ways to enjoy these bite-sized delights. In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey around the world and explore 18 delectable quail egg recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. From savory stir-fries to rich risottos, we’ve got you covered with a variety of flavors and textures to suit every taste. So go ahead, get cracking (pun intended!), and discover the many wonders of the quail egg.
Deviled Quail Eggs with Truffle Oil
Add a touch of luxury to your next gathering with these decadent deviled quail eggs infused with the deep, earthy flavor of truffle oil. Perfect for parties or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 dozen large quail eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon truffle oil
– Paprika, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Hard-boil the quail eggs and cool them to room temperature.
2. Cut each egg in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks from their whites.
3. In a bowl, mash the yolks with a fork until smooth. Add the Dijon mustard, horseradish, mayonnaise, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of the yolk mixture into each egg white half.
5. Drizzle the truffle oil over the deviled eggs and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quail Egg Benedict with Hollandaise Sauce
Elevate your brunch game with this decadent twist on the classic Eggs Benedict, featuring quail eggs and a rich Hollandaise sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 quail eggs
– 4 English muffins, toasted
– 4 Canadian bacon slices
– 1 cup Hollandaise sauce (see recipe below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Hollandaise Sauce:
– 1/2 cup egg yolks
– 1/2 cup melted butter
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toast the English muffins and cook the Canadian bacon until lightly browned.
3. Poach the quail eggs by cracking them into a simmering pot of water; cook for 3-4 minutes or until whites are set.
4. To assemble, place a toasted English muffin half on a plate, top with a slice of Canadian bacon, a poached quail egg, and spoon some Hollandaise sauce over the top.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Spicy Korean Quail Egg Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the creamy richness of quail eggs with the bold flavors of Korea’s famous chili flakes, gochugaru. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, this spicy stir-fry is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 quail eggs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack quail eggs into a bowl and whisk lightly.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
4. Pour in quail egg mixture; cook until eggs are just set, about 30 seconds.
5. Sprinkle gochugaru, soy sauce, salt, and pepper; stir-fry for another 30 seconds.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Quail Egg and Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this simple yet elegant recipe that combines the creamy richness of avocado with the savory delight of quail eggs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 quail eggs, hard-boiled and halved
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1 baguette, toasted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Toast the baguette until lightly browned.
2. Spread a layer of mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Arrange the halved quail eggs on top of the avocado.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add red pepper flakes if desired for an extra kick.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Japanese Quail Egg Sushi Rolls
A unique twist on traditional sushi, these Japanese Quail Egg Sushi Rolls combine the delicate flavor of quail eggs with the classic simplicity of sushi rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese Quail eggs, sliced
– 1/2 cup short-grain sushi rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt to taste
– Nori seaweed sheets (about 10-12 sheets)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, sugar, and salt. Mix with cooked sushi rice until well combined.
3. Cut nori seaweed sheets in half lengthwise.
4. Place a small amount of sushi rice onto the center of each nori sheet, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place 2-3 slices of quail eggs on top of the rice.
6. Roll the nori and filling into a tight cylinder using your fingers or a bamboo sushi mat.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Quail Egg Scotch Eggs with Sausage
Elevate your classic scotch egg game by incorporating quail eggs and savory sausage for a delightful twist on a breakfast staple. This recipe is perfect for brunch or as a unique snack.
Ingredients:
– 12 quail eggs
– 4-6 sausage links (any variety, such as chorizo or breakfast sausage)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Wrap each quail egg with a piece of sausage, making sure to cover the entire egg.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add milk until a smooth batter forms.
4. Dip each sausage-covered quail egg into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated.
5. Fry the scotch eggs for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil with paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Pickled Quail Eggs with Beetroot
Elevate your brunch game with this sweet and tangy recipe that combines the richness of quail eggs with the earthiness of beetroot.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 quail eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1 large beetroot, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the beetroot slices to the pickling liquid and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Place the quail eggs in a clean glass jar with the cooled beetroot mixture. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including cooling time)
Quail Egg and Mushroom Risotto
A rich and savory Italian-inspired dish that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the delicate flavor of quail eggs, all wrapped up in a creamy Arborio rice base.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 4 quail eggs, hard-boiled and quartered
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and mushrooms in olive oil until tender.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. If using wine, add it to the rice mixture and cook until absorbed.
5. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the rice mixture, stirring until absorbed. Repeat this process until all broth is used, about 20-25 minutes.
6. Stir in butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with quail eggs and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quail Egg Shakshuka with Feta
A twist on the classic Middle Eastern dish, this quail egg shakshuka combines the richness of feta cheese with the simplicity of a sunny-side up quail egg.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 medium-hot peppers, diced
– 1 can of crushed tomatoes (14 oz)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 4 quail eggs
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced red bell pepper and hot peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Create four wells in the tomato mixture and crack a quail egg into each well.
7. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the eggs.
8. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Thai-Style Quail Egg Omelette
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this simple yet impressive quail egg omelette, perfectly seasoned with chilies and herbs. This recipe is a great addition to any breakfast or brunch menu.
Ingredients:
– 6 quail eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon Thai red chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Crack the quail eggs into a bowl and whisk together with a fork.
2. Heat the oil in a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Pour the egg mixture over the onion mixture and cook until the edges start to set.
4. Sprinkle the Thai red chili flakes and salt to taste.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the omelette in half.
6. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the eggs are cooked through.
7. Slide onto a plate and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Quail Egg and Bacon Sliders
These bite-sized burgers are a perfect combination of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors. A delicate quail egg and crispy bacon add luxurious touches to these delectable sliders.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of slider buns
– 12-15 quail eggs
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup of caramelized onions (see note)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook the bacon until crispy, flipping halfway through. Drain on paper towels.
3. Grill the quail eggs for about 30 seconds per side, until slightly charred.
4. Assemble the sliders by spreading mayonnaise on each bun, topping with a cooked quail egg, a slice of bacon, and a spoonful of caramelized onions.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total, including prep time.
Quail Egg Carbonara Pasta
A creamy and rich pasta dish infused with the delicate flavor of quail eggs, perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 4 quail eggs, hard-boiled and diced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced quail eggs and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly set.
3. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine with quail eggs. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with quail egg mixture.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quail Egg and Spinach Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy richness of quail eggs with the earthy flavor of spinach, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish. With its delicate balance of textures and flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 quail eggs
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Hard-boil the quail eggs and slice them in half.
2. Wash and dry the spinach leaves.
3. In a large bowl, combine the sliced quail eggs, spinach leaves, and cherry tomatoes.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Vietnamese Quail Egg Banh Mi
This recipe combines the richness of quail eggs with the crispy freshness of a traditional Vietnamese banh mi sandwich. With its sweet and savory flavors, this twist on the classic sandwich is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 dozen quail eggs
– 4 baguettes (preferably crusty Vietnamese-style)
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup pickled carrots and daikon radish
– 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup sliced cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the quail eggs for 10-12 minutes, then chill in an ice bath.
2. Slice the baguettes in half lengthwise and toast until crispy.
3. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each baguette.
4. Top with a quail egg, a dollop of sriracha sauce, pickled carrots and daikon radish, cucumber slices, and cilantro.
5. Place the top half of the baguette on each sandwich and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including boiling time)
Quail Egg and Cheese Croquettes
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized treats that combine the richness of quail eggs and melted cheese within a crispy exterior. Perfect for parties or a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 quail eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together chopped quail eggs, grated cheese, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add the flour, paprika, and black pepper to the bowl and stir until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 12-15 portions, depending on desired size.
4. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into an oval shape.
5. Dip each croquette in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the croquettes for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy.
8. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quail Egg Fried Rice with Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines quail eggs, fresh vegetables, and savory seasonings for a delicious and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 4-6 quail eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Push the onion mixture to one side of the pan. Crack the quail eggs into the other side and scramble them until cooked through.
4. Mix the eggs with the onion mixture, then add the cooked rice, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir-fry everything together for about 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps of rice.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spanish Quail Egg Tortilla
Spanish Quail Egg Tortilla: A Twist on the Classic Spanish Omelette
This recipe combines the rich flavors of quail eggs and cured ham with the simplicity of a traditional tortilla. The result is a deliciously savory and satisfying snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 quail eggs
– 1/4 cup diced cured ham (such as jamón)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, beat the quail eggs with a fork until well mixed.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced ham and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in the beaten eggs and cook until the edges start to set, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Use a spatula to gently lift and fold the edges of the tortilla towards the center, allowing uncooked egg to flow to the edges.
7. Cook for another 2-3 minutes or until the eggs are almost set.
8. Serve hot, sliced into wedges.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quail Egg and Smoked Salmon Canapés
These bite-sized canapés combine the richness of quail eggs with the smoky flavor of salmon, perfect for a elegant gathering or cocktail party. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be serving stylish appetizers in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 quail eggs
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the quail eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
3. In a bowl, mix together the egg yolks, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture onto toasted baguette slices or crackers.
5. Top each canapé with a piece of flaked salmon and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (for toasting baguette slices)
Summary
Elevate your cooking with these 18 mouth-watering quail egg recipes! From classic deviled quail eggs to adventurous dishes like spicy Korean stir-fries and Japanese sushi rolls, there’s something for every palate. Indulge in rich quail egg benedict with hollandaise sauce or try a quail egg and avocado toast for a healthier twist. Get creative with quail egg scotch eggs with sausage, pickled quail eggs with beetroot, and many more dishes that showcase the versatility of these tiny but mighty eggs.