Deviled eggs, a staple at American picnics and parties, have a long history that spans across the globe. While they’re a favorite in the United States, other countries have their own versions of this tasty snack. But have you ever wondered what the British call deviled eggs? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of deviled eggs, exploring their history, variations, and what they’re called in England.
A Brief History of Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs have been a part of human cuisine for thousands of years. The concept of filling boiled eggs with various ingredients dates back to ancient Rome, where they were served as a snack at social gatherings. The Romans are said to have filled their eggs with a mixture of yolks, herbs, and spices, which was then seasoned with vinegar and oil.
As the Roman Empire expanded, the concept of deviled eggs spread throughout Europe. The dish became popular in medieval Europe, where it was served at banquets and feasts. The filling ingredients varied depending on the region and social class, but the basic idea remained the same.
Deviled Eggs in America
Deviled eggs were introduced to America by European colonizers, who brought their own versions of the dish with them. The first written recipe for deviled eggs in America was found in a 1786 cookbook called “The Virginia Housewife” by Mary Randolph. The recipe, called “Deviled Eggs,” consisted of boiled eggs halved and filled with a mixture of yolks, butter, and mustard.
Over time, deviled eggs became a staple at American picnics, parties, and social gatherings. They were often served as a side dish or appetizer, and their popularity continued to grow throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.
What Do the British Call Deviled Eggs?
So, what do the British call deviled eggs? In the United Kingdom, deviled eggs are commonly known as “devilled eggs.” The spelling difference is due to the British English preference for using “double L” in words like “devilled” and “traveller.”
However, in some parts of the UK, deviled eggs are also referred to as “stuffed eggs” or “filled eggs.” This is because the term “devilled” can imply that the eggs are spicy or highly seasoned, which may not always be the case.
Regional Variations in the UK
While devilled eggs are enjoyed throughout the UK, there are some regional variations worth noting. In Scotland, devilled eggs are often served as part of a traditional dish called “Cullen Skink,” which consists of smoked haddock, potatoes, onions, and devilled eggs.
In Wales, devilled eggs are sometimes served with a side of “laverbread,” a traditional Welsh delicacy made from seaweed. In England, devilled eggs are often served at picnics and social gatherings, where they’re accompanied by other classic British dishes like sandwiches and scones.
Other International Variations
Deviled eggs are enjoyed in many countries around the world, each with their own unique twist. In France, deviled eggs are known as “oeufs mimosa” and are often served as an appetizer or side dish. The filling typically consists of yolks, mayonnaise, and chopped herbs like parsley and chives.
In Japan, deviled eggs are known as “ajitsuke tamago” and are often served as a side dish or snack. The filling typically consists of yolks, mayonnaise, and soy sauce, which gives the eggs a distinctive flavor.
Deviled Eggs in Other Cultures
Deviled eggs are also enjoyed in many other cultures around the world. In India, deviled eggs are known as “masala eggs” and are often served as a snack or appetizer. The filling typically consists of yolks, spices, and herbs like cumin and coriander.
In Mexico, deviled eggs are known as “huevos rellenos” and are often served as a side dish or snack. The filling typically consists of yolks, mayonnaise, and chopped herbs like cilantro and chili peppers.
Conclusion
Deviled eggs are a delicious and versatile snack that’s enjoyed in many countries around the world. While they’re known as “deviled eggs” in America, they’re called “devilled eggs” in the UK. Whether you’re in the US, UK, or elsewhere, deviled eggs are a great way to add some flavor and excitement to your next picnic or social gathering.
So next time you’re planning a party or picnic, consider serving deviled eggs as a side dish or appetizer. With their rich history, versatility, and delicious flavor, it’s no wonder why deviled eggs remain a popular snack around the world.
Recipe: Classic Devilled Eggs
If you’re looking to try your hand at making devilled eggs, here’s a classic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped herbs like parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions:
- Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
- In a bowl, mash the yolks with a fork until they’re well broken up.
- Stir in the mayonnaise, mustard, and horseradish until the mixture is smooth.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spoon the yolk mixture back into the egg white halves.
- Sprinkle with chopped herbs like parsley or chives, if desired.
- Serve the devilled eggs chilled, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
This recipe makes 6 devilled eggs, which should be enough for a small gathering or party. You can easily double or triple the recipe if you need to feed a larger crowd. Enjoy!
What are deviled eggs called in the UK?
In the United Kingdom, deviled eggs are commonly referred to as “devils on horseback” or simply “stuffed eggs.” However, the term “deviled” is also widely used and understood, especially in more formal or traditional settings.
The use of different names for deviled eggs in the UK can be attributed to regional variations and personal preferences. While some people may use the term “devils on horseback” to refer to a specific variation of the dish, others may simply call them “stuffed eggs” or “deviled eggs” without any distinction.
What is the origin of deviled eggs?
The origin of deviled eggs is unclear, but it is believed to date back to ancient Rome, where eggs were stuffed with a mixture of yolks, herbs, and spices. The concept of deviled eggs was also popular in medieval Europe, where they were served as a snack or appetizer at banquets and feasts.
Over time, deviled eggs evolved and spread to different parts of the world, with various cultures adapting the recipe to suit their tastes and ingredients. In the United States, deviled eggs became a staple at picnics, barbecues, and other social gatherings, while in the UK, they were often served at tea parties and other formal events.
What is the difference between deviled eggs and stuffed eggs?
While the terms “deviled eggs” and “stuffed eggs” are often used interchangeably, there is a subtle difference between the two. Deviled eggs typically refer to eggs that have been halved and filled with a spicy or savory mixture, often containing ingredients like mustard, mayonnaise, or chili peppers.
Stuffed eggs, on the other hand, can refer to eggs that have been filled with a variety of ingredients, not necessarily spicy or savory. Stuffed eggs can be made with ingredients like cheese, herbs, or even sweet ingredients like fruit or chocolate. In the UK, the term “stuffed eggs” is often used to describe eggs that have been filled with a milder or more delicate mixture.
How do you make deviled eggs?
To make deviled eggs, start by hard-boiling eggs and cooling them. Once the eggs are cool, cut them in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks. Mash the yolks in a bowl with a fork until they are well broken up, then mix in ingredients like mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings.
Spoon the yolk mixture back into the egg white halves, mounding it slightly in the center. Sprinkle with paprika, chives, or other garnishes, and serve chilled. You can also customize your deviled eggs by adding ingredients like diced vegetables, pickles, or capers to the yolk mixture.
Can you make deviled eggs ahead of time?
Yes, deviled eggs can be made ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble them just before serving. You can hard-boil the eggs and prepare the yolk mixture up to a day in advance, but it’s best to fill the eggs and garnish them just before serving.
If you need to make deviled eggs ahead of time, consider preparing the yolk mixture and storing it in the refrigerator overnight. Then, fill the eggs and garnish them just before serving. This will help ensure that the eggs stay fresh and the filling stays creamy.
How do you store deviled eggs?
Deviled eggs should be stored in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and safe to eat. Cover the eggs with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate them at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
If you’re transporting deviled eggs to a picnic or other outdoor event, consider using a cooler with ice packs to keep them chilled. Deviled eggs can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to a day, but it’s best to consume them within a few hours of making them for optimal flavor and texture.
Are deviled eggs a healthy snack?
Deviled eggs can be a nutritious snack, but they can also be high in calories and fat depending on the ingredients used. Eggs are a good source of protein and vitamins, but adding ingredients like mayonnaise and mustard can increase the calorie count.
To make deviled eggs a healthier snack, consider using lower-fat ingredients like Greek yogurt or cottage cheese instead of mayonnaise. You can also add ingredients like chopped vegetables or herbs to increase the nutritional value of the dish. Just be mindful of portion sizes and ingredients to keep your deviled eggs a healthy and balanced snack.