Eggs are popular staple products worldwide that you can enjoy in various ways. Its versatility in the kitchen has consistently come to the fore over the years and has become an essential ingredient in many meals. However, with the recent increase in the price of eggs, you should rethink your options. The Consumer Price Index, released on January 12, 2023, indicated that the price of eggs has skyrocketed by almost 60% from December 2021 to December 2022. Further, the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis stated that one dozen large eggs cost about $4.25 on average.
CBS News has hinted at a flu outbreak to this recent increase in the price of eggs, coupled with the increased demand for eggs by many persons and families. In light of all the recent developments, it is essential for one not to put all of one’s eggs in a basket and further explore some of the best substitutes for eggs. This article does justice to that as we explore some additional reasons you may want to ease up on your use of eggs and some of the best substitutes for eggs.
Reasons Why You May Need to Replace Eggs
- Egg allergy: Statistics have indicated that eggs are the most common food allergy in the United States. Another study, however, revealed that 50% of children eventually outgrow the allergy at three years of age, with about 66% eventually outgrowing it by age five.
- Vegan Diet: Further, the strict adherence to a vegan diet implies that such a person does not eat meat, dairy, egg, or other animal-derived products.
Ten Impressive Egg Substitutes
- Applesauce: Applesauce is made from cooked apples and may be sweetened or flavored with other spices, such as cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Mashed Bananas: Further, mashed bananas are popular replacements for eggs. However, this alternative may have a slight downside, as your finished product may have a mild banana flavor.
- Ground flaxseed or chia seed: These seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and other distinct plant compounds. These seeds can be excellent replacements for eggs, and you can get the best of these seeds by grinding these seeds at home. Alternatively, you may buy ready-made seed meals from the store.
- Commercial egg replacer: Additionally, these egg replacers are unique alternatives that come in various forms. These egg replacers are made from potato starch, leavening agents, and tapioca starch.
- Silken tofu: the final product of processed and pressed soy milk, tofu is an excellent substitute for eggs. This product has a high water content and initially characterizes a soft consistency; therefore, the more volume of water you press out of the tofu, the firmer the tofu.
- Vinegar and baking soda: This egg replacement works best for cakes, cupcakes, and quick bread. Once you mix the vinegar and baking soda, a chemical reaction occurs, producing carbon dioxide and water. This ensures that the bread is light and airy.
- Yogurt or buttermilk: Both of these products are suitable replacements for eggs. This alternative is ideal for plain yogurt or buttermilk, as sweetened varieties may modify the recipe’s flavor.
- Arrowroot Powder: Arrowroot powder is a solid alternative to eggs from South America with a high starch volume. This product is extracted from the roots of the arrowroot plant, and you can use it for cooking, baking, and a host of other things.
- Aquafaba: This liquid is found in canned chickpeas or beans and has the same consistency as raw egg whites, making it a substitution for many recipes.
- Nut Butter: Finally, you can use nut butter such as cashew and almond butter to replace eggs.
