The Delish Secrets Behind Why Stuffed Eggs Are Called 'Deviled Eggs'

Deviled eggs! That iconic appetizer that’s perfect for parties and potlucks. But have you ever wondered why they’re called 'deviled eggs'? It's a story that goes back to the 1700s and involves a mix of culinary tradition and cultural lore. Let's peck through the layers to uncover the history and meaning behind this dish.

A Culinary Term from the 1700s

The term 'deviled' was a common descriptor for spicy or zesty foods in the 1700s. When eggs were prepared in a way that included a healthy amount of mustard and pepper, they took on this flavorful, fiery essence. This made them a hit and they got their name around 1786 in the United States. So, the next time you add a spicier kick to your deviled eggs, you can do it with a little more historical context in your arsenal!

Hot and Spicy, Like Hell

InEngland, the term 'deviled' often referred to dishes that were made to be hot and spicy. Interestingly, the supposed 'domain' of the Devil is said to be very hot, a concept that adds a layer of dark humor and myth to the name. Whether or not there's a connection, the term 'hell' in this context is often used metaphorically to describe the spiciness and heat. Just think of deviled eggs as a little bit of the fiery realm on your plate.

The Story Behind the Deviled Egg

The origin of this dish is clouded in culinary history, but one tale centers around schoolteacher Leslie Foxcroft, who popularized the dish in the early 20th century. In a segment on the cooking show Good Eats with Alton Browning, we learn that Foxcroft may have been the first to put deviled eggs on a restaurant menu. Foxcroft took sidesauce eggs (a more mild version of the dish) and transformed them into a more boldly spiced and flavored dish. She added mustard and pepper, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Health Benefits and Preparation Techniques

Deviled eggs aren't just about taste. They also offer several health benefits. Eggs are a good source of high-quality protein, choline, and essential vitamins and minerals. By using ingredients like mustard, horseradish, or spicy mayonnaise, you can make these eggs a healthier choice by reducing cholesterol without sacrificing flavor. Here’s a simple recipe for classic deviled eggs:

Deviled Egg Recipe

Hard-boil the eggs for 10 minutes, then cool them in ice water.

Peel and halve the eggs lengthwise. Scoop out the egg yolks into a bowl, and mix in 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, a teaspoon of mustard, and a pinch of pepper or cayenne pepper.

Stuff the eggs with the yolk mixture, or use a piping bag to create neat and tidy deviled eggs.

Chill the deviled eggs before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Conclusion

The story of why deviled eggs are so named is a great example of how language and food are intertwined. From the fiery heat of the 1700s to the devilish connotations of 19th-century British cuisine, and the schoolteacher who made them popular, deviled eggs have a rich history that continues to captivate cooks and food enthusiasts alike.