How to Pasteurize Eggs: 14 Steps

Pasteurizing eggs is a process that can help eliminate harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella, without fully cooking the egg. This makes it safe to consume raw or undercooked eggs in recipes like mayonnaise, salad dressings, and homemade ice cream. Follow these 14 steps to pasteurize eggs safely and effectively.
1. Gather all the necessary equipment: a medium-sized pot, a digital thermometer, a slotted spoon, and a large bowl.
2. Fill the medium-sized pot with enough water to fully submerge your eggs.
3. Heat the water until it reaches 140°F (60°C). Use a digital thermometer to ensure that the temperature is accurate.
4. Once the water has reached 140°F (60°C), carefully lower your eggs into the pot using a slotted spoon. Be cautious not to crack any of the shells.
5. Maintain a steady water temperature of 140°F-145°F (60°C-63°C) during the entire pasteurization process. Adjust the stove’s heat as needed to maintain this temperature range.
6. Set a timer for three minutes once all your eggs are in the pot.
7. While your eggs are pasteurizing, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice and cold water.
8. Stir the water in your pot occasionally to ensure even heat distribution throughout the pasteurizing process.
9. When the timer goes off after three minutes, use the digital thermometer to confirm that all of your eggs have reached an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) before moving on to step 10.
10. Carefully remove each egg from the pot using a slotted spoon and immediately place them in your prepared ice bath.
11. Allow the eggs to chill for five minutes in the ice bath before removing them.
12. Thoroughly dry your pasteurized eggs by placing them on a clean towel or paper towel.
13. Once dry, store your pasteurized eggs in the refrigerator just as you would with regular raw eggs.
14. Use pasteurized eggs within a week for optimum freshness and safety.
By following these 14 simple steps, you can enjoy the added safety and versatility of pasteurized eggs in your favorite recipes without the worry of consuming harmful bacteria. Happy cooking!