In recent years, the demand for free-range eggs has surged, driven by a growing awareness of animal welfare and the quest for superior culinary experiences.
But there’s more to it than just the welfare of the birds. Free range eggs, produced by hens that roam freely outdoors, are, simply, better. They taste better, they’re better for use in cooking, and your family will notice the difference.
Why not see the difference for yourself? Grab some true free range eggs from Good & Fugly Extras with your next order and try some of the dishes below.
Why Free Range Matters
Free range eggs are often praised for their richer taste and creamier texture. The varied diet of free range hens, which includes insects, plants, and grains, contributes to the eggs’ enhanced flavour profile. This diversity in diet results in eggs that are not only more nutritious but also more enjoyable to eat.
They’re also proven to be healthier. Studies have shown that free range eggs contain higher levels of essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and vitamin E. These nutrients are crucial for maintaining good health and can significantly enhance the nutritional value of your dishes.
Finally – and this is particularly important to us at Good & Fugly - free range farming practices are not just better for the birds and your menu. They’re better for the environment, too. By allowing hens to roam freely, farmers can reduce the need for intensive feed production and lower the environmental footprint of egg production.
Omelette Cooking Techniques
Once you’ve got your order of free range eggs from Good & Fugly, the next step is in figuring out what you can do with them.
Sure, you can hard boil them, or cook them “as is” on a pan for breakfast. And you can use them as an essential ingredient in any number of cakes and pastries, but when you really want the egg to sing as an ingredient, then it’s hard to beat the omelette.
Here are three different approaches to omelette that will give you an all-new appreciation for what a good egg can do for a dish:
- French Omelette (Omelette Française)
The French omelette is a classic dish that highlights the delicate texture and flavour of free range eggs. This technique requires a bit of finesse but results in a beautifully soft and creamy omelette.
Ingredients:
- 3 free range eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
- The result is a tender, silky omelette Crack the eggs into a bowl, add a pinch of salt and pepper, and whisk until well combined.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and add the butter.
- Once the butter has melted and is slightly foamy, pour in the eggs.
- Using a spatula, gently stir the eggs in a circular motion, ensuring they cook evenly.
- As the eggs begin to set, stop stirring and let them cook undisturbed for a few seconds.
- Tilt the skillet to one side and fold the omelette in thirds, creating a neat, cylindrical shape.
- Slide the omelette onto a plate and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
that melts in your mouth, allowing the rich flavour of the free range eggs to shine through.
- Spanish Omelette (Tortilla Española)
The Spanish omelette, or tortilla española, is a hearty and satisfying dish that incorporates potatoes and onions. This technique showcases the versatility of free range eggs and creates a deliciously filling meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 free range eggs
- 2 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced potatoes and onions, and cook until they are tender and slightly golden, stirring occasionally.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Once the potatoes and onions are cooked, drain any excess oil and add them to the beaten eggs. Mix well.
- Return the skillet to the heat and add a little more olive oil if needed.
- Pour the egg mixture into the skillet, spreading it evenly.
- Cook on low heat until the edges start to set, then carefully flip the omelette using a plate or a large spatula.
- Continue cooking until the omelette is fully set and golden brown on both sides.
- Slide the omelette onto a plate and let it cool slightly before slicing.
The Spanish omelette is a robust and flavourful dish that highlights the quality of free range eggs, making it perfect for any meal of the day.
- Japanese Omurice
Omurice, a beloved Japanese comfort food, combines a fluffy omelette with fried rice, often seasoned with ketchup. This technique is a delightful way to enjoy free range eggs in a fusion dish that is both comforting and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 2 free range eggs
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 carrot, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot, and sauté until softened.
- Add the cooked chicken and rice to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Add the ketchup, salt, and pepper, and mix well. Cook for a few minutes until everything is heated through. Set aside.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt.
- Heat the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and cook, swirling the pan to create an even layer.
- When the eggs are mostly set but still slightly runny on top, place the fried rice mixture in the center of the omelette.
- Carefully fold the edges of the omelette over the rice to enclose it.
- Slide the omurice onto a plate, seam side down, and shape it into a neat oval. Optionally, drizzle with extra ketchup for garnish.
Omurice is a delightful fusion dish that showcases the versatility of free range eggs, combining the best of Japanese and Western culinary traditions.
In short, by choosing free range eggs, you not only enhance the taste and texture of your dishes but also support a more humane and sustainable food system. It’s good for you, good for the farmers, and good for the environment – free range eggs truly hit home for everything that matters to us at Good & Fugly.
