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Natural Egg Dyeing Ideas

It’s that time of year when it is time to start preparing for Easter and spring! Whether you celebrate or not, it can be fun to participate in spring traditions like dyeing eggs and hiding Easter baskets!

Coloring Easter eggs can be a fun way to get the whole family involved. We have natural egg coloring kits available for purchase by Color Kitchen that contain no artificial ingredients and produce vibrant colored eggs from plant colors. They use cabbage to create a bluish-purple hue, radish for red/pink and annatto for orange/yellow colored eggs.

Eggs can also be dyed naturally using a variety of herbs, spices, fruits and vegetables as “dyestuff”. Experimenting is half of the fun, and here are some suggestions for natural “dyestuff” to get you started:

• Purple cabbage will turn white eggs bluish-purple and brown eggs green
• Turmeric powder will transform eggs to a deep gold color
• Yellow onion skins will make white eggs orange and brown eggs a rustic red/brown color
• Curry powder can turn white eggs a pale orange
• Beets or beet juice will make white eggs pink

There are many variations available to create beautiful natural-dyed eggs. Don’t be afraid to mix colors and try new things! If your eggs turn out not how you expected you can always enjoy them for a snack!

There are many different methods for naturally dyeing eggs. One of the easier methods is by using a hot bath.

In a large pot, place 4 C. water, 1 Tbsp. white vinegar OR cream of tartar, and your selected dyestuff. If you want to do multiple colors you will have to use separate pots.

Here are suggested dyestuff amounts:

• If using herbs and spices place 2-4 Tbsp. in the mixture
• If using fruits and vegetables use 1 C.

Bring the mixture to a boil and add your eggs. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, cover and let sit for an additional 15 minutes. If you want your eggs to have a more intense color you can let them sit for longer. When desired color is reached rinse with water and let air dry. You can also shine up finished eggs with vegetable oil to help bring the color out even more. Store finished eggs in the refrigerator until use or consumption. If you find your colors are not bright enough try adding more dyestuff before boiling.

Overall, I would recommend using the egg coloring kits from the Color Kitchen. It is easy to use, natural and produces beautiful colors. No matter what method you choose there are many ways to get even more creative with your egg decorating:

• Wrap eggs with rubber bands or strips of masking tape to make beautiful designs and patterns
• Use crayons to draw designs or messages on eggs, if you use a white crayon the mystery message will appear after you have dyed the egg

We currently have colorful Alaffia Easter baskets on sale for $13.99 (thru 4/15), that are handwoven and fair-trade.  Once you have your basket you can browse some fun goodies and treats that Valley Natural Foods has to offer like:

• Sunridge Farms Organic Jolly Beans
• YumEarth Gummy Bears, Organic Sour Beans and Organic Gummy Fruits

If you want to fill baskets with items other than sweets you can choose from things like:

• Fair-trade jewelry
• Klean Kanteen Stainless Steel Bottles
• rareESSENCE Aromatherapy Room Mists

Or you can pick up some Easter-Inspired Offerings in our deli to serve at you spring gathering such as:

• Easter Breakfast Casserole
• Quiches
• Hash Brown Casserole
• Bacon Carrot and Cabbage Slaw
• Decorated Easter Cakes and Cupcakes

Come in and see everything we have to offer to make your spring celebration a success!

 

 

Sources:

http://strongertogether.coop/food-lifestyle/cooking/naturally-dyed-eggs

https://whatscookingamerica.net/Eggs/EasterEggDye.htm

http://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-vibrant-naturally-dyed-easter-eggs-holiday-projects-from-the-kitchn-112957