Eggs

Eggs come in different sizes and colors depending on what type of chicken did the laying. The color of the yolk depends on the feed. It is against the law to feed chickens feed that is laced with color. Now we have eggs that are treated for salmonella, eggs with more vitamins, organic eggs, free range eggs. It's almost like buying toothpaste any more. I recommend organic eggs, no chemicals or hormones. When cooking or baking most recipes call for large eggs and if the recipe is very particular about the amount of eggs it will call for a liquid measure (1/2, 1/4 cup etc).

When buying eggs always check the box for broken or cracked eggs. Do not use an egg that is cracked or leaking. Eggs start to lose quality at room temperature so be sure and refrigerate them as soon as you get home (35 to 45 degrees keeps them fresh). I use an insulated bag to bring my eggs home packing them in with the frozen items to keep them cool.

In a carton of eggs, large, medium, small or whatever, the size classification is determined by the total weight of all of the eggs. In a dozen carton of eggs every egg does not weigh the same. Here is a table that gives the approximate weight of each size of egg:

As you can see eggs come in more sizes other than medium, large and extra large. There are Jumbo eggs, Extra Large Eggs, Large Eggs, Medium eggs, Small Eggs and Pee-Wee eggs. Pee wee eggs do not come from roosters or pigeons. There are several factors that influence the size of an egg, the main factor is the age of the hen. Pullets which are young hens just beginning to lay and are underweight at sexual maturity will lay pee wee eggs.

Eggs are graded according to Federal standards, the USDA: Grade AA, A, B and C (never have seen a grade "C" egg). Eggs sold at the retail level must be Grade B or better. Most Grade B eggs go to commercial bakers or food service institutions. Grade AA and A are good for frying, poaching and boiling. If you come across "B" eggs, they are good for cooking. I have no idea what "C" is as I can't seem to find any information on them other than the yolk lays very very flat.

All the information I have given you is in regards to eggs laid by chickens. If you are doing up a batch of turtle eggs, ostrich eggs or whatever you need to do your own research. If you really want to get serious about chicken eggs go to the American Egg Board's website. It's interesting and informative, it doesn't hurt to know your food.

Egg Size

Jumbo
Extra Large
Large
Medium
Small
Pee Wee

Ounces Per Dozen

30
27
24
21
18
15

Classic Egg Salad 1

Classic Egg Salad 2

Classic Omelet

Creamed Ham and Eggs

Deviled Ham Spicy Deviled Eggs

Egg and Smoked Salmon Salad

Egg Salad Casserole

Egg Sandwich

Eggs Continental

Eggs Florentine Casserole