Naturally Dyeing Easter Eggs

With Easter coming around the corner we are probably sharing in the great tradition with our kids of dyeing Easter eggs. Well, did you know that you can dye Easter eggs with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen? This is such a fun way to get your kids involved of giving them a task of going around and collecting items in the kitchen and showing them the other fun aspects of food. It is also fun to play around with the recipes and play the guessing game, What color will it be? It's such a great way to celebrate Easter with beautiful eggs that have soft earthy colors that are completely unique.

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Things you are going to need to get started:

*White Vinegar

*Water

*Pots

*Eggs (White Eggs preferred)

*Vegetables, Herbs, Flowers, and Spices (whatever you are using around the house)

Hot Bath Method:

1) Bring 2 cups water, your coloring agent (whatever color you are using), 1 Tbsp. of white vinegar to a boil.

2) Add eggs and reduce to a simmer, cook for about 15-20 minutes. (If you are using this method make sure to add the eggs raw, they will cook in the hot bath).

3) Remove the eggs when desired color is reached and gently rinse with room temperature water.

4) Let your eggs air dry

Tidbit: The longer you leave the eggs in the water with the coloring agent the deeper the color will be.

Cold Bath Method:

1) Complete step 1 of the Hot Bath Method. Bring 2 cups water, your coloring agent, and 1 Tbsp. of white vinegar to a boil.

2) Bring it down to a simmer, let stand covered for 30-60 minutes. (Again, the longer you keep the water simmering, the deeper the color).

3) Strain the liquid and let cool.

4) Place the egg in the desired color and let stand in the liquid until you are happy with the color.

Tidbit: If using the cold bath method, cook eggs before placing them into the coloring liquid, make sure the eggs are cooled.

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Let’s meet the colors:

1. Orange – Yellow onion or Chili Powder

2. Yellow – Turmeric or Lemon

3. Blue – Purple Cabbage, Grape Fruit Juice, or Blueberries

4. Green – Spinach, Parsley

5. Pink/Purple – Beets

6. Deep Blue – Blueberry Juice

7. Brown – brewed coffee

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A reminder, the color may vary from ingredient to ingredient and depends on the soak times. For vibrant and deep colors follow the cold bath steps and let soak overnight. According to Better Homes & Gardens Test Kitchen, unless the eggs are cracked, they shouldn’t absorb the flavors of the natural dyes. Once all eggs are dyed enjoy the beautiful and vibrant colors, eggs can be kept in an air tight container in your refrigerator, until your beautiful art work can be displayed.

Happy Easter Everyone and Happy Dyeing!