• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Recipes by Nora
  • Recipe Index
  • About
  • Contact
  • Subscribe
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipe Index
  • About
  • Contact
  • Subscribe
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipe Index
    • About
    • Contact
    • Subscribe
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • ×

    Home » Ingredient Guides

    Quail Eggs (Itlog ng Pugo)

    Published: Mar 17, 2023 by Nora Rey · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    0 shares
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Email
    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    Quail eggs are the eggs laid by quail, a small game bird from the same family as pheasants and partridges. Known as "itlog na pugo" in Filipino, these eggs are tiny but packed with nutrients. Their shells can be speckled or plain, with colors ranging from creamy white to light brown or blue-gray.

    Quail eggs in a carton.
    Jump to:
    • How do quail eggs differ from chicken eggs?
    • Are quail eggs healthy?
    • How to buy and store
    • How to prepare
    • Quail eggs in Filipino cooking
    • Other ingredient guides you may like
    • 📖 Recipe

    How do quail eggs differ from chicken eggs?

    A chicken egg and a quail egg.

    Quail eggs differ from chicken eggs in several ways:

    • Size: Quail eggs are much smaller, about one-third the size of a standard chicken egg.
    • Flavor: Quail eggs have a slightly richer taste due to their higher yolk-to-white ratio, though their taste is not significantly different from chicken eggs.
    • Shell Color: Quail eggs come in a range of colors, including white, cream, and brown. The color of the shell does not affect the nutritional value or flavor.
    • Shell Texture: Quail eggshells are thicker and harder to crack and peel.
    • Cooking Time: Due to their small size, quail eggs cook much faster than chicken eggs. Depending on their size and the texture you want to achieve, you only need to boil them for 2 to 4 minutes.
    • Nutrition: Quail eggs have large yolks relative to their size, containing more nutrients per unit of weight.
    • Availability: Since quail eggs are smaller and are not produced as extensively as chicken eggs, they are more expensive and harder to find.

    Despite their differences, qual and chicken eggs share the same flavor profile and are cooked similarly.

    Are quail eggs healthy?

    Despite their small size, quail eggs are nutrient-dense. They are low in calories but rich in Vitamin B12, iron, selenium, riboflavin, and choline.

    These vitamins and minerals are essential for proper nervous system functioning, red blood cell production, thyroid hormone metabolism, energy conversion, and neurotransmitter synthesis. They also contain iron necessary for immune function and energy metabolism.

    The high levels of antioxidants present in them can potentially reverse cellular damage and alleviate allergy symptoms. Quail eggs are higher in fat and protein by weight than chicken eggs.

    Although generally safe, taking precautions when consuming quail eggs is important. Since they are often unpasteurized, harmful bacteria may be present on the shell. Pregnant women and individuals with compromised immune systems should either avoid quail eggs or cook them thoroughly with no runny or gelatinous yolk.

    If you have a chicken egg allergy, it's wise to be cautious when testing your tolerance for quail eggs. Regardless of a chicken egg allergy, it's still possible to be allergic to quail eggs. As always, it's best to discuss any concerns with a medical professional.

    How to buy and store

    Quail eggs may be available at specialty food stores, health food stores, farmer's markets, and some supermarkets. You can also purchase them online from various retailers.

    Look for clean and smooth shells free of cracks or damage. They should feel heavy for their size. Though the color of the shells can vary, it doesn't affect the quality or taste of the eggs.

    Once purchased, store them in the refrigerator and consume them within 2 to 3 weeks for the best quality.

    How to prepare

    Cracking open quail eggs is slightly different from opening chicken eggs. You can tap the shell against a hard surface or thin edge to create a small crack, then use your fingers to pull apart the shell gently. However, their shells and membranes are thicker and may be harder to pierce through.

    A more effective approach is using a small knife. Hold the egg firmly with one hand, pointed side up. Create a transverse line by making a small cut across the top. Gently twist the knife to enlarge the cut and loosen the shell.

    Cracking open a quail egg using a small knife.

    Specialized scissors are designed to cut through the shell without damaging the egg yolk or white. Simply hold the egg in one hand and position the blade of the scissors over the top of the egg. Gently squeeze the handles to pierce through the shell, then use the scissors to cut a small circle around the top of the egg.

    Cracking open a quail egg using a specialized pair of scissors.

    Quail eggs can be prepared similarly to chicken eggs, with boiling being a popular method. You can serve them as a snack or add them to salads, soups, or other dishes.

    Boiled quail eggs cut in half on a plate.

    Another delicious way to enjoy quail eggs is to fry them. It is a quick and simple and quick method, much like frying a chicken egg.

    Fried quail egg on a spoon.

    Quail eggs in Filipino cooking

    Quail eggs are a common ingredient in many traditional Filipino dishes. Here are some ways:

    • Chop Suey: A stir-fry of mixed vegetables and meat or seafood. It has a slightly thickened sauce made with soy sauce and oyster sauce. Some versions include boiled quail eggs.
    • Corn Soup: A creamy, warm soup made with corn, chicken broth, and beaten eggs. Boiled quail eggs are often added for an extra boost of protein.
    • Picadillo: A Filipino version with ground pork or beef simmered with tomatoes or tomato sauce. The dish includes diced potatoes, carrots, peas, and raisins. It is seasoned with soy or fish sauce, then garnished with boiled quail eggs.
    • Pancit Canton (Filipino Stir-Fried Noodles): A Filipino version of stir-fried noodles, proteins, and vegetables with a savory, citrusy flavor. Boiled quail eggs make a delicious addition.
    • Kwek-Kwek (Fried Quail Eggs): Hard-boiled quail eggs coated in an orange batter made with starch and annatto. They are deep-fried until crispy and dipped in spiced vinegar.
    Kwek-Kwek (Fried Quail Egg) on a skewer dipped in spiced vinegar.
    Kwek-Kwek (Fried Quail Eggs)

    Other ingredient guides you may like

    • Jicama (Singkamas)
      Jicama (Singkamas)
    • yardlong beans
      Yardlong beans (Sitaw)
    • Cassava (Kamoteng Kahoy)
      Cassava (Kamoteng Kahoy)
    • kabocha squash
      Kabocha Squash

    Did you make this recipe? I would love to know! Your feedback helps me make better recipes.  Please rate, review, or comment below. Questions about this recipe are welcome, too!

    Let's connect on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, Twitter, and Youtube. Be sure to tag me when you try any of my recipes @recipesbynora!

    📖 Recipe

    Quail Eggs (Itlog ng Pugo)

    Quail Eggs (Itlog ng Pugo)

    A guide on how to crack open, buy, and store quail eggs (itlog na pugo).
    No ratings yet
    Print Pin Rate
    Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
    Cuisine: Asian, Filipino
    Diet: Gluten Free
    Prep Time: 5 minutes
    Total Time: 5 minutes
    Calories: 14kcal
    Author: Nora Rey

    Equipment

    • Small knife or quail egg scissors (optional)

    Ingredients

    • Quail eggs

    Instructions

    How to crack open quail eggs:

    • You can tap the shell against a hard surface or thin edge to create a small crack, then use your fingers to pull apart the shell gently. However, their shells and membranes are thicker and may be harder to pierce through.
    • A more effective approach is using a small knife. Hold the egg firmly with one hand, pointed side up. Create a transverse line by making a small cut across the top. Gently twist the knife to enlarge the cut and loosen the shell.
    • Specialized scissors are designed to cut through the shell without damaging the egg yolk or white. Simply hold the egg in one hand and position the blade of the scissors over the top of the egg. Gently squeeze the handles to pierce through the shell, then use the scissors to cut a small circle around the top of the egg.

    Notes

    How to Buy:
    Quail eggs may be available at specialty food stores, health food stores, farmer's markets, and some supermarkets. You can also purchase them online from various retailers.
    Look for clean and smooth shells free of cracks or damage. They should feel heavy for their size. Though the color of the shells can vary, it doesn't affect the quality or taste of the eggs.
    How to Store:
    Store them in the refrigerator and consume them within 2 to 3 weeks for the best quality.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1pieceCalories: 14kcalCarbohydrates: 0.04gProtein: 1gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 76mgSodium: 13mgPotassium: 12mgSugar: 0.04gVitamin A: 49IUCalcium: 6mgIron: 0.3mg
    Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!Mention @recipesbynora or tag #RecipesByNora!

    More Ingredient Guides

    • Eggplant (talong)
      Eggplant (Talong)
    • Okra
      Okra
    • bitter melon (ampalaya)
      Bitter Melon (Ampalaya)
    • fresh squid
      Squid (Pusit)
    0 shares
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Email

    Reader Interactions

    Thanks for coming! Let me know what you think: Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    Nora smiling at you

    Hi, I'm Nora! Whether you're new to Filipino food or have loved it for so long, I sure am happy you're here!  I hope you'll find useful recipes that you can enjoy and share with family and friends.

    More about me →

    Popular Recipes

    • grilled pork belly on a plate
      Inihaw na Liempo (Grilled Pork Belly)
    • Beef Stir Fry with Onions and Peppers in a wok
      Beef Stir Fry with Onions & Peppers
    • mackerel in olive oil on a serving plate
      Mackerel in Olive Oil
    • Beef Caldereta served on a plate
      Beef Caldereta
    • buko pandan salad served in a cup
      Buko Pandan Salad
    • Kamayan Feast
      Kamayan Feast: Bringing Family and Friends Together

    Seasonal Desserts

    • red velvet cupcakes
      Red Velvet Cupcakes
    • sliced loaf of banana bread
      Classic Banana Bread
    • Salted caramel pretzel brownies on a parchment paper.
      Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies From Brownie Mix
    • Brookie bars on a parchment paper
      Brookie Bars from Brownie Mix
    • S'mores brownies on a parchment paper
      S'mores Brownies From Brownie Mix
    • birthday brownies on a parchment paper
      Birthday Brownies From Brownie Mix

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Accessibility Statement
    • Cookie Policy
    • Disclaimer
    • Image Use & Copyright
    • Privacy Policy

    Contact

    • Contact

    Copyright © 2022 RECIPES BY NORA

    We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
    Do not sell my personal information.
    Cookie SettingsAccept
    Manage consent

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
    CookieDurationDescription
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
    viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
    Functional
    Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
    Performance
    Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
    Analytics
    Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
    Advertisement
    Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
    Others
    Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
    SAVE & ACCEPT
    0 shares