National Deviled Egg Day is celebrated every year on November 2nd, honoring the classic potluck and party appetizer: hard-boiled eggs filled with a creamy, tangy yolk mixture.
History of Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs have surprisingly ancient roots, with early versions traced back to ancient Rome, where wealthy Romans served boiled eggs seasoned with spicy sauces as a first course at meals. The term “deviled” itself emerged much later, in the 18th century, used to describe foods that were highly seasoned or spiced, often with ingredients like mustard or cayenne pepper that gave dishes a “devilishly” hot kick.
The modern deviled egg gained real popularity in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, evolving into the classic mayonnaise and mustard-based filling recognized today. The dish goes by different names around the world, including “eggs mimosa” in France, where the finely grated yolk resembles the bright yellow mimosa flower. The exact origin of National Deviled Egg Day as an observance isn’t documented, but the dish itself has firmly cemented its place as a beloved staple at American potlucks, holidays, and gatherings.
10 Deviled Egg Filling Variations to Try
- Classic: Mayonnaise, mustard, and a sprinkle of paprika.
- Bacon and Chive: Crumbled bacon and fresh chives mixed into the yolk filling.
- Spicy Sriracha: A dash of sriracha or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Avocado: Mashed avocado in place of some or all of the mayonnaise for a creamy, updated twist.
- Pickle Relish: Sweet or dill relish for a tangy, textured bite.
- Everything Bagel: Topped with everything bagel seasoning for a savory crunch.
- Smoked Salmon: Finely chopped smoked salmon and a touch of dill.
- Buffalo Style: Buffalo sauce and a light drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Curry: A pinch of curry powder for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Bacon Ranch: Ranch seasoning mixed into the filling, topped with crispy bacon bits.
Fun Facts About Deviled Eggs
- Deviled eggs trace back to ancient Rome, where boiled eggs seasoned with spicy sauces were served as a first course.
- The term “deviled” originated in the 18th century to describe highly seasoned, spicy dishes.
- In France, deviled eggs are called “oeufs mimosa,” named for the grated yolk’s resemblance to the mimosa flower.
- Special carrying trays exist specifically designed to transport deviled eggs safely to parties and potlucks.
- At larger gatherings, it’s common to prepare at least two deviled egg halves per guest, since they tend to disappear quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Deviled Egg Day?
National Deviled Egg Day is celebrated annually on November 2nd.
Where does the term “deviled” come from?
The term originated in the 18th century, used to describe foods that were highly seasoned or spiced, often with mustard or cayenne pepper.
What’s a good make-ahead tip for deviled eggs?
Deviled eggs can be assembled a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator, though it’s best to add crunchy toppings like bacon bits just before serving to keep them fresh.