Pin it
This zingy chili garlic spin on classic deviled eggs turns a simple starter into something truly mouthwatering. The smooth, zesty filling gets an awesome kick from chili garlic sauce while keeping that familiar deviled egg goodness we all crave. Great for everything from backyard hangouts to fancy holiday parties.
I whipped these up for a backyard cookout when I was bored with my regular deviled eggs. My friends who love spicy food almost got into a tussle over the final one, and now they beg me to bring them to every party.
Ingredients
- 12 large eggs: Pick fresh eggs for the tastiest results and vibrant yellow centers.
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise: Go with the real deal full-fat stuff for extra creaminess. Brands like Duke's or Hellmann's do the trick.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce: This amazing stuff adds both spice and flavor punch. You'll find it with other Asian foods at the store.
- Smoked paprika: Gives a gorgeous color and light smoky taste to your finished eggs.
- Crispy fried onions: These add a surprising crunch and extra flavor dimension.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Get Those Eggs Just Right:
- Drop your eggs into a big pot and add cold water until they're fully covered. Crank the heat to high until you get a good boil going. Then turn it down to a simmer and time it for exactly 10 minutes. Right after, move them to ice water and let them chill for at least 5 minutes. This stops that weird gray ring and makes shells come off way easier.
- Shell and Slice Carefully:
- Tap each cold egg against your counter and roll it under your hand to crack the shell all around. Take the shells off under running water to help wash away any bits. Cut each egg down the middle with a sharp knife. Scoop the yellows out into a bowl and set the whites on your serving plate. For super smooth filling, push the yolks through a strainer.
- Whip Up Tasty Filling:
- Smash the egg yolks with a fork until they're completely smooth. Mix in the mayo and start with just 1 tablespoon of chili garlic sauce. Stir until it's totally creamy with no lumps. Give it a taste and slowly add more chili garlic sauce until you get the heat just how you want it. Your mix should be firm enough to hold shape but smooth enough to squeeze out.
- Fill Those Eggs:
- Put your yolk mixture into a piping bag with a star tip if you want them to look fancy. No piping bag? Just cut the corner off a sandwich bag instead. Squeeze generous swirls into each egg white, making a little mound that sits up above the edge. You'll have plenty of filling to load up all 24 halves nicely.
- Top Them Off:
- Just before you serve them, sprinkle the filled eggs lightly with smoked paprika using a small strainer so it goes on evenly. Top each with a few crispy fried onions. Add those onions right at the last minute so they stay crunchy. Arrange them on a plate with some fresh herbs for a pretty look.
Pin it
The first time I served these, my husband who swears he can't stand deviled eggs gobbled down four in one go. The chili garlic sauce totally changes them from boring to exciting. I now always keep chili garlic sauce in my fridge specifically for making this appetizer.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can fix these eggs up to a day before by stuffing the whites and keeping them covered in the fridge. Save the toppings for right before serving so they stay fresh and look good. If you're taking these to a gathering, carry the filling and egg whites in separate cold containers, then put them together when you get there for the best presentation.
Variations to Try
Want more tang? Throw in a teaspoon of rice vinegar to the mix. Crazy about garlic? Add a freshly chopped clove for extra zing. Need something milder but still tasty? Use half sweet chili sauce instead of all spicy stuff. Love veggies? Mix in some finely chopped green onions or chives for color and flavor. Bacon fans might prefer crumbled bacon on top instead of the crispy onions.
Serving Suggestions
These spicy eggs work great as starters for Asian meals or good old barbecues. Try placing them on some mixed greens to make them look fancy. They go really well with cold beer or crisp white wine. For a complete snack spread, serve them alongside something sweet like honey meatballs to balance out the heat. Maybe put out small spoons so people can eat them without getting messy fingers.
Pin it
You can switch up these deviled eggs in so many ways. Whether you're into bold flavors or something more tame, this dish will have your guests coming back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I make boiled eggs easier to peel?
Put your boiled eggs into icy water as soon as they’re done. The cold knocks the shell loose, making peeling effortless.
- → How do I tweak the spice level in these?
Play with the chili garlic sauce amount. Adding more raises the heat, and mixing in extra mayo keeps it milder and creamier.
- → What are substitutes for chili garlic sauce?
Sriracha, your favorite hot sauce, or a mix of cayenne and paprika work great for a similar punch of spice.
- → Can I make these in advance?
Sure, boil and shell the eggs a day or two early and store them in the fridge. Wait to stuff and garnish until right before serving for top-notch taste.
- → What are other toppings for these eggs?
Switch out fried onions for something new, like bacon bits, shredded cheese, or some fresh chives for a fun twist.