each raw egg yolk
Egg yolks are rich in choline, lutein, and zeaxanthin (important for eye health), and provide complete protein and essential amino acids. They are also an excellent source of selenium, phosphorus, and B vitamins, though they are relatively high in calories and cholesterol.
About
An egg yolk is the nutrient-dense, lipid-rich sphere at the center of an avian egg, typically from domesticated hens (Gallus gallus domesticus). The yolk comprises approximately 30-35% of an egg's total weight and is enclosed within the vitelline membrane. Raw egg yolks range in color from pale yellow to deep golden-orange depending on the hen's diet, with a viscous consistency that becomes firmer when cooked. The yolk contains the embryo's nutrient supply and is chemically complex, consisting of water, lipids, proteins, and emulsifying agents that make it essential in countless culinary applications.
The yolk's composition—particularly its lecithin content—gives it powerful emulsifying properties, allowing it to bind fats and liquids that would otherwise separate. This characteristic, combined with its subtle, rich flavor, makes raw egg yolks indispensable in both sweet and savory preparations where their functional properties are as important as their nutritional contribution.
Culinary Uses
Raw egg yolks serve as the foundation for emulsified sauces such as mayonnaise, béarnaise, and hollandaise, where their lecithin content binds oil and other liquids into stable emulsions. In baking, egg yolks enrich doughs and batters, contributing fat, moisture, and color while providing structure through their proteins. They are essential in custards, ice cream bases, and creamy desserts, and are central to preparations like zabaglione and sabayon. Raw yolks also feature in traditional dishes such as carbonara (where their heat-sensitivity is intentional) and cured preparations like salt-cured yolks. When using raw yolks, particularly in dishes like Caesar dressing or homemade mayonnaise, sourcing from reliable suppliers and understanding food safety considerations is important.