Quail eggs are the “Ancient Chinese Secret” that provide the succulent flavor we yearn for from adolescence without the negative health effects associate with its cousin the chicken egg.  In fact, for thousands of years, Chinese medical practitioners have used quail eggs to heal such ailments as rhinitis, asthma, hay fever, spasmodic cough, as well as eczema and psoriasis.  Successful treatment has been seen even in sufferers of tuberculosis, diabetes, kidney, liver, or gallbladder stones.  Yes, these eggs also contain high HDL cholesterol levels “the good fat”, but, even though they are smaller in size, their nutritional value is three to four times greater than those of other fowl.

Quail eggs contain 140 percent of vitamin B1 (Thiamine) – which promotes a healthy nervous and cardiovascular system) compared to only 50 percent in chicken eggs.  Further, they provide five times as much iron and potassium – lessening the susceptibility to anemia by increasing the level of hemoglobin in the body while removing toxins and heavy metals and muscle weakness; are richer in phosphorus and calcium – promoting bone and teeth health; and contain twice as much vitamins A – healthy for the eyes, and B2 – aiding the body in the production of energy.  Finally, it has been found that regular consumption of quail eggs has helped fight digestive tract disorders, strengthen the immune system, promote memory health and increase brain activity.

So, there are only two questions left.  Where can quail eggs be found?  And, how are they best prepared?  First, if you live in West Los Angeles, they are sold at Nanay’s Seafood Market (4032 Eagle Rock Blvd, 90065), and at both the Pavilion Market and Surfa’s in Culver City.  If you live outside the area, I have found them on amazon.com and other fresh food websites.

How are they best prepared?  First, unlike with other eggs, salmonella is not a concern here because quails themselves are resistant to infections due to their increased content of lysozyme which kills harmful bacteria.  Therefore, they can be eaten raw if so desired.  If this is the route you’d like to take, eating three to five quail eggs each morning promotes a stronger immune system and improved metabolism than if eaten cooked.  Or, if that doesn’t sit well with your or your children, opt to cook them as you would any other egg.  Their nutritional benefit is still “eggceptional”.