NFor a very North Fork type of Easter, opt for natural dyes you can make at home over the chemical-based pastels we so often associate with this holiday. These environmentally-inspired shades can be made with leftover kitchen ingredients and are a fun activity to do with kids. Use beets, turmeric, cabbage, fruit juices, coffee, and even onion skins! Here’s some tips from AllRecipes.com to make your natural Easter eggs:
- Bring 2 cups water to a rolling boil.
- Add coloring agent.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or longer for the deepest color.
- Strain liquid into a large mason jar, and allow to cool to room temperature, 2-3 hours.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons white vinegar and add 3 hard-boiled eggs.
- Seal the jar, and refrigerate overnight or until the egg is the desired color.
- Rub dried eggs with a dab of vegetable oil to give them a shinier finish (optional).
Learn how much color to add for each shade here.