About Vintage Deviled Egg Plates

History

• The first deviled egg plates were made in the 1930s; however, this piece of kitchen ware became popular in the 1940s and 1950s. Stuffed boiled eggs date to the 17th century; however, they were not called deviled eggs until the 18th century. Egg plates are a somewhat later addition to the traditions associated with deviled eggs.

Function

• Deviled egg plates hold egg halves. The plate may hold as few as a dozen deviled eggs or as many as 20 to 30 eggs for a large deviled egg platter. Vintage deviled egg plates can be used to hold classic deviled eggs made with mayonnaise, mustard and pickle relish or juice or other stuffed eggs.

Types

• The first egg plates were glass, often etched with popular Depression glass patterns. Later egg plates were made of stoneware or porcelain, in both formal and whimsical designs. During the 1950s and 1960s, many china patterns offered a coordinating deviled egg plate. Vintage deviled egg plates for travel included spaces for the eggs and a lid.

Use

• Vintage egg plates remain a useful item in the kitchen today. Deviled eggs are a classic food throughout the American South at family reunions, church potlucks and summer picnics. Most vintage egg plates remain in good condition and can be used and enjoyed on your table today. Arrange eggs around the outside of the deviled egg plate and use the center for pickles or other accompaniments.

Collecting

• Collecting vintage deviled egg plates remains quite accessible. You can find vintage egg plates at flea markets, thrift stores, garage sales and possibly in your relatives' cupboards. Display your egg plates in a china cabinet or on a standard plate rack.