The egg itself, like a seed, is a symbol of the potential of life. In ancient times, the egg was a symbol of the universe, creation, and, in some cultures, luck, wealth, and health.
What's equally as good with high tea, sparkling wine, or frosty beer at a tailgate? I have an egg of an idea - the deviled egg. It's one of those hors d'oeuvre platters that spans the occasion ladder from high brow to low brow, which always empties fast because it is so difficult to have just one.
The name deviled implies hot but need not be. It is simply hard-boiled eggs chilled and halved with the yolk whipped into a flavorful filling of a wide variety of flavors such as mayonnaise, sour cream, yogurt, Dijon mustard, etc. You can even spice it up with a touch of cayenne, hot sauce, or wasabi. Use a touch of fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or chives; it's a nice touch. Make special occasion up-end garnishes such as chopped prosciutto, crisp chopped pancetta, or with a sliver of smoked salmon, sour cream, and caviar.
