If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying breakfast, soft boiled eggs are a classic choice that never disappoints. With their perfectly cooked whites and runny yolks, they add a touch of elegance to any meal. This easy recipe will guide you through achieving that ideal texture every time, making your morning routine both delicious and effortless. Whether you enjoy them on toast or as a side, these soft boiled eggs are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Steps
- Fill a medium pot with water and heat until it reaches a gentle simmer, just below boiling.
- Use a slotted spoon to gently place the eggs into the simmering water and allow them to cook for 7 minutes (or 6 minutes if you prefer the yolks runnier).
- While the eggs are cooking, prepare a bowl with cold water and a handful of ice cubes.
- Once the cooking time is up, transfer the eggs to the ice bath immediately to cool for at least 3 minutes.
- To peel the eggs, gently tap the bottom to crack the shell and use a small spoon to carefully slide between the egg and the shell to remove it.
- Once peeled, season the soft boiled eggs with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- Eggs (quantity based on preference)
- Water (enough to fill a medium pot)
- Ice (a handful for the ice bath)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 70 per egg | Total Fat: 5g per egg | Saturated Fat: 1.5g per egg | Cholesterol: 185mg per egg | Sodium: 65mg per egg | Total Carbohydrate: 0.6g per egg | Dietary Fiber: 0g per egg | Sugars: 0.6g per egg | Protein: 6g per egg | Vitamin D: 1mcg per egg | Calcium: 28mg per egg | Iron: 1mg per egg | Potassium: 69mg per egg
FAQ
- How do I achieve the perfect soft boiled egg texture?
- The consistency of the yolk is key to a perfect soft boiled egg. For a gooey, slightly runny yolk, cook the eggs for 7 minutes. If you prefer a more runny yolk, reduce the cooking time to 6 1/2 minutes.
- Why is it important to maintain a gentle boil?
- A gentle boil prevents the eggs from cracking. If the water boils too vigorously, the eggs may bounce around and hit the pot’s bottom, causing the shells to break.
- Is the ice bath necessary after cooking the eggs?
- Yes, the ice bath is crucial as it stops the cooking process, ensuring the yolks remain deliciously runny. It also makes peeling the eggs much easier.
- How can I serve soft boiled eggs?
- Soft boiled eggs are versatile and can be enjoyed on their own in an egg cup, seasoned with salt and pepper. They also make excellent toppings for dishes such as avocado toast, grain bowls, or salads.
- What tools are recommended for peeling soft boiled eggs?
- To peel a soft boiled egg, gently tap the bottom to crack the shell, then use a small spoon to slide between the shell and the egg, carefully loosening it. This method may require some practice but is effective for clean peeling.
Tips
- Adjust cooking time for your preferred yolk consistency: For a gooey, jammy yolk, cook for 7 minutes. If you like your yolk runnier, try 6 1/2 minutes instead.
- Maintain a gentle boil: Prevent egg cracking by ensuring the water is gently boiling, not vigorously. If the boil is too rapid, the shells may crack against the pot.
- Use an ice bath: Don’t skip the ice bath step. It halts the cooking process, preserving the desired yolk texture, and makes peeling the eggs easier.
- Practice your peeling technique: Gently tap the bottom of the egg to crack the shell, then use a small spoon to carefully slide between the egg and shell to remove it. This method requires practice but results in cleaner peeled eggs.
Equipment
- Slotted Spoon – Useful for lowering and lifting eggs from the boiling water.
- Egg Cup – For serving soft boiled eggs directly in the shell.
