How to Boil Eggs Perfectly
This method for boiling eggs covers precise timing and temperature control to achieve desired levels of doneness from soft to hard boiled. Eggs are gently lowered into near-boiling water and cooked with the heat adjusted to prevent vigorous boiling. An ice-water bath stops cooking instantly, ensuring easy peeling and the intended texture.
Ingredients
- 1 to 6 egg large
Instructions
- Bring a medium-sized pot of water to a boil. Ensure there's enough water in the pot to cover the eggs by about an inch. While you're waiting for the water to boil, remove the eggs from the fridge (set them on the counter).
- Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low (so that there's no bubbles) and use skimmer to gently and slowly add the eggs to the water. Then, turn the heat back up to a boil.
- Set a timer and cook the eggs for 6 to 7 minutes for soft-boiled eggs and 12 to 14 minutes for hard-boiled eggs. See the cooking time notes above. While the eggs are cooking, prepare an ice-water bath.
- Once the eggs have cooked to your preferred time, use the skimmer to remove the eggs and immediately submerge them in the ice-water bath to stop their cooking.
- Peel the eggs, starting with the bottom end first as it's easier to get under the membrane.
Notes
- Use a skimmer to gently add and remove eggs, preventing cracks.
- Do not boil more than six eggs at once to avoid altering cook times.
- Peel them starting from the broader end where air pocket eases shell removal.
- Pair with simple egg cups for serving soft-boiled eggs.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 6 eggs
Amount Per Serving
Calories 775
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 77.5kcal | 4% |
| Carbohydrates | 0.6g | 0% |
| Protein | 6.3g | 13% |
| Fat | 5.3g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 1.6g | 8% |
| Cholesterol | 186.5mg | 62% |
| Sodium | 62mg | 3% |
| Sugar | 0.6g | 1% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.