why make this recipe
Making hard boiled and soft boiled eggs from scratch is a simple and rewarding task. Eggs are a great source of protein, making them a perfect addition to your meals or snacks. By mastering this easy technique, you can enjoy perfectly cooked eggs that suit your preference, whether you want them fully hard boiled or slightly soft in the center. Plus, they are versatile and can be used in salads, sandwiches, or just eaten on their own.
how to make Easy Hard Boiled and Soft Boiled Eggs
Ingredients:
- 4 large Fresh Eggs (Use large or extra-large eggs for best results.)
- 4 cups Cold Water (Enough to cover the eggs by at least an inch.)
- 1 pinch Salt (Optional, for flavor enhancement.)
- 2 cups Ice (For creating an ice bath after cooking.)
Directions:
- Begin by selecting fresh eggs; gently place them in a single layer at the bottom of a pot.
- Add cold water to the pot, ensuring that the water covers the eggs by at least one inch.
- Place the pot on the stove over medium-high heat and allow the water to come to a rolling boil.
- Once boiling, remove the pot from heat, cover it, and set a timer for your desired doneness.
- For soft boiled eggs, cook for 4-6 minutes.
- For hard boiled eggs, cook for 9-12 minutes.
- Prepare an ice bath by filling a bowl with ice and cold water.
- Transfer the eggs to the ice bath using a slotted spoon and let them sit for at least 5 minutes.
- Gently tap the eggs on a hard surface to crack the shell and peel from the wider end.
- Rinse the peeled eggs under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Your Easy Hard Boiled and Soft Boiled Eggs are ready to be enjoyed!
how to serve Easy Hard Boiled and Soft Boiled Eggs
You can serve your eggs in various ways. For hard boiled eggs, slice them in half and sprinkle a little salt and pepper. You can also chop them up for salads or add them to your favorite sandwich. Soft boiled eggs are perfect for dipping toast into or serving on a cozy ramen dish. They can also be enjoyed on top of avocado toast or in a breakfast bowl.
how to store Easy Hard Boiled and Soft Boiled Eggs
Store leftover hard boiled eggs in the refrigerator. Keep them in their shells for the best freshness, or peel them and keep them in an airtight container. They will stay good for up to a week. Soft boiled eggs are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have extras, keep them in the fridge and consume them within a couple of days.
tips to make Easy Hard Boiled and Soft Boiled Eggs
- For easier peeling, try using eggs that are a few days old.
- Experiment with cooking times to find the perfect texture that you enjoy.
- Always prepare an ice bath; it helps to stop the cooking process immediately, making for a better texture.
variation
You can add flavors to the cooking water, such as a splash of vinegar or even some herbs for additional taste. Another variation is to try different cooking methods, like using a steamer instead of boiling, which can yield great results.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen eggs?
A: It’s not recommended to use frozen eggs for boiling, as the texture may not be pleasant.
Q: How do I know when my eggs are done cooking?
A: Set a timer according to how you want your eggs (4-6 minutes for soft and 9-12 minutes for hard). A reliable timer is key for perfect boiling.
Q: What should I do if the eggs crack while boiling?
A: If an egg cracks, it might still be fine to eat. You can reduce the heat slightly, and it won’t affect the cooking significantly.
Easy Hard Boiled and Soft Boiled Eggs
Master the easy technique of making hard boiled and soft boiled eggs to enjoy them in a variety of dishes.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 large Fresh Eggs
- 4 cups Cold Water
- 1 pinch Salt (Optional)
- 2 cups Ice
Instructions
- Place fresh eggs in a single layer at the bottom of a pot.
- Add cold water to cover the eggs by at least one inch.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- Remove pot from heat, cover, and set a timer for desired doneness.
- Soft boiled: cook for 4-6 minutes; hard boiled: cook for 9-12 minutes.
- Prepare an ice bath with ice and cold water.
- Transfer eggs to the ice bath and let sit for at least 5 minutes.
- Gently tap and peel the eggs from the wider end.
- Rinse under cold water, pat dry, and serve.
Notes
For easier peeling, use eggs that are a few days old. Prepare an ice bath for better texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 egg
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 186mg