Soft-boiled eggs are a delightful addition to breakfast, salads, or even as a topping for ramen. With their creamy, runny yolks and tender whites, they can elevate any dish. While they may seem tricky to master, making the perfect soft-boiled eggs is easier than you might think. Follow this simple guide for consistently delicious results!
Step 1: Boil the Water
Fill a medium saucepan with enough water to cover the eggs by at least an inch. Bring the water to a gentle boil over medium heat.
Step 2: Prepare an Ice Bath
While the water is heating, fill a bowl with cold water and ice. This will stop the cooking process once the eggs are done, ensuring they stay soft and creamy.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Carefully lower the eggs into the simmering water using a slotted spoon. This helps prevent cracking and ensures even cooking.
Step 4: Set the Timer
For perfect soft-boiled eggs, set your timer for 6 to 7 minutes depending on the size of the eggs and how runny you like the yolks. For large eggs, 6 minutes will yield a very runny yolk, while 7 minutes will give you a slightly firmer yolk.
Step 5: Prepare for Cooling
As the eggs cook, keep an eye on the timer. When the time is up, immediately transfer the eggs from the boiling water to the ice bath using the slotted spoon. This will stop the cooking process and make peeling easier.
Step 6: Cool the Eggs
Let the eggs sit in the ice bath for about 5 minutes. This will help firm up the whites while keeping the yolks beautifully soft.
Step 7: Peel and Serve
Gently tap the eggs on a hard surface to crack the shell, then peel under running water to help remove any stubborn bits. Soft-boiled eggs can be served in their shells, or sliced in half for a beautiful presentation. Sprinkle with a little salt or your favorite seasoning for added flavor.
With just a few simple steps, you can master the art of making perfect soft-boiled eggs. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these delicious eggs are sure to impress. So grab some fresh eggs and get cooking—you'll be enjoying perfectly soft-boiled eggs in no time!