Boiling eggs might seem like one of the simplest cooking tasks, yet achieving that perfectly cooked consistency—whether you prefer soft-boiled, medium, or hard-boiled—can sometimes be elusive. One common mistake many make is starting with cold water, which can affect cooking times and results. Here’s a straightforward method to boil eggs that ensures they turn out just the way you like them every time.

Understanding the Basics:

Boiled eggs are a versatile food that can be enjoyed on their own, added to salads, or used in various dishes. They are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthy choice for any meal.

Materials Needed:

Fresh eggs

Pot with a lid

Bowl with ice water (for cooling)

Timer

Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low (just enough to maintain a simmer) and use a spoon or ladle to gently lower the eggs into the water. This prevents the eggs from bouncing and cracking.

Cooking Time:

For soft-boiled eggs: Cook for about 4-6 minutes.

For medium-boiled eggs: Cook for about 6-9 minutes.

For hard-boiled eggs: Cook for about 10-12 minutes.

Adjust the time slightly depending on the size of the eggs and your altitude, which can affect cooking.

Cooling the Eggs:

Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, remove them with a slotted spoon and immediately place them into a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking process and makes peeling easier.

Peeling:

After the eggs have cooled for about 5 minutes in ice water, gently crack the shells and peel them under a little running water. The water helps to lift the shell away from the egg.