Reasons to choose soft-boiled egg
Learning how to cook a soft-boiled egg is a basic skill that makes any meal better. You can serve them with salt and pepper or on top of a salad for extra richness. They are quick to prepare when you need a fast source of energy in the morning. Using fresh eggs will always give you the best flavour and texture.
How to prepare soft-boiled egg
Boil water: Fill a small saucepan with enough water to cover the eggs completely. Bring the water to a gentle boil over a medium heat. Adding a little salt to the water can help if an egg cracks during cooking.
Add eggs: Lower the heat so the water is just simmering. Use a slotted spoon to gently place each soft-boiled egg into the pan to avoid breaking the shell. Turn the heat back up slightly to keep a steady simmer.
Set timer: Start your timer immediately once all the eggs are in the water. For a very runny yolk, cook them for six minutes. If you prefer a slightly thicker yolk, cook them for seven minutes instead.
Cool down: Remove the eggs with a slotted spoon and place them into a bowl of cold water. This stops the cooking process and makes them easier to handle. Peel the shell carefully and serve while the inside is still warm.
Extra tips for soft-boiled egg
Use eggs that are at room temperature to prevent the shells from cracking in the hot water. If you take them straight from the fridge, add one extra minute to the cooking time. Always lower the eggs gently into the pan with a spoon rather than dropping them. A soft-boiled egg is much easier to peel if you crack the shell all over before starting.
Placing the cooked eggs in cold water for just one minute makes the shell come away cleanly. You can also use a small teaspoon to slide under the shell once you have made a small opening. This technique keeps the white smooth and intact. Serving your eggs in a traditional egg cup makes them easier to eat with toasted bread soldiers.
You can also try these recipes:
gourmet crab salad,
blue cheese dressing or
moussaka.
