How to Boil an Egg Perfectly

Boiled eggs in bowl

Boiling eggs to the perfect consistency is easy once you know the timing and technique. Whether you prefer soft, medium, or hard-boiled eggs, this guide will help you get it just right every time.

How to Boil an Egg Perfectly: Step-by-Step

Prepare the Eggs and Water

  • Place eggs in a single layer in a saucepan or pot.

  • Add enough cold water to cover the eggs by about an inch.

Boil the Eggs

  1. Heat the water over medium-high heat until it reaches a rolling boil.

  2. Turn off the heat and cover the pot with a lid.

  3. Set a timer depending on desired doneness:

    • Soft-boiled: 4 to 6 minutes

    • Medium-boiled: 7 to 9 minutes

    • Hard-boiled: 10 to 12 minutes

Cool the Eggs

  1. Once the timer goes off, transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water or run them under cold water.

  2. Let them cool for at least 5 minutes to stop the cooking process and make peeling easier.

Tips for Perfect Boiled Eggs

Helpful Tips

  • Use eggs that are a few days old for easier peeling.

  • Gently tap and roll eggs on a flat surface to crack shells before peeling.

  • Store boiled eggs in the fridge for up to one week.

  • Adjust boiling time slightly for altitude or egg size.

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