How Long To Boil Eggs In Boiling Water
Boiling eggs is one of the easiest and quickest ways to cook an egg. However, getting the perfect boiled egg requires a bit of precision in boiling time. Overcooked eggs can result in a grey yolk and tough whites, while undercooked eggs can be runny and messy. Read on to find out how long to boil eggs in boiling water to achieve the perfect boiled egg.
How to Boil Eggs in Boiling Water
Before we get into the specifics of boiling time, let’s first talk about how to boil eggs in boiling water.
Step 1: Preparation
To boil eggs, you will need a pot, eggs, and water. Fill the pot with water, enough to cover the eggs by at least an inch. Bring the water to a rolling boil. While waiting for the water to boil, prepare the eggs by taking them out of the refrigerator, so they come to room temperature.
Step 2: Boiling the Eggs
Once the water has come to a rolling boil, use a slotted spoon to gently lower the eggs into the water. Lower the heat to a simmer and set the timer based on your desired doneness.
Step 3: Cooling the Eggs
When the timer goes off, immediately remove the eggs from the boiling water and place them into an ice water bath. This will stop the cooking process and make the eggs easier to peel.
How Long to Boil Eggs in Boiling Water
Now that we know how to boil eggs, the next question is, how long to boil eggs in boiling water?
The answer depends on the desired doneness of the egg. Here are the general guidelines for boiling eggs in boiling water:
Soft boiled egg: 4-6 minutes
Medium boiled egg: 7-9 minutes
Hard boiled egg: 10-12 minutes
It is essential to note that cooking time may vary depending on the size of the egg and the altitude you are at. A larger egg will need more time, while a smaller egg will need less time. Likewise, if you are above sea level, you may need to add a minute or two to your boiling time.
FAQs
Q: How do I know if an egg is boiled perfectly?
A: The best way to check for the doneness of your boiled egg is by using a timer. However, if you don’t have a timer, you can use the following guide:
– Soft boiled egg: the white should be set, and the yolk should be runny.
– Medium boiled egg: the white should be set, and the yolk should be slightly runny.
– Hard boiled egg: the white and the yolk should be set.
Q: How do I prevent the yolk from turning grey?
A: Overcooking your eggs can cause the yolk to turn grey. To prevent this, always use a timer and follow the recommended boiling times. After boiling, immediately cool the eggs in an ice-water bath, so they don’t continue to cook in the residual heat.
Q: Can I boil eggs straight from the fridge, or should I let them come to room temperature first?
A: It is best to let your eggs come to room temperature before boiling them. This helps to prevent cracking and ensure even cooking.
Q: Is it safe to eat undercooked eggs?
A: Undercooked eggs can carry harmful bacteria such as Salmonella. It is recommended to cook eggs until the whites and yolks are firm.
Conclusion
Boiling eggs in boiling water is a simple task, but getting the perfect boiled egg requires some precision. Use the recommended boiling times as a guide, and don’t forget to adjust for egg size and altitude differences. Remember to cool the eggs immediately after boiling to prevent overcooking and discoloration. With these tips, you will have perfectly boiled eggs every time!