What is a Soft Boiled Egg?
A soft boiled egg is cooked just enough so that the white is set but the yolk is still runny. This type of egg is often served with toast or soldiers (strips of toast) for dipping.
How Long to Cook Soft Boiled Eggs?
The cooking time for soft boiled eggs will vary depending on the size of the eggs and the desired level of doneness. Here are some general guidelines:
| Egg Size | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| Small | 6-7 minutes |
| Medium | 7-8 minutes |
| Large | 8-9 minutes |
Tips for Cooking Perfect Soft Boiled Eggs
- Use fresh eggs. Older eggs are more likely to crack during cooking.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the eggs. This will help to prevent the eggs from cracking.
- Add a teaspoon of salt to the water. This will help to flavor the eggs and make them easier to peel.
- Cook the eggs for the correct amount of time. Overcooked eggs will have a hard yolk.
- Immediately remove the eggs from the boiling water and place them in a bowl of cold water. This will stop the cooking process and make the eggs easier to peel.
How to Peel Soft Boiled Eggs
- Tap the egg on a hard surface to crack the shell.
- Peel the egg under running water. This will help to remove any loose shell fragments.
Serving Soft Boiled Eggs
Soft boiled eggs can be served with a variety of toppings, including:
- Salt and pepper
- Butter
- Chopped chives
- Smoked salmon
Health Benefits of Soft Boiled Eggs
Soft boiled eggs are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. They are also a low-calorie food. One large soft boiled egg contains:
- Calories: 78
- Protein: 6 grams
- Fat: 5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Vitamin A: 10% of the RDI
- Vitamin B12: 15% of the RDI
- Selenium: 22% of the RDI
FAQs About Soft Boiled Eggs
1. How can I tell if a soft boiled egg is done?
The best way to tell if a soft boiled egg is done is to use a timer. Overcooked eggs will have a hard yolk.
2. What is the best way to peel a soft boiled egg?
The best way to peel a soft boiled egg is to tap it on a hard surface to crack the shell and then peel it under running water.
3. How can I prevent soft boiled eggs from cracking?
There are a few things you can do to prevent soft boiled eggs from cracking:
- Use fresh eggs. Older eggs are more likely to crack during cooking.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the eggs. This will help to prevent the eggs from cracking.
- Add a teaspoon of salt to the water. This will help to flavor the eggs and make them easier to peel.
4. What are some creative ways to serve soft boiled eggs?
Here are a few creative ways to serve soft boiled eggs:
- Serve them on toast with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Top them with a dollop of caviar or smoked salmon.
- Add them to a green salad.
- Use them as a base for a deviled egg recipe.
Conclusion
Soft boiled eggs are a delicious and nutritious breakfast, lunch, or snack. They are easy to make and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
