Eggs are considered to be one of the most perfect sources of protein, having as they do a wealth of other nutrients and fatty acids that they bring in as well. While most people like eggs poached or sunny-side up, for instance, hard boiled eggs are great, too: they travel well, make excellent snacks or additions to lunch boxes and are a very healthy way to prepare this food. Below are some tips to achieving perfect hard-boiled eggs that you and your family will love!
Older Eggs are Better
While this may sound counter-intuitive, older eggs actually do better for hard-boiling than do fresh, as they are less likely to stick to the peel. This means that hard-boiling has the advantage of being able to use up eggs that are close to their expiration date.
Eggs can be Warm or Cold
Many people wonder if it is better to keep the eggs refrigerated until it comes time to boil them or leave them out for a while so they will be at room temperature. The truth is, however, that they will boil equally well either way.
Bring Water to a Boil First
Some people put the eggs in the cold water, then bring the water to a boil. However, it is better to wait until the water is boiling before putting in the eggs as it will make them easier to peel when they are done.
Turn Down Heat Quickly
Once the eggs are in the boiling water, keep it at a boil for only about 30 seconds before turning the heat down so that you can simmer them. It is good to simmer the eggs for about 11 minutes if you are wanting to get a hard-boiled texture.
Steam Cooking
An alternative to the boil method is the steaming method. Put about half an inch of water in the pot, bring it to a boil, then place your eggs in a steamer insert. The eggs cook gently and you don’t have to adjust the flame as you do with the boiling method.
Avoid Baking or Pressure Cooking Eggs
While both these methods may sound appealing, you might not like the results. Pressure cooked eggs usually result in the whites becoming rubbery and tough. With baking, on the other hand, the eggs can be very difficult to peel.
Dunk in Ice
Once you have removed the eggs, dunk them in a bowl of iced water. This will help them cool faster and also give you perfect, rounded egg bottoms.
Let the Chill
You may want to leap at the eggs and devour them as soon as they come out of the pan, but be patient and let them chill. The colder the egg is, the easier it will be to peel.
Use Running Water
If you peel the eggs under running water, you will find that they peel easily and leave you with a perfectly smooth egg surface and not one which is going to stick to its peel and come off in pieces!
So there you have it. Follow these nine tips and you will find yourself with perfect boiled eggs just waiting to be peeled and eaten!
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