This method consistently yields hard-boiled eggs that are easy to peel, with smooth, tender whites and perfectly cooked yolks.
Ingredients:
- Eggs (as many as you desire)
- Water
- Ice water (for an ice bath)
Instructions:
- Place Eggs in a Pot: Gently place the eggs in a saucepan in a single layer.
- Cover with Cold Water: Add enough cold water to the saucepan to cover the eggs by about 1 inch.
- Bring to a Boil: Place the saucepan over high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil.
- Remove from Heat and Cover: Once the water is boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat, cover it with a lid, and let the eggs sit for the following times, depending on your desired yolk consistency:
- Soft yolks: 6-7 minutes
- Firm, creamy yolks: 8-9 minutes
- Hard yolks: 10-12 minutes
- Prepare an Ice Bath: While the eggs are sitting, prepare an ice bath by filling a bowl with ice and cold water.
- Transfer Eggs to Ice Bath: After the allotted time, carefully transfer the eggs from the hot water to the ice bath using a slotted spoon. This rapid cooling stops the cooking process and makes the eggs easier to peel. Let the eggs sit in the ice bath for at least 10-15 minutes. The longer the better.
- Peel the Eggs:
- Gently tap each egg on a hard surface to crack the shell all over.
- Begin peeling under running cold water, which helps to separate the shell from the egg white.
- The cold water combined with the ice bath will help the shell to slide off easily.
- Enjoy: Once peeled, your eggs are ready to eat, use in recipes, or store in the refrigerator.
Tips for Easy Peeling:
- Older Eggs: Older eggs tend to peel more easily than very fresh eggs.
- Ice Bath: Do not skip the ice bath, it is critical for ease of peeling.
Enjoy your perfect hard-boiled eggs!