Hard boiled eggs are a simple yet delicious food. They can be enjoyed on their own, added to salads, or made into tasty snacks. Perfectly cooked hard boiled eggs have a firm white and a creamy yolk, making them a great choice for any meal.
Why Make This Recipe
Making hard boiled eggs is easy and requires very few ingredients. They are nutritious, affordable, and versatile. Whether you want a quick breakfast, a healthy snack, or a topping for a salad, hard boiled eggs fit the bill. Plus, they are easy to prepare and can be stored for later use.
How to Make Hard Boiled Eggs
Ingredients:
- 4 to 6 large eggs (cold from the fridge)
Directions:
- Place a large pot on the stove and fill it with cold water. Ensure the water is enough to cover the eggs by at least 1 inch (2.5 cm).
- Turn on the heat to high and bring the water to a rolling boil. Do not cover the pot with a lid.
- Once it starts boiling, lower the heat to low/medium heat so that the water is no longer bubbling. Use a large spoon or a skimmer to gently lower the eggs into the pot, being careful to prevent them from cracking.
- Increase the heat back up to medium/high so the water starts boiling gently. Cook 6 minutes for runny yolks, 8 minutes for soft boiled eggs, 10 minutes for hard boiled eggs, and 12 minutes for fully firm yolks.
- While the eggs are boiling, prepare the ice bath. Fill half of a bowl with cold water and half with ice cubes. If you don’t have ice cubes, fill a bowl with cold water only.
- Once the eggs are ready, use kitchen tongs, a skimmer, or a spoon to remove them from the pot. Place them immediately into the ice bath and let cool for at least 10 minutes.
- Gently tap the cooled eggs on a hard surface to crack the shell. Start peeling from the wider end, where the air pocket is. The shell should come off easily. Run the eggs under cool water to remove any remaining shell, then serve or store for later.
How to Serve Hard Boiled Eggs
Hard boiled eggs can be served in many ways. You can slice them and add them to salads, mash them into a spread, or enjoy them as a snack with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. They also make a great addition to breakfast or brunch platters.
How to Store Hard Boiled Eggs
You can store hard boiled eggs in the refrigerator. Keep them in their shells for best results. They will stay fresh for up to one week. If you peel them, store the eggs in an airtight container with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.
Tips to Make Hard Boiled Eggs
- Use eggs that are cold from the fridge for easier handling and peeling.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot; make sure there’s enough space for each egg to cook evenly.
- Adjust your cooking time based on the desired yolk texture.
- If you have issues peeling, try using eggs that are a few days old rather than fresh eggs.
Variation
You can add flavors to your hard boiled eggs by seasoning them with herbs, spices, or sauces. Trying a dash of paprika, a sprinkle of garlic powder, or even dipping them in soy sauce can elevate the taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use eggs that are not cold?
A: Cold eggs are easier to handle and peel. If you use room temperature eggs, you may need to adjust the cooking time.
Q: How can I tell if my eggs are hard boiled?
A: You can spin the egg on a flat surface. If it spins smoothly, it is hard boiled. If it wobbles, it is not fully cooked.
Q: What should I do if I accidentally crack an egg while boiling?
A: If an egg cracks, it is usually still fine to cook. The egg white may leak out, but it will still be safe to eat. Adjust your cooking time slightly to account for the exposure.
Now you have everything you need to make perfect hard boiled eggs! Enjoy this simple recipe and get creative with how you serve them.
