How Long Does It Take To Boil An Egg? (Perfect Every Time)
Boiling eggs may seem simple, but getting the perfect texture, whether soft, medium, or hard-boiled, depends on how long you boil the egg. Cooking time can make the difference between a creamy yolk and a rubbery one. Let’s break down exactly how long it takes to boil an egg and how to do it right every single time.
Detailed Instructions for Boiling Eggs
Put the eggs in a saucepan in a single layer.
Add cold water: Pour roughly an inch of water over the eggs.
Boil: Over medium-high heat, bring the water to a rolling boil.
Set a timer: Once it’s boiling, begin timing to get the desired doneness.
Cool right away: After boiling, let the eggs cool for a few minutes in cold water or an ice bath. This prevents cooking and facilitates peeling.
Easy Ways to Peel Boiled Eggs
For easier peeling, use somewhat older eggs (5–7 days old).
Once it has cooled, lightly tap the counter to break the shell.
To neatly remove the shell, roll and p
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overcooking: Causes greenish yolks and a sulfur smell.
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Skipping the ice bath: Makes peeling difficult.
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Boiling too fast: Leads to cracked eggs.
Pro Tip: Boiling Eggs at Different Altitudes
If you live at a high altitude, water boils at a lower temperature, so you may need to add 1–2 extra minutes to your cooking time for perfectly cooked eggs.