FoodPerfect eggs every time: The foolproof hack for seamless peeling

Perfect eggs every time: The foolproof hack for seamless peeling

Cooking eggs may seem simple, but many people struggle with cracking shells and difficulty peeling them. However, there's an easy method to ensure the eggs cook perfectly without cracking, and are simple to peel after cooking. Try this trick and enjoy perfectly cooked eggs every time.

The perfect soft-boiled egg has a runny yolk and set whites.
The perfect soft-boiled egg has a runny yolk and set whites.
Images source: © Getty Images | YNG Pictures

20 October 2024 11:31

Cooking eggs hard-boiled, soft-boiled, or medium can seem straightforward, but they don't always turn out perfectly. Shells crack, and peeling the eggs can be quite a challenge. The key to success lies in following a few simple rules that make sure the eggs cook without surprises and make peeling them easier.

How to cook eggs to avoid cracking shells?

Cracking egg shells is a relatively common problem. The main reason is a sudden temperature change—when cold eggs are taken straight from the fridge and placed in boiling water, the shells can't withstand the sudden heat difference and crack. Additionally, during cooking, air bubbles can form under the shell, contributing to cracking.

  • eggs (any number),
  • water,
  • 1 tablespoon of salt,
  • 1 tablespoon of vinegar.

Salt and vinegar play a crucial role in preventing shell cracking. Salt strengthens the shells, while vinegar ensures that the eggs peel easily after cooking. This simple trick will ensure your eggs come out perfectly every time.

  1. Pour cold water into the pot, add salt and vinegar. Carefully place the eggs into the pot, set over medium heat, and bring to a boil.
  2. After reaching a boil, lower the heat and cook the eggs to your preference (4-5 minutes for soft-boiled, 6-7 minutes for medium, 9-10 minutes for hard-boiled). Immediately pour cold water with ice cubes over the eggs after cooking, and peel after cooling.

Why does this method work?

Vinegar and salt strengthen the egg shells, preventing them from cracking during cooking. Additionally, quickly cooling the eggs in cold water causes the egg whites to contract, separating them from the shell. This makes peeling much easier, and the eggs maintain their perfect form.

Additional tips:

  • Fresh eggs have stronger whites and cook better, but older eggs are easier to peel. If the eggs are very fresh, this vinegar and quick cooling trick can help solve the problem of difficult peeling,
  • If preparing eggs in advance, they can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days, but they taste best when consumed immediately after cooking.
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