You're making boiled eggs wrong – 'crucial step' promises 'perfect yolk'
Boiled eggs are a simple breakfast, lunch or dinner option, but many people struggle to cook them perfectly. Michelin-starred chef Tom Shepherd has shared his top tips for making the "perfect" boiled egg
Boiled eggs are a staple in many households across the UK.
Whether it's a hard or soft boiled egg you're after, we know they can turn many meals from drab to fab. However, despite their mouth-watering allure, landing the perfectly boiled egg can seem like a chore.
But don't fret – achieving egg-cellence in the kitchen just got easier thanks to a top-notch chef who has let us in on his foolproof recipe for the "perfect" boiled egg.
Birmingham's culinary gem, Michelin-starred chef Tom Shepherd, has shared his top tips. With an Instagram following soaring above 40,000 people, and having rustled up dishes for none other than Prince William, not to mention bagging the main course victory on BBC's Great British Menu in 2023, Tom's tips are probably worth listening to.
Tom said: "Depending on how you like your boiled eggs cooked, I recommend the following times. Six minutes for a runny yolk, eight minutes for a soft yolk and 10 minutes for a hard yolk."
Then its time for a crucial step that many miss out on. The pro cook continued: "Once boiled, immediately place the eggs in ice-cold water. If you want the egg to be cool, leave it in the water.
"If you prefer the egg warm, only leave it in the ice water for no more than 30 seconds. This will help stop the residual heat from the shell from continuing to cook the egg.
"When you crack the top, add some seasoning. Personally, I enjoy my eggs cooked for seven minutes, as I like them in between soft and hard."
How to boil an egg perfectly
Start by filling a pot with cold water and bring it to a boil. Then, gently place your eggs in the boiling water and cook them according to your preference.
Some people like their eggs soft-boiled, while others prefer them hard-boiled. To determine the cooking time, follow Tom's guide.
Most chefs suggest that once the eggs are done, you should immediately transfer them into an ice bath to halt the cooking process. This ensures that your eggs remain just as you like them when you're ready to eat. For more of Tom's tips, visit his website.