The Perfect Hard-Boiled Eggs – No More Guessing!

Unlock the secrets to cooking perfect hard-boiled eggs with this comprehensive guide. Learn essential techniques, including the best practices for selecting quality eggs, mastering cooking times, and creating an ice bath for optimal results. Discover how to peel effortlessly and explore delicious ways to enjoy your hard-boiled eggs, from salads to snacks. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned cook, enhance your culinary skills and embrace the nutritional benefits of these protein-packed delights.

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Ingredients

6 large eggs (preferably room temperature)

Water (enough to cover the eggs by about 1 inch)

Ice cubes (for ice bath)

Salt (optional, for seasoning)

Instructions

Prepare Your Eggs: If your eggs are in the fridge, allow them to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps to minimize cracking and allows for an even cooking process.

Boil the Water: In a medium saucepan, fill it with enough water to cover the eggs by one inch. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.

Add the Eggs: Once the water is boiling, gently lower the eggs into the water using a slotted spoon or a wire egg holder to avoid cracking.

Set the Timer: Immediately reduce the heat to medium-low to keep a gentle simmer. Set your timer for your preferred doneness:

- Soft-boiled: 6-7 minutes

- Medium-boiled: 8-9 minutes

- Hard-boiled: 10-12 minutes

Prepare the Ice Bath: While the eggs are cooking, fill a large bowl with ice and cold water to create an ice bath.

Transfer the Eggs: Once the timer goes off, carefully remove the eggs from the boiling water with a slotted spoon and immediately transfer them to the ice bath. Let them sit in the icy water for at least 5-10 minutes. This stops the cooking process and makes peeling easier.

Peeling Your Eggs: After the eggs have cooled, gently tap them on a hard surface to crack the shell, then roll them lightly to loosen. Begin peeling from the wider end, which usually contains the air pocket. Rinse under running water to remove small shell fragments.

Season and Serve: Sprinkle with a pinch of salt before enjoying your perfect hard-boiled eggs, or use them in your favorite recipes like salads, sandwiches, or deviled eggs!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 5 minutes | 20 minutes | 6 eggs