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Easy Poached Eggs Recipe

4.9 from 92 reviews

This recipe guides you through the simple process of making perfectly poached eggs with tender whites and a runny yolk. Using a gentle simmer and a whirlpool technique, you can create delicate poached eggs ideal for breakfast or as a topping for salads and toast.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 1 large egg
  • Pot of water (enough to fill a saucepan about 3 inches deep)
  • 1 tablespoon white distilled vinegar

Instructions

  1. Crack: Crack the entire egg into a small bowl or ramekin carefully to keep the yolk intact and to make it easier to slide the egg into the water.
  2. Simmer: Bring a pot of water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low so the water simmers gently. Add the vinegar and stir well to help the egg whites coagulate quickly.
  3. Drop: Create a whirlpool effect in the simmering water by stirring with a slotted spoon. Gently slide the egg from the bowl into the center of the whirlpool. This motion helps the egg white wrap around the yolk for a neat shape.
  4. Cook Egg: Let the egg cook for 2 to 4 minutes until the whites are just set but the yolk remains soft and slightly runny. Test firmness by gently touching the egg white with the slotted spoon.
  5. Drain: Use the slotted spoon to lift the poached egg out of the water, allowing excess water to drain off. Transfer it to a plate and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh eggs for the best poaching results, as fresher eggs hold their shape better in water.
  • The vinegar helps the egg whites to coagulate faster but should be used sparingly to avoid altering the flavor of the egg.
  • The whirlpool technique helps maintain a compact shape, but if cooking multiple eggs, poach one at a time for best results.
  • Adjust cooking time depending on how runny or firm you prefer your yolk.
  • Serve poached eggs on toasted bread, salads, or with hollandaise sauce for classic variations like Eggs Benedict.

Keywords: poached eggs, easy poached eggs, stovetop poached eggs, breakfast eggs, simple egg recipe