Tracy Hilton here from Food and Meal, excited to share with you one of my favorite simple breakfast recipes – perfectly jammy Soft-Boiled Eggs!
As a busy mom trying to get the kids fed and off to school in the mornings, I’m always looking for quick, protein-packed breakfasts that don’t require a ton of prep or cleanup. That’s why soft-boiled eggs are my savior! In just a few minutes, you can have a nutritious hot breakfast ready to grab and go.
I’ve been enjoying soft-boiled eggs since my grandmother used to make them for me as a child. She would toast up a couple slices of her homemade bread, butter them generously, and serve alongside a still-warm soft-boiled egg in an egg cup. After cracking open the top, I’d eagerly dip my buttered toast soldiers into that golden runny yolk!
Even now, soft-boiled eggs bring back those cozy childhood memories. The technique is so simple – gently boiling eggs for just 4-5 minutes yields that perfect jammy texture without any gray rings around the yolk. Seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper and paired with toast, they make for a wonderfully comforting breakfast.
Soft-Boiled Eggs Recipes
Soft-Boiled Eggs
Equipment
Ingredients
- 6 large egg at room temperature
Instructions
- With a pin, make a small hole in the rounded bottom of each egg.
- Fill a large saucepan with water and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium so that the water is at a hard simmer. Gently lay the eggs in the water using a spoon. For the first 2 minutes, use chopsticks to spin the eggs around gently in a circle. This helps the yolk set in the center of the white part, making for a nicer presentation.
- Let simmer for 4 more minutes.
- While the eggs are simmering, prepare an ice water bath in a large bowl big enough to comfortably hold the eggs.
- When the eggs are finished cooking, drain them first, then run cold water over them to cool them down quickly. Transfer the eggs to the ice water bath and let them sit for about 5 minutes, until they are completely chilled. Remove the eggs from the ice water bath and refrigerate until ready to use. Unpeeled eggs will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- To serve the soft-boiled eggs, carefully peel them and slice them in half lengthwise. Float 1 or 2 halves on top of a bowl of ramen.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
© Food And Meal
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Alternative Method: Soft-Boiled Eggs in a Sous Vide Precision Cooker
To prepare perfectly cooked sous vide eggs, begin by setting up your sous vide precision cooker. Fill a sous vide container or a large pot with water and attach the precision cooker, setting the temperature to 167°F (75°C). Carefully place the eggs in a single layer in a Ziplock bag or vacuum-sealed bag, adding a pinch of salt for flavor. Remove air from the bag and seal it using the water displacement method for Ziplock bags or following the manufacturer’s instructions for vacuum sealers. Gently place the sealed bags into the preheated water bath, ensuring the eggs are fully submerged. Cook the eggs for 13-15 minutes to achieve a perfect soft-boiled consistency. Once cooked, remove the eggs from the bags and transfer them to an ice water bath to cool rapidly. Peel the eggs, season with salt and pepper if desired, and serve immediately for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Tips for making Soft-Boiled Eggs
Cooking Tips
First up, start with eggs straight from the fridge. Cold eggs are less likely to get that unappetizing gray-green ring around the yolk. Gently lower them into already boiling water and set a timer for just 4 to 5 minutes. I prefer 4 minutes for a set white and oozing orange yolk, but 5 minutes yields a slightly more firm yet still luscious center.
Now, the fun part – stopping the cooking process. As soon as the timer goes off, drain and submerge the eggs into an ice bath. This halts the cooking immediately so they don’t get overdone. Let them chill for a minute before gently cracking and peeling under cold running water.
Finally, season those beauties with a tiny pinch of fine sea salt and white pepper. The salt enhances and balances the rich yolk, while the pepper adds a subtle kick. I like to arrange them in darling vintage egg cups and serve alongside hot buttered toast cut into “soldiers” for dunking in the golden centers!
Serving Suggestions
Soft-boiled eggs are a versatile and delicious addition to many dishes. One serving suggestion is to enjoy them atop a bowl of steaming hot ramen, such as Yakimiso Ramen or Tonkotsu Ramen, adding a rich and creamy texture to the broth. Another option is to incorporate them into a traditional Japanese breakfast alongside a bowl of rice, miso soup, and pickled vegetables like in a Japanese Breakfast Set. For a light and refreshing salad option, serve soft-boiled eggs sliced over a bed of fresh spinach or kale, complemented by a tangy vinaigrette dressing like in a Kale Caesar Salad. Soft-boiled eggs can also be enjoyed as a standalone snack or appetizer, seasoned with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, paired with Soy Dipping Sauce for dipping. Whether integrated into a main course or enjoyed on their own, soft-boiled eggs offer a delightful burst of flavor and velvety texture to any meal.
Frequently Asked Questions about soft-boiled eggs
- How Can I Tell When Soft-Boiled Eggs Are Done? Soft-boiled eggs are typically done when the whites are set, and the yolks are still runny. If you’re using a timer, aim for 4-5 minutes of cooking time.
- Can I Make Soft-Boiled Eggs in Advance? While it’s best to enjoy soft-boiled eggs immediately, you can cook them in advance and store them in the fridge. To reheat, place them in hot (not boiling) water for a few minutes.
- How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Runny Yolk? Achieving a runny yolk is about precise timing. Start with room temperature eggs, cook for the recommended time, and shock in an ice bath to stop cooking.
- Are Soft-Boiled Eggs Safe to Eat ? Soft-boiled eggs are safe to eat as long as they are cooked at the right temperature and for the recommended time. Using fresh eggs and proper handling also reduces risks.
- Can I Use Soft-Boiled Eggs in Other Dishes? Absolutely! Soft-boiled eggs can be added to salads, ramen, sandwiches, or enjoyed as a standalone snack. Their creamy yolk can enhance various dishes.
Conclusion
I hope you’ve enjoyed this little foray into simple yet satisfying breakfasts as much as I have. There’s just something so warm and comforting about a perfectly jammy soft-boiled egg to start your day.
If you give these Soft-Boiled Eggs a try, I’d love to hear how they turn out! Post a photo on Instagram and tag @foodandmeal so I can see your delicious creations. Did you enjoy them with buttered toast soldiers or try another serving suggestion? I’m always looking for new ways to enjoy this humble breakfast.
And be sure to keep checking the Food and Meal blog for more weekday morning cooking inspiration. When I’m getting the kids fed and ready for school, I rely on healthy, protein-packed breakfasts that can be prepped quickly. Soft-boiled eggs definitely fit the bill! I’ll share more of my favorite easy recipes along with tips for making them in a time crunch.
I'm Tracy F Hilton, a devoted culinary professional shaped by a mix of natural aptitude and refined skills from a top culinary school. In the dynamic kitchen environment, I'm a catalyst for seamless operations and timely, high-quality dish preparation. My culinary creations are a blend of art and skill, offering visually and gustatorily delightful experiences. A learner at heart, I'm continuously honing my craft, embracing new techniques, and culinary innovations. My positive, collaborative nature is amplified in fast-paced settings, showcasing my commitment to team efficiency and guest satisfaction. Each dish I present is a meticulous blend of tradition and innovation, promising an unforgettable dining experience that marries taste, aroma, and aesthetic appeal in perfect harmony. Join me on a gastronomic journey where each bite encapsulates a rich, evolving narrative of flavors and culinary artistry.