Perfectly boiled eggs can be a hassle, but if you want to add boiled eggs to your healthy breakfast diet, it is a skill you want to master. They are a nutrient-dense and versatile food that can be prepared in a variety of ways, including soft boiled, hard boiled, and deviled eggs. In this article, we will focus on hard boiled eggs and share tips on how to achieve perfect hard boiled eggs every time.
Step 1: Choose The Right Eggs
Before we get started, let’s talk about choosing the right eggs. Egg quality and freshness are critical for perfect hard boiled eggs. Choose eggs that are at least a week old. If you use fresh eggs, the eggshells may stick to the egg’s whites when you peel them.
Step 2: Prep The Eggs
To start boiling the eggs, fill a medium pot with enough water to cover the eggs. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the eggs. If you add the eggs to cold water, it will take longer for them to cook. Once the water boils, reduce the heat slightly to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Boil The Eggs
Once the water is simmering, use a slotted spoon to slowly lower the eggs into the pot. Make sure to lower the eggs gently to avoid cracking them. Boil large eggs for about 12 minutes and medium-sized eggs for 9 to 10 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat and let the eggs sit in the water for another minute. This helps the egg whites set and peel off easily.
Step 4: Cool The Eggs
After the eggs have boiled for the right amount of time, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the hot water and place them in a bowl of ice water to cool. Cooling the eggs in ice water is recommended as it makes the eggs easy to peel, prevents overcooking, and also stops the cooking process. Let the eggs sit in the ice water for about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Peel The Eggs
After the eggs have cooled, start peeling them. Cracking the shell at the wider end first, peel the eggs carefully, taking care not to damage the egg white. The best way to peel them is under a running faucet, as the water helps to remove the shell. If you find the shell difficult to peel, try rolling the egg gently on a hard surface, which will help loosen the membrane between the shell and the egg white.
Health Benefits Of Hard Boiled Eggs
Hard boiled eggs are an excellent source of protein, healthy fat, and essential nutrients. Eating eggs also come with plenty of health benefits, which include:
1. Weight Management: Eggs are an excellent source of protein, which helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied for a longer time, reducing the urge to snack between meals and preventing overeating.
2. Promotes Heart Health: Eggs contain choline, which helps control cholesterol and maintain proper brain functions.
3. Good For Strong Bones: Hard boiled eggs are high in vitamin D, which enhances the body’s ability to absorb calcium, promoting healthy bones and teeth.
4. Boosts Brain Function: Eggs contain choline, an essential nutrient required for brain and memory function. They also help reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.
FAQs
1. How long can you keep hard boiled eggs in the fridge?
Hard boiled eggs can last up to seven days in the fridge. Make sure to store them in a container covered with cold water, changing the water every day.
2. Can you freeze hard boiled eggs?
Yes, you can freeze hard boiled eggs. However, it is recommended to peel them before freezing. Place them in a freezer bag and store them for up to three months.
3. Are hard boiled eggs healthier than raw eggs?
Hard boiled and raw eggs have similar nutritional values, but cooking eggs helps to eliminate harmful bacteria like salmonella, which can cause food poisoning.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hard boiled eggs are an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients, making them a perfect addition to your healthy breakfast diet. With the simple tips mentioned above, achieving perfect hard boiled eggs every time is achievable. These tips will help you cook your eggs with the right texture and make them easy to peel. As always, make sure to consume your eggs within a week of cooking them and store them in a cool, dry place.
