If your childhood memories of hard boiled eggs are limited to dyeing them for Easter and never actually eating them, you’re missing a culinary gem. While the aroma might be a tad overwhelming (best to avoid these on planes or in enclosed spaces if you’re considerate of those with egg allergies), mastering the perfect easy-to-peel hard boiled egg—or experimenting with variations like super-hard or soft boiled eggs—will have you adding these nutritious gems to your meals regularly. Plus, you can whip them up in an Instant Pot and store them in their shells for up to a week in the refrigerator. They make an excellent breakfast option for the entire family, and who knows, you might even pass on this skill to your kids! Here’s a comprehensive guide to cooking the perfect hard boiled egg, along with some delicious variations.
1. Classic Hard Boiled Eggs
Let’s begin with the fundamentals: a basic recipe for traditional hard boiled eggs. These can serve as a foundation for many dishes, and if you follow these steps, they will turn out flawlessly every time.
2. Easy-to-Peel Hard Boiled Eggs
One of the most frustrating aspects of hard boiled eggs is peeling them cleanly. To ensure a hassle-free experience, once you’ve turned off the heat, drain the boiling water and plunge the eggs into an ice bath. This halts the cooking process swiftly and allows the egg to contract from the shell, making peeling a breeze.
3. Instant Pot Hard Boiled Eggs
If you have an Instant Pot, you’re in luck! It’s the ultimate tool for making perfect hard boiled eggs. Depending on your preference, cooking time ranges from three to seven minutes.
4. Extra Hard Hard Boiled Eggs
Are you a fan of yolks that are fully cooked, almost crumbly? If so, you’ll appreciate well-done hard boiled eggs. A helpful chart can provide precise cooking times for achieving that super-hard yolk.
5. Long-Boiling Hard Boiled Eggs
For those who prefer a long boil method, this technique is ideal. The key is a single layer of eggs, combined with cold water and a touch of baking soda.
6. Steamed Hard Boiled Eggs
Although the name might confuse, steaming eggs is reported to be an even better method for hard boiling. The best part? No ice bath necessary!
7. Crock Pot Hard Boiled Eggs
If you don’t own an Instant Pot, your trusty Crock Pot can also be utilized for making hard boiled eggs. Just remember, you’ll need a bit of water for this method.
8. Oven Hard Boiled Eggs
Searching for another approach? This oven technique is a favorite for its simplicity. Bake the eggs for 30 minutes (no water required), then transfer them to an ice bath.
9. Soft Boiled Eggs
If you’ve ever enjoyed a ramen dish topped with that perfect jammy soft boiled egg, this recipe is for you. Bring water to a boil, add the eggs for five to six minutes, and then ice bath them. Once you’ve got this down, these delectable eggs can enhance everything from toast to salads.
Once you’ve created the best hard boiled egg of your life, it’s essential to know how to store them properly. Avoid leaving hard-boiled eggs out for prolonged periods. It’s best to keep them in their shells in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week. Peeled eggs can also be refrigerated for the same duration, but make sure they are submerged in a bowl of water that you change daily to prevent contamination. If not using water, store them in an airtight container with damp paper towels, refreshing the towels each day.
A crucial safety reminder: hard boiled eggs should be consumed within a week of cooking, whether peeled or unpeeled. Better to be cautious! Fortunately, uncooked eggs in their shells can be refrigerated for three to five weeks, giving you ample time to perfect your boiling technique.
If you’re curious about freezing hard boiled eggs in their shells, you can, but the taste may not be as appealing. While the yolks hold up well in the freezer, the whites often do not, so consider that before proceeding.
And for a bit of humor to brighten your day, here are some egg-related puns:
- Where’s the best place to get information about eggs? The hen-cyclopedia.
- What day do eggs dread the most? Fry-day.
- How many French eggs do you need? One egg is un oeuf.
- What did the egg say to the clown? You crack me up.
- Why did the chicken stop in the middle of the road? Because it wanted to lay it on the line.
This article was originally published on March 23, 2020.
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Summary:
Mastering hard boiled eggs is easy with the right techniques. From classic methods to using modern appliances like the Instant Pot or Crock Pot, there are many ways to achieve the perfect egg. Remember to store them properly and enjoy the versatility they offer in your meals!