How to Cook the Perfect Soft-Boiled Egg

Soft-boiled eggs are cooked in boiling water until the egg white is set, but the yolk remains runny. The cooking time for a soft-boiled egg is about 3 to 4 minutes, depending on your preference. One minute makes a difference! With a 3-minute egg, there may be a bit of unset white around the yolk, while with a 4-minute egg, the white is fully set.

Technique 1: Starting with boiling water

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil.
2. Carefully place the eggs into the water. When the water comes back to a boil, reduce to a gentle simmer.
3. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes.
4. Remove with a slotted spoon. Transfer to a strainer and place under cold running water to stop the cooking, and serve warm.

Technique 2: Starting with cold water

1. Place the eggs in an empty pot and cover them with cold water.
2. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer and cook for 1 minute.
3. Remove and drain as described above.

The microwave is a great tool, but it is not suitable for cooking whole eggs, as they can explode.

Because the white of a soft-boiled egg is just set, trying to peel it will likely result in a shapeless, runny egg. Instead, soft-boiled eggs are typically served by cutting off the top of the shell and then scooping out the delicious, silky-smooth egg with a spoon, or simply dipping pieces of toast into it. It is helpful to use an egg cup to hold the egg upright while you cut and eat.

If you cook your egg a little firmer, with a fully set white and a runny or sticky yolk, you can peel the eggs and use them to enhance many dishes:

• Avocado toast
• Ramen
• Edamame rice mix
• Fried rice

A perfect soft-boiled egg can add sophistication to your dishes and satisfy you with minimal effort.