how many minutes for soft boiled egg
How many minutes for a soft boiled egg?
Answer:
Cooking the perfect soft-boiled egg requires precise timing to achieve the desired consistency of the yolk and the whites. The time it takes to soft boil an egg can vary slightly depending on the size of the egg and your altitude, but here is a general guideline to follow:
Steps to Soft Boil an Egg
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Prepare the Eggs and Water:
- Use large eggs for consistent results.
- Fill a saucepan with enough water to cover the eggs by about one inch.
- Bring the water to a gentle boil over medium heat.
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Add the Eggs:
- Carefully place the eggs into the boiling water using a spoon to avoid cracking.
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Timer Settings:
- For soft-boiled eggs with a runny yolk and slightly set whites, boil the eggs for 4 to 5 minutes.
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Cool the Eggs:
- Once the timer goes off, immediately transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water (or cold running water) to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for about 1 to 2 minutes.
- This will also make the eggs easier to handle and peel.
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Peel and Serve:
- Gently tap the eggs on a hard surface to crack the shell, then peel under running water if needed.
- Serve the soft-boiled eggs with toast, a sprinkle of salt, and pepper, or any other preferred seasonings.
Timing Breakdown:
- 4 Minutes:
- Whites will be barely set, and the yolk will be very runny.
- 5 Minutes:
- Whites will be fully set, and the yolk will still be quite runny but slightly thicker.
Final Answer:
To achieve a perfectly soft-boiled egg with a runny yolk and slightly set whites, cook the egg for 4 to 5 minutes.
This method and timing should give you consistent results, providing delicious soft-boiled eggs perfect for various meals or snacks.