Soft-boiled eggs are a culinary delight with firm whites and luscious, creamy yolks that remain delightfully runny. Whether you enjoy them with toast, as a topping for salads, or as a savory addition to ramen, they’re incredibly versatile and easy to make at home. Here’s a foolproof method for achieving the perfect soft-boiled egg every time.

Why We Love Soft-Boiled Eggs

Soft-boiled eggs are a game-changer in the kitchen. The contrast between the firm whites and the silky, molten yolk is pure perfection. They’re not just for breakfast—add them to bowls, salads, soups, or just enjoy them as a quick snack. They elevate any dish with their rich, buttery texture and incredible flavor.

How Long to Boil an Egg for Soft Perfection

To achieve the ideal soft-boiled egg, you’ll need about six minutes of cooking time. This results in fully set whites and a gooey, liquid yolk. For slightly softer whites with a runnier yolk, cook the eggs for 3-5 minutes. Adjust the time if you’re using different-sized eggs or if you’re cooking at high altitude. Here’s a quick guide:

- 3-5 minutes: Soft whites, liquid yolk

- 6 minutes: Fully set whites, runny yolk

- 7 minutes: Jammy yolk, outer edges set

- 8-10 minutes: More set yolk, ranging from half-set to mostly set

How to Boil Eggs Quickly

Boiling eggs can take a while, especially if you’re waiting for a large pot of water to come to a boil. To save time, use a quick steaming method. Add just one inch of water to a pot, which heats up faster than a full pot. The steam cooks the eggs evenly and efficiently, allowing you to enjoy soft-boiled eggs in about six minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Soft-Boiled Eggs

1. Prepare the Pot: Add one inch of water to a sauce pot. Use the smallest pot that fits the number of eggs in a single layer. Cover the pot and bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.

2. Cook the Eggs: Once the water is boiling, gently place the eggs into the pot using tongs or a slotted spoon. Quickly cover the pot with the lid. Set a timer for exactly six minutes.

3. Cool the Eggs: After six minutes, turn off the heat. Transfer the eggs to an ice bath or run them under cool water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool until they’re manageable.

4. Peel and Enjoy: Gently tap the eggs on a hard surface to crack the shell. Peel the shell carefully, starting at the wide end where there’s often an air pocket. Rinse the eggs to remove any remaining shell fragments.

Notes

- Cooking Time: Adjust based on egg size, altitude, and desired consistency. Start with six minutes and adjust as needed.

- Peeling: Peeling can be delicate due to the runny yolk. Be gentle to avoid breaking the egg.

Enjoy Your Soft-Boiled Eggs!

Perfectly soft-boiled eggs are a simple pleasure. Whether you’re adding them to a meal or enjoying them on their own, these eggs bring a touch of elegance and flavor to any dish. Enjoy experimenting with this method and savor the delicious results!