Egg Boil

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Boiled eggs are quick to make, rich in protein, and incredibly convenient. They require no fancy ingredients or equipment, and you can easily cook multiple eggs at once. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or need a healthy bite on the go, this recipe has you covered. Plus, they’re low in carbs, naturally gluten-free, and keto-friendly.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Eggs
  • Water
  • Ice (for an ice bath)

Directions

  1. Place eggs in a saucepan in a single layer.
  2. Add enough water to cover the eggs by about 1 inch.
  3. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, cover the pan with a lid and turn off the heat.
  5. Let the eggs sit in the hot water:
    • 6 minutes for soft-boiled
    • 9 minutes for medium-boiled
    • 12 minutes for hard-boiled
  6. Immediately transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water and let them sit for 5–10 minutes.
  7. Peel and serve or store for later use.

Servings and timing

Makes 4 servings (1 egg per serving).
Preparation time: 2 minutes
Cooking time: 6–12 minutes (depending on yolk preference)
Cooling time: 5–10 minutes

Variations

  • Spiced eggs: After peeling, sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, or chili flakes.
  • Marinated eggs: Soak peeled eggs in soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic for a savory twist.
  • Deviled eggs: Cut in half, remove yolks, mix yolks with mayo and spices, and refill.
  • Egg salad: Chop boiled eggs and mix with mayo, mustard, and herbs.
  • Jammy eggs: Boil for 6–7 minutes for a soft-set yolk, perfect on toast or noodles.

Storage/Reheating

Store boiled eggs (peeled or unpeeled) in the refrigerator for up to 7 days in an airtight container.
Do not freeze.
To reheat, place a peeled egg in a bowl of hot water for 2–3 minutes. Avoid microwaving whole eggs as they may explode.

FAQs

How can I tell if an egg is fresh?

Place it in water—fresh eggs sink, while older eggs float due to air buildup inside.

Why do boiled eggs sometimes have a green ring around the yolk?

This happens when eggs are overcooked; it’s harmless but can be avoided by proper timing and an ice bath.

How do I make eggs easier to peel?

Use older eggs and cool them quickly in ice water after boiling. Gently tap and roll to loosen the shell.

Can I boil eggs in advance?

Yes, boiled eggs can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

What’s the best way to store boiled eggs?

Keep them in a sealed container in the refrigerator, with or without the shell.

Can I add anything to the water while boiling?

Some people add salt or vinegar to help with peeling, but it’s optional.

How do I know if a boiled egg is bad?

Spoiled eggs will have a strong, unpleasant odor when cracked open—when in doubt, throw it out.

Is it safe to eat soft-boiled eggs?

Yes, if the eggs are pasteurized and fresh, soft-boiled eggs are safe for most people.

Can I reuse the boiling water?

It’s best to use fresh water each time for hygiene and temperature control.

What can I do with leftover boiled eggs?

Use them in salads, sandwiches, egg salad, or slice them over avocado toast.

Conclusion

Boiled eggs are a kitchen essential that’s as simple as it is satisfying. With just water and eggs, you can create a protein-rich food that works in countless dishes or stands alone as a healthy snack. Master the timing, and you’ll always have the perfect boiled egg ready to go.

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Egg Boil

Egg Boil

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Boiled eggs are a nutritious, protein-rich staple that can be prepared soft, medium, or hard, perfect for any meal or snack.

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 2 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6–12 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Snack, Breakfast, Meal Prep
  • Method: Boiled
  • Cuisine: Universal

Ingredients

  • 4 eggs
  • Water (enough to cover eggs by 1 inch)
  • Ice (for ice bath)

Instructions

  1. Place eggs in a saucepan in a single layer.
  2. Add enough water to cover the eggs by about 1 inch.
  3. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Once boiling, cover the pan with a lid and turn off the heat.
  5. Let the eggs sit in the hot water:
    • 6 minutes for soft-boiled
    • 9 minutes for medium-boiled
    • 12 minutes for hard-boiled
  6. Immediately transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water and let sit for 5–10 minutes.
  7. Peel and serve or store for later use.

Notes

  • Use older eggs for easier peeling.
  • Cool eggs quickly in ice water to stop cooking and prevent overcooking.
  • Store boiled eggs in the fridge for up to 7 days.
  • Avoid microwaving whole eggs to prevent explosions.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 egg
  • Calories: 70
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 70mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 0g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 185mg
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