Introduction
This simple egg recipe is perfect for breakfast or brunch, offering a nutritious and delicious start to your day. By using just a few basic ingredients, you can create perfectly cooked eggs with runny yolks and set whites. This cooking method ensures your eggs are flavorful and visually appealing.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1-2 teaspoons olive oil
2 large eggs
Kosher salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 3-5 minutes
Total Time: 8-10 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Enjoy your perfectly cooked eggs with a side of toast or on top of your favorite breakfast bowl!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Skillet
Heat enough oil to lightly coat the bottom of an 8-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: Crack the Eggs
Crack each egg into an individual bowl or ramekin before adding them to the pan. This helps keep the yolks intact and ensures you don’t end up with any pieces of shell in your eggs. Once the oil is shimmering, about 2-3 minutes, move eggs to the pan.
Step 3: Season the Eggs
Season the eggs with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Cook the Eggs
Cook the eggs until the whites are beginning to set, about 2 minutes.
Step 5: Cover the Pan
Cover the pan to set the whites and keep the yolks runny. A glass lid is preferred so you can see exactly when the whites are set. Cook for 1-3 more minutes or until the whites are fully set and opaque, but the yolks remain runny.
Step 6: Transfer and Serve
Carefully transfer the eggs with a large spatula to avoid breaking the fragile yolks. Gently remove them from the pan and serve.
Notes
Tip for Oil
Using just enough olive oil to coat the bottom of the skillet ensures the eggs won’t stick while giving them a nice flavor.
Egg Freshness
For the best results, use the freshest eggs you can find for optimal taste and texture.
Cooking Time Variance
Cooking times may vary based on stove and pan type, so monitor closely to achieve your desired level of doneness for the yolks.
Cook techniques
Oil Heating
Heat enough olive oil to lightly coat the bottom of the skillet over medium heat. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Cracking Eggs
Crack each egg into an individual bowl or ramekin before adding them to the skillet. This technique helps keep the yolk intact and avoids shell pieces in your dish.
Seasoning
Season the eggs with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for enhanced flavor. Adding the seasoning at this stage ensures it adheres well to the eggs.
Cooking Whites
Cook the eggs until the whites begin to set, which should take about 2 minutes. This allows for the whites to cook through while keeping the yolks runny.
Covering the Pan
Cover the skillet to help set the whites while keeping the yolks runny. Using a glass lid allows you to monitor the cooking process without lifting the lid.
Transferring Eggs
Carefully transfer the eggs using a large spatula to avoid breaking the yolks. This ensures the eggs maintain their presentation when served.
FAQ
How do I prevent the yolk from breaking when transferring the eggs?
Use a large spatula and gently slide it under the egg without applying too much pressure on the yolk.
Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
Yes, butter can be used instead of olive oil for a different flavor profile, but it may brown faster, so adjust cooking times accordingly.
What if I prefer my yolks cooked more?
Simply leave the eggs covered for an additional 1-2 minutes until the yolks reach your desired doneness.
Is it necessary to use a nonstick skillet?
While a nonstick skillet is ideal for this method, you can use a regular skillet with a little extra oil to prevent sticking.
Can I add other ingredients, like cheese or vegetables?
Yes, you can add cheese or pre-cooked vegetables after the whites start to set for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Cooking eggs is a simple yet rewarding skill that can elevate any meal. By lightly frying them in olive oil and seasoning with salt and pepper, you can achieve perfectly runny yolks and firm whites. This method not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of sophistication to your breakfast or brunch table.
Eggs with Spinach and Feta
Add fresh spinach and crumbled feta cheese to the pan while cooking the eggs for a nutritious and flavorful combination.
Eggs with Avocado and Salsa
Serve the cooked eggs on top of sliced avocado, drizzled with fresh salsa for a vibrant and healthy dish.
Eggs with Smoked Salmon
Top the finished eggs with slices of smoked salmon and capers for a luxurious brunch option.
Eggs with Herbs
Incorporate fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill into the eggs while they cook for an aromatic twist.
Eggs with Cheese
Sprinkle your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or goat cheese, over the eggs before covering the pan to create a creamy, melty topping.
