If you’ve been apprehensive about making poached eggs, you’ll be surprised how easy it actually is. Poaching, like boiling and scrambling, is a popular method of cooking eggs. When done probably, poached eggs have soft texture with a runny yolk. They can be served with anything from fresh toast to soups, and are full of nutrients too.
What are Poached Eggs?
Poached eggs are those made by simply simmering them. The aim is to make sure the egg white and yolk stay intact, while maintaining a soft texture. Others prefer poached eggs with a crusty yolk and a runny center. Eggs are usually gently simmered in water. However, some cooks occasionally simmer eggs in broths and other liquids.
Benefits of Poached Eggs
Not only are poached eggs delicious, they can also be served with a range of dishes. When served with bread, they make a great breakfast. You can also serve them with soups and stews for a filling lunch. Eggs are, of course, nutritious as well. They contain a lot of protein, iron, folate, selenium and choline. Vitamins found in eggs include vitamins A, B, D and E.
Having several servings of poached eggs a week can keep you from overeating, since eggs are full of protein. Another health benefit is that their vitamins can give you lasting energy and speed up metabolism. Minerals iron, folate, selenium and choline work together to improve blood pressure, blood cell production, bones, muscle and disease-prevention.
How to Make Poached Eggs
You can make poached eggs in an ordinary saucepan or a steamer also known as an “egg poacher”. Be sure to use fresh eggs and avoid adding salt to the water you’re poaching eggs with.
Making the Perfect Poached Eggs in a Pan
Ingredients
- 1 egg
- 2 cups water
Instructions
- Pour 1-2 cups of water in a pan. Heat the water over medium-low heat. Gently crack an egg into a bowl or container, making sure the egg is intact.
- When water comes to a low boil, carefully slide the egg into the pan. If the egg has been in the fridge, cook for 3 minutes. If egg was kept at room temperature, poach for 2 ½ minutes.
- When eggs are done, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the water. Season poached eggs and serve.
Nutrition
Poached Eggs Tips and Tricks
There are many different devices designed to poach eggs. Most feature egg cups to help eggs stay together. If you find making poached eggs in a pan challenging, using these devices might be easier. Be warned about methods that recommend the use of vinegar. Although vinegar does help to hold eggs together, it adds an unpleasant acidic taste.
Another great tip for making perfectly poached eggs is to swirl the water before gently sliding in the eggs. Water should still be swirling when you add eggs, and should not be too hot or too cold. A low bubble is ideal. After eggs are cooked, drain any water left with paper towels.
When made correctly, poached eggs make a nutritious addition to breakfast, brunches and lunches. You can eat them as is or with bread, soups and salads. Make sure you boil water at the ideal temperature and to use fresh eggs.
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