Boiled eggs are a common food item in many households across the United Kingdom. Whether you prefer your eggs hard-boiled or soft-boiled, they have the ability to elevate various dishes. However, achieving the perfect boiled egg can sometimes feel like a challenging task.
Fortunately, mastering the art of cooking boiled eggs has become more accessible, thanks to a renowned chef sharing his foolproof method. Tom Shepherd, a Michelin-starred chef from Birmingham, has disclosed his expert tips. With a substantial Instagram following exceeding 40,000 and experience in preparing meals for notable figures like Prince William, as well as triumphing with the main course on BBC’s Great British Menu in 2023, Tom’s advice holds significant value.
Tom advises cooking boiled eggs for different durations based on your preference. For a runny yolk, six minutes is recommended, while eight minutes produces a soft yolk, and ten minutes results in a hard yolk. After boiling, Tom emphasizes the importance of immediately transferring the eggs into ice-cold water. If a cool egg is desired, leave it in the water longer, but for a warm egg, limit the time in the ice water to no more than 30 seconds to prevent overcooking from residual heat.
Adding a personal touch, Tom suggests cracking the egg top and seasoning it. His preferred cooking time is seven minutes for eggs that are between soft and hard. To start the cooking process, fill a pot with cold water, bring it to a boil, and gently place the eggs in the boiling water as per your desired doneness.
While some prefer soft-boiled eggs and others opt for hard-boiled, following Tom’s guidance on cooking times ensures a perfect outcome. It is commonly recommended by chefs to transfer the eggs to an ice bath immediately after cooking to maintain the desired consistency. For more culinary insights from Tom, visit his website.