Perfectly Soft-Boiled Jammy Eggs
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Recipe Intro From yams_and_yoga
Perfect jammy eggs are your quick ticket to an effortlessly gourmet breakfast or snack! With just two ingredients and a total cook time of under 10 minutes, this recipe proves that simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
Recipe Description
This jammy eggs recipe excels because of its foolproof approach to achieving the ideal balance between firm whites and creamy, jammy yolks. Just 7 minutes of boiling followed by a quick chill to stop the cooking process ensures that every egg is just right. They are a versatile addition to a fresh spinach salad and avocado toast.
- Test Kitchen Notes
- FAQs
- Recipe Card
Test Kitchen Notes
Egg Size and Freshness:
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Size: Use large eggs as they are the standard size for most cooking times provided in recipes, including this one.
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Freshness: Fresh eggs tend to have a more intact yolk and are less likely to break. However, slightly older eggs (about a week old) are often easier to peel once boiled.
Water Temperature: Start with water at a rolling boil before adding the eggs. This helps with timing precision and prevents the eggs from cracking due to temperature shock.
Timing: Precise timing is critical for achieving the perfect jammy texture. Seven minutes will generally yield the ideal consistency where the yolk is slightly runny but beginning to thicken. Adjusting the time by 30 seconds can make the yolk softer or firmer, depending on preference.
Cooling Process: Immediately transferring the eggs to an ice bath after boiling is essential to stop the cooking process. This step also helps in contracting the eggs slightly from the shell, making them easier to peel.
Peeling: Gently rolling the eggs on a flat surface helps crack the shell evenly, facilitating easier peeling. Start peeling from the wider end of the egg, where there is usually an air pocket, to make the process smoother.
Serving Suggestions: Experiment with various toppings and seasonings such as flaky sea salt, cracked black pepper, smoked paprika, or even a drizzle of truffle oil to enhance the flavor. Serve with buttered toast or incorporate it into a salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic glaze.
Storage: If not consuming immediately, store peeled or unpeeled jammy eggs in a covered container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to two days. To reheat, submerge in warm water for a few minutes or halve them and give a quick sear on a hot pan for a warm, slightly crispy edge.
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FAQs
Why is it called a jammy egg?
The term "jammy egg" refers to the texture of the yolk, which is halfway between a fully hard-boiled egg and a runny soft-boiled egg. The yolk is soft and custard-like, similar to the consistency of jam, hence the name "jammy."
Why are jammy eggs so good?
Jammy eggs are celebrated for their ideal balance of textures—the whites are firm and fully set, while the yolk is thick, creamy, and spreadable, much like jam. This combination makes them incredibly satisfying to eat, providing a rich flavor that enhances many dishes. They are also versatile and can be added to salads, ramen, toast, or eaten on their own.
Is it 3 minutes for a soft-boiled egg?
Yes, cooking an egg for about 3 minutes in boiling water typically results in a soft-boiled egg where the whites are set but the yolk remains quite runny. However, the term "soft-boiled" can vary slightly based on the egg's size and the starting temperature, so some adjustment might be needed to achieve the perfect consistency.
Do you put eggs in boiling water or cold?
When making jammy eggs, it is best to start with eggs in boiling water. This method allows for more precise control over the cooking time, which is crucial for achieving the perfect jammy consistency. Starting with cold water is more common for hard-boiled eggs, as it promotes easier peeling and less risk of cracking but doesn't offer as much precision for softer styles.
Recipe Card
ingredients
- 2 large pasture raised eggs (or as many as needed)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Method
Step 1
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 2
Fill a bowl with ice water and set aside.
Step 3
Using a slotted spoon, carefully lower the eggs into the boiling water.
Step 4
Cook the eggs for exactly 7 minutes, ensuring the water maintains a gentle boil throughout.
Step 5
After 7 minutes, remove the eggs from the boiling water and immediately place them into a water bath consisting of cold water and ice. Let them cool in the bath for 2 minutes.
Step 6
Remove the eggs from the water bath. To peel, gently crack the eggshells by rolling the eggs under your hand on a hard surface. Then, carefully peel off the shell.
Step 7
Slice the eggs in half and serve as desired.