How to Poach an Egg

Poached eggs are truly a delicious way to enjoy breakfast. However, many people tend to stick to the more traditional methods of egg preparing such as frying, boiling, scrambling, or making omelets. And who can blame them` If you've ever attempted to poach an egg, and failed, then you know what it's like to be left with a slimy, gooey, inedible mess. That alone is enough to make you think twice before trying it again. However, there are simple methods out there that should leave you with a perfectly poached egg every time. Try the following process:

1. Don't use a big pot of water. Instead use a medium-sized skillet that has a cover. If it doesn't have its own lid, that's okay. Use one of your other lids that are a close enough fit or a baking sheet or plate. Next fill the skillet with about three inches of water. Turn the heat on high and cover the skillet. In the meantime, crack the desired amount of eggs you want to poach into separate small containers such as coffee cups to prevent breaking the yolk.

2. Strategically place the cups of eggs near the skillet. Remove the cover once the water in the skillet begins boiling. Add salt and about a tablespoon of vinegar to help the egg maintain its shape. You can wash away the vinegar taste in the eggs but placing the finished eggs in a bowl of water. That is, of course, unless you enjoy the taste of vinegar in your eggs. Then you have the option of mixing things up by using herbal vinegar, sherry vinegar, or even apple cider.

3. Now comes the delicate part of this task. To transfer the eggs from the cup or container you are using to hold them, place the lip of the egg cup below the surface of the water and allow the egg to slide out slowly. Once you have accomplished this, replace the cover immediately and turn the heat completely off. Allow the eggs to cook in the hot water for about three minutes for medium-firm yolks. For runny yolks or firmer yolks, simply adjust the cooking time up or down. When they are finished cooking, simply lift the poached egg out of the skillet with a spoon, allowing excess water to drip off. Place them on a piece of toast and enjoy your perfectly poached eggs.

More information on poachers