How to Perfectly Poach an Egg in a Pan
There’s nothing quite like a perfectly poached egg to elevate a dish. Whether you’re making eggs Benedict, a salad, or simply enjoying it on its own, a beautifully poached egg can take your meal to the next level. While poaching an egg may seem intimidating, it’s actually quite simple once you get the hang of it. Here’s how to poach an egg in a pan like a pro:
What You’ll Need:
- Fresh eggs
- A non-stick skillet
- Vinegar
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Fill a non-stick skillet with about two inches of water and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Adding a splash of vinegar to the water can help the egg whites coagulate faster, resulting in a neater shape.
Step 2: Crack the Egg
Crack a fresh egg into a small bowl or ramekin. This will make it easier to slide the egg into the simmering water and will help prevent any shell from getting into the pan.
Step 3: Slide the Egg into the Pan
Using the bowl or ramekin, carefully lower the cracked egg into the simmering water. The water should be hot enough to cook the egg, but not boiling, as this could cause the egg to break apart.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Let the egg cook for about 3-4 minutes for a soft, runny yolk, or 5-7 minutes for a firmer yolk. During this time, you can use a slotted spoon to gently push any stray egg whites closer to the yolk to help it hold its shape.
Step 5: Remove and Drain
Once the egg is cooked to your desired level of doneness, carefully remove it from the water using a slotted spoon. Gently blot the bottom of the spoon on a paper towel to remove any excess water before transferring the egg to your dish.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Now that you’ve mastered the art of poaching an egg in a pan, it’s time to enjoy your creation. Whether you’re serving it on toast, a salad, or as part of a larger dish, a perfectly poached egg is sure to impress.
With these simple steps, you can elevate your cooking game and add a touch of elegance to your meals with a perfectly poached egg. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t flawless. Keep honing your poaching skills, and soon enough, you’ll be poaching eggs like a pro!