Poaching an egg may seem like a daunting task, but it’s a simple cooking technique that can elevate your breakfast or brunch game! This method involves gently cooking eggs in simmering water, resulting in tender whites and a runny yolk. Plus, poached eggs can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic eggs Benedict to vibrant salads. In this article, we’ll explore three diverse examples of how to poach an egg, so you can choose the method that works best for you!
When you think of poached eggs, the classic stovetop method often comes to mind. This technique is straightforward and perfect for beginners.
Start by filling a saucepan with about 3 inches of water and add a splash of vinegar (this helps the egg whites to set quickly). Bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium heat. While waiting, crack an egg into a small bowl – this makes it easier to slip the egg into the water. Once the water is simmering, create a gentle whirlpool by stirring the water with a spoon. Slowly slide the egg from the bowl into the center of the whirlpool. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until the whites are set but the yolk remains runny. Carefully lift the egg out with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel before serving.
Notes: For added flavor, experiment with different types of vinegar like apple cider or red wine vinegar. You can also season the poached egg with salt and pepper right before serving!
Did you know you can poach an egg in the microwave? This method is super quick and convenient, perfect for busy mornings!
To start, fill a microwave-safe bowl with about half a cup of water and add a pinch of salt. Crack an egg into the water. To prevent the egg from exploding, cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate or lid. Microwave on high for about 45 seconds. Check the egg; if the whites aren’t quite set, microwave for an additional 10 seconds at a time until done. Once cooked, carefully remove the bowl (it will be hot!) and use a slotted spoon to lift out the egg. Let it drain on a paper towel before enjoying.
Notes: Every microwave is different, so you may need to adjust the cooking time. For a little extra flavor, sprinkle some herbs or cheese on top before microwaving!
If you own an Instant Pot, you can use it to poach eggs effortlessly while preparing other dishes. This method is fantastic for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Start by adding 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot. Place a steamer basket or a trivet in the pot. Next, crack eggs into silicone molds (or ramekins) and place them in the basket. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 3 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, do a quick release of the pressure. Carefully remove the molds from the pot, and let them cool for a minute before gently popping out the poached eggs. Serve immediately with toast or over a salad.
Notes: You can add seasonings like salt, pepper, or even cheese to the eggs in the molds before cooking for extra flavor. This method is also great for making multiple eggs at once!