I. Introduction
Boiled eggs are a staple of many breakfast plates, salads, and snacks. However, it can be a struggle to know whether boiled eggs are done, especially for those who are new to cooking. But knowing how to cook boiled eggs correctly is key to avoiding undercooked eggs, overcooked eggs, or difficult-to-peel eggs.
Fortunately, there are six simple tests you can perform to check whether boiled eggs are done. Each test has its advantages and limitations, so it’s up to you to determine which test works best for you. Here’s a rundown of the six tests.
II. The Spin Test
The spin test is probably the easiest and quickest way to determine whether boiled eggs are done. Here’s how to do it:
- Place the egg on a flat surface, such as a kitchen table or countertop.
- Spin the egg gently with your fingers.
- Observe the speed of the spinning. If the egg spins rapidly and steadily, it’s done. If the egg wobbles or stops spinning quickly, it’s not done yet.
Advantages: The spin test is quick, easy, and doesn’t require any special equipment.
Limitations: The spin test might not be accurate for very fresh or very old eggs, as they might have more wobbly yolks than those in between.
III. The Float Test
The float test is another quick and easy test to determine whether boiled eggs are done. Here’s how to do it:
- Fill a bowl with cold water.
- Gently place the egg in the water.
- Observe whether the egg floats or sinks. If the egg floats, it’s done. If it sinks, it’s not done yet.
Advantages: The float test doesn’t require any special equipment.
Limitations: The float test might not be accurate for very fresh or very old eggs. If the egg stands upright on the bottom of the bowl instead of lying flat, it might be too old to eat.
IV. The Peel Test
The peel test is the most popular test among seasoned chefs. Here’s how to do it:
- Tap the egg gently on a hard surface to crack the shell.
- Peel off the shell, starting from the bottom of the egg.
- Observe the texture of the egg white and yolk. If the egg white is firm and the yolk is golden, it’s done. If the egg white is runny and the yolk is not set, it’s not done yet.
Advantages: The peel test is the most reliable and accurate test for determining whether boiled eggs are done.
Limitations: The peel test is time-consuming and it also tends to waste the egg if it’s not done yet.
V. The Time Test
The time test determines whether boiled eggs are done based on the cooking time. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Add the eggs to the pot.
- Boil the eggs for a certain amount of time, depending on the level of doneness you want. For example, six minutes for soft-boiled eggs or 12 minutes for hard-boiled eggs.
Advantages: The time test is straightforward and easy to follow.
Limitations: The time test might not be accurate if you’re not sure about the size and freshness of the eggs or the intensity of the flame.
VI. The Crack Test
The crack test is a simple but effective way to check whether boiled eggs are done. Here’s how to do it:
- Remove the egg from the pot of boiling water using a slotted spoon.
- Place the egg gently on a kitchen towel.
- Tap the egg gently on the towel with the back of a spoon, creating a crack on the shell.
- Peel off the shell slightly to observe the texture of the egg white and yolk. If the egg white is firm and the yolk is golden, it’s done. If the egg white is runny and the yolk is not set, it’s not done yet.
Advantages: The crack test is quick and easy to perform.
Limitations: The crack test might not be accurate for very fresh or very old eggs.
VII. The Thermometer Test
The thermometer test is the most accurate test for determining whether boiled eggs are done, as it can give you the exact temperature of the egg. Here’s how to do it:
- Insert a thermometer into the thickest part of the egg, making sure it doesn’t touch the shell.
- Take note of the temperature. For soft-boiled eggs, it should be between 144-149°F (62-65°C), and for hard-boiled eggs, it should be between 158-170°F (70-76°C).
Advantages: The thermometer test is the most accurate and consistent test for determining whether boiled eggs are done.
Limitations: The thermometer test requires a thermometer, and it can also puncture the egg, which might affect its texture.
VIII. Conclusion
Knowing when boiled eggs are done is crucial for preparing them perfectly. Whether you prefer soft-boiled or hard-boiled eggs, there are six tests you can perform to check their doneness: the spin test, the float test, the peel test, the time test, the crack test, and the thermometer test. Each test has its advantages and limitations, so it’s up to you to decide which one works best for you.
If you’re new to cooking eggs, general tips for cooking perfect boiled eggs include using cold water, avoiding high heat, and letting the eggs sit in cold water after boiling for easy peeling. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different cooking methods to find the one that works best for you.
