Boiling Perfect Eggs: The Ultimate Guide
Boiling an egg seems simple, but it's a little science in itself. Whether the yolk should be runny, waxy, or firm comes down to seconds. Our online egg timer helps you achieve the perfect result every time.
Cooking Times at a Glance (Size M)
| Result | Time (approx.) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Soft-boiled | 5 - 6 min. | Firm whites, runny yolk. Perfect for dipping. |
| Medium-boiled | 7 - 8 min. | The core is still slightly creamy. Ideal for breakfast. |
| Hard-boiled | 9 - 11 min. | Completely firm. Ideal for salads or on the go. |
Factors Influencing Cooking Time
Why does an egg sometimes not turn out the way you want? Here are the three most important factors:
- Egg size: A size L egg (approx. 63g+) takes about 45-60 seconds longer than a size M egg.
- Starting temperature: Eggs straight from the fridge need about 60 seconds more time than room-temperature eggs to heat the core.
- Altitude: In the mountains, water boils at lower temperatures. Here, the cooking time must be slightly increased.
Pro Tip: To shock or not to shock?
If you hold the egg under cold water immediately after boiling ("shocking" it), you interrupt the cooking process. This is especially important for soft-boiled eggs. Contrary to legend, however, this doesn't necessarily make eggs easier to peel – that depends more on the age of the egg (very fresh eggs are usually harder to peel).