To boil eggs, the cooking time depends on how you like the yolk:
- For a runny yolk with set whites, boil for about 5–6 minutes.
- For a soft, slightly runny yolk, boil for 7–8 minutes.
- For a classic hard-boiled egg with a fully set yolk, boil for 10 minutes.
- Boiling longer (12–14 minutes) results in a firmer yolk but can be drier.
A recommended method is to bring water to a boil first, then gently lower fridge-cold eggs into the boiling water, reduce the heat slightly to maintain a gentle boil, and start timing. After the desired time, transfer the eggs to cold water to stop cooking and make peeling easier
. Summary of boiling times:
Desired Doneness| Boiling Time
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Runny yolk, set white| 5–6 minutes
Soft boiled| 7–8 minutes
Hard boiled| 10 minutes
Very firm hard boiled| 12–14 minutes
Peeling is easier if you peel from the base under water after cooling the eggs in cold water
