To hard boil eggs perfectly, the general method is:
- Place eggs in a single layer in a pot and cover with cold water by about 1 inch.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the eggs sit in the hot water for 10 to 12 minutes depending on your preferred yolk texture:
- 10 minutes for creamy, vibrant yolks
- 12 minutes for fully set, opaque yolks with a firmer texture
- After cooking, transfer the eggs to an ice bath for at least 5 to 15 minutes to stop cooking and make peeling easier
Cooking time variations based on yolk preference:
- 6 minutes: soft, liquid-y yolk
- 8 minutes: jammy yolk, just starting to set
- 10 minutes: mostly set but still creamy yolk
- 12 minutes: fully hard-boiled yolk, firm but tender
- 14 minutes: very firm yolk, not overcooked yet
This method ensures evenly cooked eggs with easy-to-peel shells and avoids green rings around the yolk. Starting with cold water and using an ice bath are key steps for best results
