11 Ways to Boil Soft-Boiled Eggs Fragrant, Delicious, Creamy, and Easy to Make at Home

Not everyone knows how to boil soft-boiled eggs to achieve the desired tenderness, lightness, and deliciousness. Soft-boiled eggs, fragrant and creamy, are not only a weight-loss breakfast but also provide a wonderful culinary experience and essential nutrition for the body. Check out how to boil soft-boiled eggs with Mytour Blog.

Benefits of Eating Soft-Boiled Eggs

With its soft and creamy yolk, soft-boiled eggs are a nutritious and easy-to-eat dish suitable for both adults and children. Soft-boiled eggs provide all the essential nutrients needed for effective body functioning.

Especially, soft-boiled eggs are rich in protein, providing energy for the body, enhancing health, and muscle development. Additionally, the egg yolk contains many unsaturated fats that promote heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Moreover, enjoying soft-boiled eggs helps improve skin, hair, and nails due to the abundant vitamins and minerals in the eggs.

How Long to Soft-Boil Eggs for a Creamy Yolk?

To achieve a creamy and delicious yolk when boiling chicken or duck eggs, you need to master the time and temperature. The maximum boiling time is 12 minutes for a fully set yolk. Here are some time milestones for your reference to boil eggs and achieve the desired softness, creaminess, and doneness. Boil from when the water starts boiling:

• 3 minutes: Eggs with a runny yolk
• 5 minutes: Eggs with a slightly thicker runny yolk
• 7 minutes: Eggs with a 70% set yolk
• 9 minutes: Eggs with a 40% set yolk
• 11 minutes: Eggs with a 20% set yolk.

Thus, the most delicious state of soft-boiled eggs is to boil for 4-5 minutes for a runny yolk and 5-6 minutes for a slightly thicker runny yolk.

However, you need to note that the mentioned time may vary slightly depending on the size and type of eggs you use. Larger eggs and thicker eggshells require a longer boiling time. You can boil for a few minutes and check if the yolk is as soft and runny as desired. If not, you can boil for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Note: The boiling process should be carried out at a medium heat to avoid overcooking the egg yolk.

Tips, Techniques for Delicious Soft-Boiled Eggs

Before trying any soft-boiled egg cooking method, familiarize yourself with the following tips and techniques. Combining these tips and techniques with various boiling methods will help you achieve the 'perfection' for your soft-boiled eggs.

• Freshness of eggs: The freshness of eggs can impact the peeling process. Fresh eggs are harder to peel than older ones. So, if you plan to boil eggs for easy peeling, use eggs purchased a few days ago.
• Boil water before adding eggs: Some believe boiling water before adding eggs helps achieve the desired softness of the egg yolk.
• Soak eggs in cold water after boiling: Soaking eggs in cold water after boiling makes them easier to peel and keeps the egg yolk at a beautiful softness.
• Gently shake eggs before boiling: Gently shaking eggs before boiling can help the egg yolk stay in the center after cooking, creating the perfect soft-boiled egg shape.
• Consider boiling time: Boiling time depends on the size and type of eggs. Boiling time can range from 3 to 11 minutes depending on the desired yolk consistency.

Secrets to Boil Soft-Boiled Eggs Without Unpleasant Odor

Boiling eggs to ensure the yolks are not unpleasantly odorous requires careful and meticulous preparation. Here are some secrets:

• Choose fresh eggs: Fresh eggs minimize the risk of unpleasant odors. Before boiling, check eggs by placing them in a bowl of water. Fresh eggs will sink to the bottom, while older eggs will float.
• Boil at the right temperature: Cooking temperature affects the flavor of the eggs. If eggs are boiled at too high a temperature, the yolks may become odorous. To avoid this, boil eggs at a moderate temperature and ensure the water is gently simmering.
• Soak eggs in cold water after boiling: Immediately after boiling, soak the eggs in cold water. This not only makes peeling easier but also prevents a chemical reaction that can turn the yolks green and odorous.
• Don't overcook the eggs: Overcooking eggs can result in darkening and unpleasant odor of the yolks. Boiling time for soft-boiled eggs should range from 3 to 11 minutes depending on the desired consistency.

How to Boil Soft-Boiled Eggs for Different Types of Eggs

Soft-boiled eggs are incompletely cooked eggs, suitable for both snacks and main dishes. Eggs contain a rich supply of protein, fats, various vitamins, and beneficial minerals. Additionally, soft-boiled eggs contain zeaxanthin and lutein, which help prevent eye-related diseases. However, each type of egg requires different boiling times and methods. Specifically:

How to Boil Soft-Boiled Chicken and Duck Eggs

Ingredients:

• 2 duck or chicken eggs.
• Boiling pot.
• 1 bowl of cold water with ice.

Execution Steps:

• Step 1: Rinse the eggs with clean water.
• Step 2: Add water to the pot and place it on the stove (ensure the water covers ⅔ of the eggs).
• Step 3: Once the water is boiling, add the cleaned eggs and boil for about 5 minutes for a soft-boiled consistency (Note: if the eggs are refrigerated, boil for an additional 30 seconds).
• Step 4: After 5 minutes, transfer the boiled eggs directly into a bowl of ice water and let them sit for about 3 minutes for easy peeling.

With these simple steps, you'll have a delightful and addictive portion of soft-boiled chicken or duck eggs.

How to Boil Quail Eggs with Runny Yolk

Boiling quail eggs with runny yolk is equally delicious and rich compared to chicken eggs. Here's a simple guide for you:

Ingredients Needed: 

• 10 regular quail eggs.
• Boiling pot.
• 1 bowl of ice-cold water.

Steps to Follow: 

• Step 1: Clean the quail eggs thoroughly with water.
• Step 2: Pour water into the pot and bring it to a boil.
• Step 3: Once the water is boiling, add the cleaned quail eggs and boil for about 1 minute.
• Step 4: Retrieve the boiled quail eggs and place them in a bowl of ice-cold water for easy peeling.

One thing to note is that quail eggs with runny yolk are very small and delicate, so peel the eggs gently to avoid breakage. You can enjoy them immediately or soak them in soy sauce for enhanced flavor.

How to Boil Goose Eggs with Runny Yolk

Goose eggs are characterized by being larger than chicken, duck, or quail eggs. Therefore, the boiling time for goose eggs is longer than that for other types of eggs.

Ingredients to Prepare:

• 1 goose egg.
• Boiling pot.
• 1 bowl of ice-cold water.

Steps to Follow:

• Step 1: Rinse goose egg with clean water.
• Step 2: Place the egg in a pot, fill with water covering ⅔ of the egg, and heat it on the stove. When the water boils, add a pinch of salt to make peeling easier.
• Step 3: Wait for about 9 minutes for the egg to have a delicious runny yolk.
• Step 4: After the egg is cooked, immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice-cold water for about 3 minutes. Then peel the eggshell and enjoy.

Goose eggs are rich in vitamins and minerals, especially beneficial for pregnant women. Avoid boiling goose eggs for too long as it may deplete the nutrients in the egg.

Various Methods for Boiling Delicious, Tender, and Semi-Cooked Soft-Boiled Eggs

Here, we'll explore the Japanese method of boiling soft-boiled eggs, an incredibly simple yet effective way to achieve tender and delicious soft-boiled eggs.

1. Japanese-Style Soft-Boiled Eggs

This method utilizes the natural cooling of the water after turning off the heat to incubate the eggs, resulting in soft-boiled eggs with a distinctive creamy yolk.

• Step 1: First, boil about 1 liter of water in a large pot. When the water is vigorously boiling, add 200ml of cold water to lower the water temperature.
• Step 2: Next, turn off the heat and place the eggs in the pot, then cover with a lid. Let the eggs incubate in the hot water for 17-20 minutes.
• Step 3: Finally, prepare a bowl of ice water. After incubating the eggs, use a spout to quickly transfer the eggs from the pot to the bowl of ice water. Wait for about 1 minute, and the eggs will cool down, allowing you to start peeling the shells for enjoyment.

This method will help you achieve soft-boiled eggs with a distinctive creamy yolk, Japanese style. Remember that boiling soft-boiled eggs requires patience and precision in each step.

2. Boiling Soft-Boiled Eggs with a Rapid Boiling Pot

If you want to boil soft-boiled eggs quickly and conveniently, using a rapid boiling pot is the perfect choice. Let's explore how to do it.

• Step 1: First, clean the eggs and the rapid boiling pot before use. This is crucial to ensure food hygiene and prevent bacteria and dirt.
• Step 2: Next, place each egg into the pot. Then, pour water into the pot to completely cover the surface of the eggs. If you pour too little water, the eggs may not cook evenly.
• Step 3: Finally, turn on the switch of the rapid boiling pot. When the water starts boiling, wait for about 4-5 minutes for the eggs to set and create the soft-boiled yolk.

With this method, you'll have delicious and creamy soft-boiled eggs in just a few minutes. Simple and convenient, isn't it?

3. Cold Water Method for Boiling Soft-Boiled Eggs

The method of boiling soft-boiled eggs using cold water is an incredibly simple and easy-to-follow approach. Let's delve into the detailed steps.

• Step 1: First, simply place the eggs in a pot and pour cold water to completely submerge the eggs. Ensuring that the eggs are fully submerged in water helps cook them evenly and prevents cracking.
• Step 2: Next, place the pot on the stove and turn on the heat. Bring the water in the pot to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, set a timer and boil the eggs for about 6 minutes.
• Step 3: Finally, after boiling, carefully scoop out the eggs and immerse them in cold water for 2-3 minutes. This not only makes it easier to peel the eggs but also helps maintain the shape of the eggs without deformation after peeling.

Using the cold water method for boiling soft-boiled eggs ensures you get creamy and delicious eggs without investing too much time and effort.

4. Boiling Soft-Boiled Eggs Using Induction Cooker

The induction cooker is becoming an indispensable appliance in every household due to its ability to cook quickly and save energy. Here is a detailed guide on how to boil soft-boiled eggs using an induction cooker.

• Step 1: First, place the eggs and water in a pot, then put it on the induction cooker. Set the temperature to 2000 degrees Celsius or Auto mode and heat until the water starts boiling.
• Step 2: When the water is boiling, continue boiling at this temperature for an additional 4-5 minutes. This time helps the egg whites to fully set, creating soft-boiled eggs with a creamy yolk.
• Step 3: Finally, scoop out the eggs and place them in a bowl of ice water for 2-3 minutes. The ice water helps cool down the eggs quickly, making the peeling process easier and maintaining a beautiful shape for the eggs.

Boiling soft-boiled eggs using an induction cooker is an extremely quick and convenient method. Try applying this approach to enjoy delicious and enticing soft-boiled eggs!

5. Boiling Soft-Boiled Eggs Using Rice Cooker

A rice cooker is not only used for cooking rice but can also be utilized to boil soft-boiled eggs with the simple steps outlined below.

• Step 1: First, clean the eggs before placing them into the rice cooker for boiling. Ensuring food hygiene is an essential step for a delicious and safe meal.
• Step 2: Next, pour water into the rice cooker so that it covers about half the height of the eggs. Close the lid and turn on the rice cooking mode. When the rice cooker switches to the keep-warm mode, turn off the cooker and scoop out the eggs.
• Step 3: Finally, soak the eggs in cold water for about 2-3 minutes, then peel and enjoy.

Boiling soft-boiled eggs using a rice cooker helps you save time and effort while still ensuring the delicious and tender texture of soft-boiled eggs.

6. Microwave Soft-Boiled Eggs

Although microwaves are not typically recommended for boiling eggs, with the right technique, you can still safely and easily make soft-boiled eggs using a microwave. Here's a guide on how to do it.

• Step 1: First, spread a thin layer of cooking oil on a plate. The oil helps prevent the eggs from sticking to the plate during cooking.
• Step 2: Crack the egg onto the plate, then gently poke the yolk with a fork to create a small hole. These holes release air inside the egg, preventing it from exploding during cooking.
• Step 3: Place the egg plate in the microwave, set it to 500W for about 40 seconds. The cooking time may need adjustment depending on your microwave's power.
• Step 4: Finally, when the egg is cooked, remove the plate, sprinkle some seasoning on top, and enjoy the delicious, tender, homemade soft-boiled egg.

Note that microwaving eggs requires caution to avoid the risk of egg explosion. Always monitor the cooking process and carefully follow the instructions.

7. Air Fryer Soft-Boiled Eggs

Air fryers are gaining popularity for their versatile cooking capabilities while maintaining healthiness. Here's how you can use an air fryer to make soft-boiled eggs.

• Step 1: Start by cleaning the eggs and placing them in the air fryer basket. Before cooking, ensure that you have cleaned the eggs for food safety.
• Step 2: Next, close the air fryer lid and set the temperature to 250°C, with a cooking time of about 10 minutes. This is the optimal time to achieve soft and delicious egg yolks.
• Step 3: Finally, after the cooking time is complete, open the air fryer and carefully remove the eggs, placing them in a bowl of ice water. The ice water helps rapidly reduce the egg temperature, making it easier to peel and preserving the shape of the egg.

Using an air fryer to cook soft-boiled eggs not only saves you time but also produces interesting and delicious soft-boiled eggs.

8. Easy-to-Peel Soft-Boiled Eggs with Vinegar

Achieving eggs that are easy to peel can be a challenge, but if you know the trick of using vinegar, everything becomes much easier. Here's a detailed guide on how to boil soft-boiled eggs for easy peeling using vinegar.

• Step 1: Start by washing the eggs with water and letting them dry. Then, use a needle to poke a small hole at the egg's end. This allows air to escape during boiling, making the eggs easier to peel.
• Step 2: Boil about 500ml of filtered water with 2 tablespoons of vinegar, then reduce the heat. Always use filtered water and avoid adding salt to ensure the eggs won't crack while boiling.
• Step 3: Next, place the eggs in the pot and boil for approximately 6 minutes. During boiling, keep the pot uncovered to prevent pressure from cracking the eggshells.
• Step 4: Once the time is up, turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let it sit for 3 minutes. Afterward, remove the eggs, peel them, and enjoy soft-boiled eggs with shells that are easy to peel.

Using vinegar when boiling eggs softens the eggshell, making it easier to peel without compromising the appearance of the egg.

9. Pressure Cooker Soft-Boiled Eggs

The pressure cooker is an indispensable tool in the modern kitchen and is also great for boiling soft-boiled eggs. Here's how you can do it:

• Step 1: First, pour about 1 liter of water into the pressure cooker. Then, place a rack inside to prevent the eggs from directly touching the bottom of the pot, preventing cracking due to high heat.
• Step 2: Place the eggs into the pressure cooker, then close the lid. Make sure the lid is tightly sealed to maintain stable pressure inside the cooker.
• Step 3: Next, time the boiling process for about 3 minutes. The time may vary depending on the desired yolk consistency. 3 minutes will result in a soft and delicious soft-boiled egg yolk.
• Step 4: Finally, after the boiling time is up, open the cooker and remove the eggs, placing them in a bowl of ice water. The ice water helps rapidly reduce the egg temperature, making it easier to peel and preserving the egg's shape.

With a pressure cooker, boiling eggs is not only quick but also allows precise control over the yolk's desired consistency.

10. Soft-Boiled Eggs with Hot Steaming Method

The hot steaming method is a smart cooking technique that saves you time and energy when boiling eggs. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:

• Step 1: First, wash the eggs with water, then place them in a pot and pour water until the eggs are fully submerged.
• Step 2: Next, turn on high heat and boil until the water is vigorously bubbling. For this process, you should boil for about 4 minutes.
• Step 3: During boiling, stir the eggs regularly, swirling them into a round shape to ensure the yolk is centered within the egg white. This helps achieve an evenly cooked and delicious soft-boiled egg.
• Step 4: After boiling, remove the eggs and immerse them in a bowl of cold water for about 3 minutes. This helps rapidly reduce the temperature, making peeling the eggs easier.

The hot steaming method for soft-boiled eggs not only ensures a perfectly cooked and tender yolk but also saves you time and energy.

11. Soft-Boiling Eggs with Whirlpool Technique

If you want to achieve perfectly soft-boiled eggs with swirling hot water, you'll need a bit of finesse. To poach eggs in boiling water, yielding intact soft-boiled eggs without cracks or sticking to the pot, try using the whirlpool technique.

Preparation: Crack the eggs into a small bowl for added safety instead of directly into the boiling water.

• Step 1: Bring a pot of water to a boil with a pinch of salt, a splash of vinegar, and a teaspoon of cooking oil.
• Step 2: Use a fork to create a whirlpool effect in the boiling water. Simultaneously, gently pour the egg into the center of the whirlpool. The egg will follow the flow of the whirlpool, preventing it from settling at the bottom of the pot or sticking to the sides.
• Step 3: After 1 minute, when the egg whites begin to set and become more opaque, increase the heat and simmer for an additional minute before removing the egg.

A quick and delicious dish, poached eggs with runny yolks ensure a visually appealing presentation without the worry of peeling mishaps. After completing one egg, simply scoop it out and repeat the steps to make additional perfectly poached eggs.

Knowing how to poach eggs not only elevates your culinary skills but also provides health benefits due to the abundant nutrients found in eggs. Poached eggs have a unique flavor, a tender texture, and are suitable for a variety of dishes, from simple to complex.

Pro Tip: Choosing Fresh and High-Quality Eggs

For delicious poached eggs, in addition to trying various egg boiling techniques, it's crucial to select fresh and high-quality eggs. Mytour provides you with some tips for choosing the best eggs:

• For industrial eggs, opt for those with a consistently vibrant orange color without any brown spots.
• Fresh eggs have a slightly rough and grainy texture when touched, with a white powdery surface. When held against the light, the two egg whites and the yolk are clearly visible.
• You can also shake the egg near your ear to distinguish freshness. No sound indicates freshness, while a louder sound suggests an older egg that should be avoided.
• When placed in water, fresh eggs will sink to the bottom and lie horizontally, while older eggs will float upright or at a slight angle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the ideal temperature for boiling poached eggs?

With the various boiling techniques, you can take control of your kitchen and create delicious, creamy poached eggs. The recommended temperature for boiling poached eggs is typically around 100 degrees Celsius, based on the boiling point of water.

How long should poached eggs be boiled?

During the boiling process, the condition of the eggs evolves over time. Between the 5th and 8th minutes, the eggs will develop a poached center. Depending on your taste preferences, you can adjust the boiling time accordingly.

How long to boil duck eggs for a runny yolk?

For duck eggs, you should boil them in boiling water for about 6 – 8 minutes to achieve a poached center. Additionally, you can explore various poaching techniques as Mytour has guided to create a flavorful, nutritious, and creamy dish.

Besides, don't hesitate to unleash your creativity and experiment with new poaching methods. You might discover a completely unique approach, bringing exciting culinary experiences to your family meals. Try poaching eggs in your own way and savor the delightful texture and taste of a perfectly cooked runny yolk. Keep following Mytour for more useful and innovative recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions