Foolproof Poached Eggs Recipe
Unraveling the mysteries of home cooking through science.
How to make easy poached eggs, no vinegar required.

[Photographs and video: J. Kenji Lopez-Alt]
An easy, 100% foolproof method for cooking perfectly poached eggs with tight, clean whites and golden, liquid yolks, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or topping salads. Check out the video for more details.
Why It Works
- Straining eggs in a fine mesh strainer removes excess wispy, loose whites, creating tight, perfectly-shaped eggs.
- Poaching at a 180°F sub-simmer means fewer disturbances in the water, and cleaner, more tender cooking.
Read more: Video: How to Poach Eggs, the Foolproof Method (Really!)
- Yield:Makes 4 poached eggs
- Active time: 10 minutes
- Total time:10 minutes
- Rated:
Ingredients
- 4 eggs
Directions
-
1.
Bring a medium pot of water to a simmer, then reduce heat until it is barely quivering. It should register 180 to 190°F on an instant-read thermometer. Carefully break 1 egg into a small bowl, then tip into a fine mesh strainer. Carefully swirl egg around strainer, using your finger to rub off any excess loose egg whites that drop through. Gently tip egg into water. Swirl gently with a wooden spoon for 10 seconds, just until egg begins to set. Repeat straining and tipping with remaining eggs. Cook, swirling occasionally, until egg whites are fully set but yolks are still soft, about 4 minutes.
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2.
Carefully lift eggs from pot with a slotted spoon. Serve immediately, or transfer to a bowl of cold water and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To serve, transfer to a bowl of hot water and let reheat for 2 minutes. Serve immediately.
This Recipe Appears In
Video: How to Poach Eggs, the Foolproof Method (Really!) The Food Lab: How to Poach Eggs for a PartyAll products linked here have been independently selected by our editors. We may earn a commission on purchases, as described in our affiliate policy.
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