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Course: Breakfast
Keyword: Eggs, Hacks, Healthy, Snacks

Hard Not-Boiled Eggs

Hard not-boiled egg halves sprinkled with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
ACTIVE TIME: 20 minutes
TOTAL TIME: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Like the name implies, these eggs are not technically boiled. I've been steaming eggs since '09, a method that makes them easier to peel than any other application I've yet tried.
Steam is my choice because although it’s hot, it’s physically less violent than boiling water, ergo less likely to cause cracks. And steam is more reliable because unlike water, which drops in temperature when the eggs go in, steam is pretty much a constant at standard pressure.
Also, we want those yolks nice and centered, and the best way to do that is to store them on their sides. Just secure the egg carton with several rubber bands and place on its side in the refrigerator for at least 5 days.
This recipe first appeared in Season 2 of Good Eats: Reloaded.
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Software

  • 6 large eggs, preferably stored on their sides

Specialized Hardware

Steamer basket
Hard not-boiled egg halves sprinkled with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
ACTIVE TIME: 20 minutes
TOTAL TIME: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Procedure

  • Add an inch of water to a 3-to 4-quart saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Fill a large bowl with room temperature water and have it standing by near the cooktop.
  • When the water reaches a boil, retrieve eggs from the refrigerator and place in a folding steamer basket. Carefully lower into the pot, cover, and steam for exactly 11 minutes for a set egg that still has a slightly creamy yolk. If you’re looking for something harder, go for 12 to 13 minutes.
  • Carefully remove the steamer basket and transfer the eggs to the bowl of water. Allow them to cool down just enough to handle comfortably, 30 seconds to 2 minutes max. Carefully crack the shell by tapping on a flat surface and peel under the water, being careful to remove both the shell and the membrane just underneath.
  • Pat dry and consume whole while still warm. If you’re planning to split in half for say, deviled eggs, cool thoroughly before slicing.
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