Follow simple steps to get firm, easy-to-peel hard-boiled eggs every time.
1 Answer
To boil eggs for easy peeling, start with older eggs, place them in a pot, cover with cold water, bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let sit covered for 10-12 minutes before shocking in ice water.
Detailed Explanation:
Achieving perfectly hard-boiled eggs that peel effortlessly involves a few key steps. First, use eggs that are at least a week old, as the air pocket inside enlarges over time, making them easier to peel. Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover them completely with cold water – about an inch above the eggs. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, immediately remove the pot from the heat, cover it with a lid, and let the eggs sit in the hot water for 10-12 minutes, depending on the desired doneness. For a slightly softer yolk, go for 10 minutes; for a fully firm yolk, use 12 minutes. After the allotted time, immediately transfer the eggs to a bowl filled with ice water. This 'ice bath' stops the cooking process and further aids in separating the egg from the shell. Let the eggs cool completely in the ice water before peeling. To peel, gently tap the egg all over to create cracks in the shell, then peel under cool running water.
Pro Tip:
Adding a teaspoon of vinegar or baking soda to the water while boiling can also help loosen the shell from the egg white, making peeling even easier. However, this isn't always necessary if you follow the other steps correctly.