For Flawless Fried Eggs, Begin With a Chilly Pan

Is there something a fried egg can’t do? In my world, the reply is not any. Need to put a savory spin on a Dutch baby? Add a fried egg. Want extra protein in your rice bowl? A fried egg is simply the factor. From kimchi fried rice to garlicky smashed chickpeas, fried eggs can take even essentially the most humble dishes to greatness. The one factor is—nailing the right fried egg might be more durable than it appears. 

For years I used the identical method as most individuals: Get a pan sizzling, add a pat of butter, crack within the egg, and let cook dinner till the white is opaque and the yolk is simply set. The outcome was at all times nice, like when somebody asks you ways your day goes and what you truly wish to say is: not nice. Typically the white cooked inconsistently, a little bit too unfastened on high and a bit too rubbery across the edges. Generally the yolk was too agency; different occasions it was too runny.

Then a couple of years in the past, I used to be making breakfast in pursuit of an Instagram-worthy picture (embarrassing, I do know), when my mother stopped me. She informed me a buddy had simply taught her a straightforward hack to get picture-perfect fried eggs each time. 

Her methodology goes like this: Set a small nonstick skillet on the range and add a beneficiant glug (determine 2 Tbsp.) of oil, then crack the egg proper on high. Solely after the egg is within the pan do you flip up the warmth to medium-low. Because the pan heats up, the egg cooks slowly, holding its form whereas the yolk stays intact. It’s that easy—no rubbery eggs in sight. 

Simply skip the butter on this case. For the reason that pan begins off chilly, the butter gained’t soften in time to create a barrier between the egg and the pan, and also you’ll get caught with a multitude. As a substitute, go on your selection of oil. I’m a die-hard fan of olive-oil-fried eggs, however you may as well use a impartial oil like grapeseed or vegetable, and even chili oil. In the event you’re following in my footsteps, select full-flavored olive oil—you’ll actually style the distinction right here. Because the egg whites begin to flip opaque, gently tilt the pan and use a spoon to baste the egg with the new oil for crispy edges. 

Seems Mother actually is at all times proper.