The cooking time for eggs depends on their size. Here's a breakdown for hard-cooked eggs using the "turn off the heat and let stand" method:
- Medium Eggs: 12 minutes
- Large Eggs: 15 minutes
- Extra-Large Eggs: 18 minutes
Detailed Explanation:
This method involves placing the eggs in a saucepan and covering them with cold water. Quickly bring the water to just boiling. Then, immediately turn off the heat, cover the pan, and let the eggs stand in the hot water for the times specified above. This gentler cooking method helps prevent rubbery whites and green yolks.
Factors Affecting Cooking Time:
- Egg Size: Larger eggs naturally require more time to cook through.
- Starting Temperature of Water: If you start with very cold water, it may take slightly longer to bring the water to a boil, which can affect the overall cooking time.
- Altitude: At higher altitudes, water boils at a lower temperature, so you might need to add a minute or two to the recommended cooking time.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Eggs:
- Use eggs that are a week or two old, as they peel more easily.
- Don't overcrowd the pan; use a pot large enough to hold the eggs in a single layer.
- After cooking, immediately transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking process and makes them easier to peel.
