You should poke a small hole at the widest end of the egg.
Why Poke a Hole in an Egg?
Poking a hole in an egg before cooking serves a specific purpose: it helps prevent the shell from cracking during boiling and allows air to escape, resulting in a smoother, more evenly shaped hard-boiled egg.
How to Poke the Hole
Here's how to properly poke a hole in an egg:
- Tools: You can use a pin, a needle, or a specialized egg pricker. A paring knife can be used carefully.
- Location: Gently poke the egg at the widest end. This is where the air cell is located.
- Technique:
- If using a pin or needle, gently pierce the shell.
- If using a paring knife, gently poke the shell with the tip and twist the knife.
- Depth: You only need to pierce the shell, not the membrane underneath.
Benefits of Poking a Hole
- Prevents Cracking: The hole allows air to escape, preventing pressure buildup that can cause the eggshell to crack.
- Easier Peeling: Some people find that eggs with a small hole are easier to peel after cooking.
- Improved Shape: Allows air to escape as the egg cooks, resulting in a more uniform and round shape.
Poking a small hole in the wide end of the egg before cooking helps to prevent cracking and improve the final result.
