To cook an egg in a pan, melt butter or heat oil, crack the egg into the pan, cook until the white is set, then flip and cook until the yolk reaches your desired consistency. Here’s a more detailed guide:
Steps for Cooking an Egg in a Pan:
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Prepare the Pan:
- Place a small, non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add about a teaspoon of butter or oil to the pan. Let it melt or heat up until it shimmers. This prevents the egg from sticking.
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Crack the Egg:
- Gently crack the egg on a flat surface (like a countertop) rather than on the edge of the pan to minimize shell fragments.
- Carefully crack the egg into the preheated pan.
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Cook the Egg (Sunny-Side Up or Over Easy):
- Sunny-Side Up: Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the egg white is set but the yolk is still runny. You may want to cover the pan for the last minute to help the white cook more evenly without overcooking the yolk.
- Over Easy: Cook for 2-3 minutes until the egg white is set. Then, gently flip the egg using a spatula and cook for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring the yolk remains runny. Be careful not to break the yolk when flipping.
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Cook the Egg (Over Medium or Over Hard):
- Over Medium: Follow the "Over Easy" steps but cook for a slightly longer time after flipping (2-3 minutes), so the yolk is partially set but still a bit soft.
- Over Hard: Follow the "Over Easy" steps, but cook for a longer time after flipping (3-4 minutes), ensuring the yolk is fully cooked and firm. You can also gently poke the yolk with the spatula to break it and ensure even cooking.
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Season and Serve:
- Once the egg is cooked to your preference, remove it from the pan using a spatula.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Eggs:
- Fresh Eggs: Use the freshest eggs possible for the best flavor and texture.
- Low to Medium Heat: Avoid high heat, which can cause the egg to cook too quickly and become rubbery.
- Non-Stick Pan: A good quality non-stick pan is essential to prevent the egg from sticking and breaking.
- Patience: Don't rush the cooking process. Let the egg cook gently to ensure even cooking and a tender texture.
