How to poach eggs easily (2024)

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Three easy ways to poach eggs! Learn how to poach eggs using the whirlpool method, in a frypan and in the oven and how much time it takes to perfectly poach eggs.Plus get more tips about how to poach eggs without vinegar and lots of recipes with poached eggs.

How to poach eggs easily (5)In partnership with and featuring recipes from Australian Eggs.
How to poach eggs easily (7)

Vegetable Fritters with Poached Egg

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How to cookpoached eggs easily

Eggs are delicious and packed full of essential nutrients,making them a fantastic addition to any meal.But are you struggling to get cafe-worthy perfectlypoached eggs?Here are the best tips for poaching eggs easily.

We have three of the easiest techniques:the whirlpool method, the frypan method, and theoven method forperfectly runny yolks and tender whites every time.

The best type of egg to poach

Set yourself up for success with the right eggs. What type of egg is good for poaching?

Fresh:The freshest eggs areeasier to poach because theyhold together better. When eggs get older, the whites thin out. This can lead tofeathery, wispy whites, and a flat egg that doesn't have that roundshape. But if you need a poached egg right now and don’t have any fresh eggs, tryout the oven method in the video below!

Cold eggs: Using eggs straight from the fridge will help them hold together better.

How to to poach an egg

Crack eggs into a small bowl first.This way you have better control when you transfer the eggs into the poaching water. Gently tip the eggs from the bowl into the water.

Bring the water to a simmer.Avoid puttingthe eggs into water at a rolling boil, or they will be broken up by the movement of the water. A gentle simmer with a few small bubbles is ideal. Check out the video below to see how the water should look.

Do you need to add vinegar to poach eggs?Adding a splashof vinegar to the water sets the whites faster, so you have fewerwispybits. However, if you follow the other tipsthis extra step usually isn't necessary.

Avoid stirring immediately.Don’t be tempted to move the egg around too soon after you put it in the water.This can break up the whites before they’re set.

How long do poached eggs take to cook?A perfectly poached egg takes three to four minutes to cook. Look for firm, opaque whites with a jiggly yolk. The video below shows what a poached egg should look like just out of the water.

Use a slotted spoon.It’s much easier to scoop out the slippery egg with a slotted spoon, and it lets any excess water drip away. Have it at the ready so you’re not rushing to find one when your eggs are cooked.

Watch the videos below to see how all these tips come into practise! There are three different techniques so you're sure to find one that works for you, then you can try out your skills using one of the recipes below.

Poach eggs with the whirlpool method

Save this technique:Perfectly poached eggs

How to poach more eggs in a frypan

How to poach eggs in the oven

More ways to cook eggs

Now you're an eggs-pert at poaching eggs!Have you perfected the other techniques for cooking eggs?

  • How to make perfect scrambled eggs- basic scrambled eggs, creamy scrambled eggs and easy microwave scrambled eggs

  • Easy boiled eggs- how to getsoft, medium orhard boiled eggs

  • How to fry an egg- sunny side up or over easy, learn both techniques here

  • How to make an omelette- basic or filled omelettes for any occasion

DISCLAIMER: Australian Eggs is a contributing recipe partner at myfoodbook.com.au. This feature includes a mix of content sourced from Australian Eggs and our own opinions. Find out more about Australian Eggs and their range of products here.

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How to poach eggs easily (2024)

FAQs

How to perfectly poach an egg every time? ›

Then carefully slide the egg into the water making sure the heat is low enough not to throw the egg around - there should only be small bubbles rising. Cook for 3-4 mins, until the white is cooked through. Remove gently using a slotted spoon and blot any water from the base on a tea towel or kitchen paper.

What are three tricks to making the best poached egg? ›

9 Tips for the Perfect Poached Egg At Home
  1. Start with fresh eggs. The fresher the eggs, the better! ...
  2. Wait a sec: Give the water a moment to stop boiling. ...
  3. Use vinegar. ...
  4. Use a small bowl. ...
  5. Swirl the water. ...
  6. Don't crowd the pot! ...
  7. Avoid cooking the egg for longer than 3 minutes. ...
  8. Try a soup ladle.

Do I need vinegar to poach an egg? ›

The salt helps season the eggs, and the vinegar helps the egg whites stay together while they poach. The vinegar is optional, but I use it when I poach eggs. (We only use 1 tablespoon, which isn't enough to flavor the eggs.)

Do you poach eggs in boiling or simmering water? ›

The poaching water should just barely simmer; rapid boiling will cause the eggs to break up as they cook. Poached eggs can be made ahead of time and held for up to two days. Undercook them slightly so the yolks remain runny when reheated. Refrigerate in enough water to cover the eggs.

Is it better to poach or boil eggs? ›

A poached egg is cooked without the shell. Poaching is a more delicate method of cooking eggs compared to Boiled Eggs since they are cooked in water that is hot but not boiling. There is no need for extra oil or butter when poaching which makes this a lower-calorie method for preparing eggs.

Can you poach an egg in a microwave? ›

Cook: 1 mins

Microwaved poached eggs are quick and easy to make and ready in under two minutes, providing the perfect quick and easy lunch or dinner recipe for people in a hurry.

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