Step-by-Step Guide to Making Perfect Hard-Boiled Eggs

Hard-boiled eggs are a quick and easy snack that many people enjoy across Africa. They’re filling, nutritious, and can be eaten on their own or added to different dishes like salads or stews.

Whether you’re preparing them for breakfast, as a snack, or to include in a meal, knowing how to boil eggs perfectly will always come in handy.

In this guide, we’ll show you the simple steps to hard boil eggs, so they come out just right every time.

List of ingredients and tools

• Eggs
• Water
• A pot with a lid

Step-by-Step Guide to Hard Boiling Eggs

1. Place the Eggs in a Pot: Gently place the eggs in a pot. Make sure they’re in a single layer, not stacked on top of each other, to ensure even cooking.
2. Add Water: Pour enough water into the pot to cover the eggs by about an inch. The water should completely cover the eggs to ensure they cook properly.
3. Boil the Water: Put the pot on the stove and turn on the heat. Bring the water to a boil. Once the water starts bubbling, it’s ready for the next step.
4. Simmer the Eggs: After the water reaches a boil, lower the heat to a simmer. Let the eggs cook in the simmering water for about 10 to 12 minutes, depending on how firm you want the yolk to be.
5. Cool the Eggs: Once the eggs are done, carefully remove them from the pot and place them in a bowl of cold water or an ice bath. Let them cool for a few minutes. This stops the cooking process and makes the eggs easier to peel later.

How to Store Hard-Boiled Eggs

After you’ve boiled your eggs, you can store them to enjoy later. Here’s how:

• Refrigerate: Place the hard-boiled eggs in the fridge once they’ve cooled completely. You can store them in the shell or peel them first, depending on your preference. Either way, put them in an airtight container or a bowl covered with plastic wrap to keep them fresh.How Long They Last
• Hard-boiled eggs can last up to one week in the fridge if they’re kept in their shells. If you’ve already peeled them, try to eat them within 3 to 5 days for the best taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Eggs: Boiling eggs for too long can cause the yolk to develop a greenish-gray ring around it, which affects the taste and texture. Stick to 10-12 minutes to avoid overcooking.
2. Cracking the Eggs: If you add eggs straight into boiling water, they might crack from the sudden temperature change. To prevent this, start with cold water and heat it up gradually with the eggs in the pot.
3. Not Cooling the Eggs Properly: Skipping the cold water bath can make it harder to peel the eggs and may lead to overcooking. Always cool them down in cold water right after boiling.

Conclusion

Hard-boiled eggs are not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you eat them on their own, in a salad, or as part of a larger dish, they’re a quick and nutritious addition to any meal. With these simple steps, you’ll get perfectly cooked eggs every time. Enjoy your eggs however you like, and share your cooking tips with friends and family!