Hard Boiled Eggs
A fundamental technique in Indian kitchens, perfect hard-boiled eggs are the star of dishes like Egg Curry and Biryani, or enjoyed simply with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This foolproof method yields firm, bright yellow yolks and tender whites every time, making it a versatile protein source for any meal.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 12 minutes total.
- 1
Place eggs in a single layer in a medium saucepan
- a.Add enough cold water to cover the eggs by at least 1 inch. Stir in the salt, which can help prevent the egg whites from leaking out if a shell cracks during cooking.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Place the saucepan on the stove over high heat and bring the water to a full, rolling boil. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
As soon as the water reaches a rolling boil, turn off the heat completely
- a.Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and let the eggs stand in the hot water for 10-12 minutes. For a slightly softer, jammy yolk, reduce the time to 9 minutes.
- 4
Step 4
- a.While the eggs are resting, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with cold water and ice cubes.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Using a slotted spoon, carefully transfer the cooked eggs from the hot water directly into the ice bath. Let them cool for at least 5-10 minutes. This step is crucial as it stops the cooking process and makes the eggs easier to peel.
- 6
Step 6
- a.To peel, gently tap an egg on a hard surface and roll it between your hands to crack the shell all over. Start peeling from the wider end of the egg. Rinse under cool water to remove any small shell fragments. Serve as desired.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Older eggs (a week or two old) are often easier to peel as the membrane separates from the shell more easily.
- 2Starting with cold water helps the eggs cook more evenly and reduces the risk of shells cracking.
- 3The ice bath is a critical step. It stops the cooking process instantly, preventing the dreaded green ring around the yolk, and makes peeling much easier.
- 4For use in Indian curries like Egg Masala, you can lightly score the peeled eggs with a knife before adding them to the gravy. This helps them absorb the flavors of the spices.
- 5Store unpeeled hard-boiled eggs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Adapt it for your goals.
Jammy Yolks
For a softer, jammy yolk perfect for toast or adding to noodle bowls, reduce the standing time in hot water to 6-7 minutes.
Masala Boiled EggsMasala Boiled Eggs
After peeling, slice the eggs in half and sprinkle with a mix of chaat masala, red chili powder, and black salt for a classic Indian street-food style snack.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Protein Source
Eggs provide high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and supporting muscle mass.
Rich in Nutrients
They are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, selenium, and choline, supporting everything from bone health to brain function.
Promotes Satiety
The high protein content in hard-boiled eggs helps you feel full and satisfied, which can aid in weight management by reducing overall calorie intake.
Frequently asked questions
A single large hard-boiled egg contains approximately 75-80 calories, making it a low-calorie, nutrient-dense food.