There's something undeniably satisfying about fried eggs. That golden, runny yolk enclosed in a crispy, delicate white tempts us every time we look at it. But mastering the art of cooking the perfect fried egg can be a challenge. Sometimes, the yolk breaks and runs all over the pan, and if we manage to keep it intact, there are chances of overcooking it and missing out on its runny goodness. Relatable? Then you should know our tried and tested hacks to achieving fried egg perfection every time. So grab your eggs and pan and enjoy fried eggs just the way you want them.
Also Read: Want To Make The Perfect Scrambled Eggs? Keep These Tips In Mind
What Is The Best Way To Fry An Egg? Here Are 7 Tips To Make Perfect Fried Eggs:
1. Always Use Quality Eggs:
The foundation of any dish lies in the ingredients. Opt for fresh, high-quality eggs from a trusted source. The fresher the egg, the tighter the white, making it less likely to spread out excessively in the pan. If your eggs were stored in the fridge, let them come down to room temperature before frying them. Frying a cold egg will overcook the yolk while you wait for the white to set.
2. Choose the Right Pan:
A non-stick pan is the best option here, as it prevents the egg from sticking and ensures a clean release. Cast iron and stainless steel pans are also great options, provided they're well-seasoned or adequately greased.
3. Set The Right Heat:
Achieving the perfect fried egg requires finesse in heat control. Preheat your pan over medium heat - you want it hot enough to sizzle upon contact, but not so hot that it burns the egg before it's cooked through. You might see people frying on high heat or even low heat, but we opt for medium heat to cook the whites properly without messing with the yolk.
4. Fat Is Important:
Frying requires fat, so don't shy away from adding it adequately. A touch of fat is essential to achieve that delectable crispy edge. Opt for butter, olive oil, or even bacon fat for an extra burst of flavour. Allow the fat to melt and coat the pan evenly before adding your egg.
5. Crack The Egg Carefully:
The way you crack an egg makes all the difference. You want the egg to drop in the pan without breaking the yolk and spreading the white. Crack it gently on a flat surface, like your kitchen countertop, to prevent any shell fragments from entering the pan. Hold the egg closer to the pan's surface to avoid a high drop, which could disperse the white too widely.
Also Read: 11 Best Egg Recipes | Easy Anda Recipes | Popular Egg Recipes
One must always crack the eggs carefully onto the pan.
Photo Credit: iStock
6. To Flip or Not to Flip:
The eternal question - should you flip your fried egg? It depends on your preference. For a sunny-side-up egg with a tender white and liquid yolk, simply cover the pan for a minute to gently cook the top. If you crave a more set yolk, carefully flip the egg using a spatula and don't let it cook for too long. In just 30 seconds, you'll get a cooked and slightly runny yolk.
7. Season It As Per Your Choice:
Don't forget the seasoning! A pinch of salt and a crack of black pepper enhance the natural flavours of the egg. For an extra layer of indulgence, experiment with herbs, cheese, or even a sprinkle of red chili flakes. Once cooked, you can even add a layer of toppings with sautéed veggies, avocado slices, or even a dollop of sauce.
Like any skill, practice is key to mastering the art of frying eggs. Don't be discouraged by a few mishaps along the way. With time, your fried eggs will be just perfect!
About Neha GroverLove for reading roused her writing instincts. Neha is guilty of having a deep-set fixation with anything caffeinated. When she is not pouring out her nest of thoughts onto the screen, you can see her reading while sipping on coffee.