How to Cook Fried Egg Perfectly
Fried eggs are a simple yet delicious dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, mastering the art of cooking a perfect fried egg is essential. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to achieve that golden, runny yolk and perfectly cooked white, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.
1. Gather the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather all the necessary ingredients. You will need fresh eggs, a non-stick skillet or a regular skillet with a heavy bottom, butter or oil, salt, and pepper. Fresh eggs are crucial for achieving the best results, as older eggs tend to have a thicker yolk and may not cook as desired.
2. Preheat the Skillet
Place your skillet on the stove and preheat it over medium heat. If you’re using butter, wait until it starts to melt and coats the bottom of the skillet. If you’re using oil, wait until it shimmers and starts to smoke slightly. This preheating process will ensure that the egg cooks evenly and quickly.
3. Crack the Egg
Crack the egg into a small bowl or onto a plate. This will help you to remove any shell fragments and ensure a clean egg for cooking. Gently tap the eggshell against the side of the bowl or plate to crack it open.
4. Pour the Egg into the Skillet
Pour the egg into the preheated skillet. If you’re using butter, let it melt and coat the skillet before adding the egg. If you’re using oil, pour it into the skillet and swirl it around to cover the bottom.
5. Cook the Egg
Let the egg sit undisturbed for a few seconds to allow the white to set. Once the white starts to set, gently lift the edges of the egg with a spatula to allow the uncooked white to flow under. Cook for another minute or two, depending on how runny you like your yolk. For a runny yolk, the white should be set but still slightly undercooked.
6. Season the Egg
Season the cooked egg with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings such as paprika, garlic powder, or nutritional yeast for extra flavor.
7. Plate the Egg
Use a spatula to carefully flip the egg, if desired. This will cook the other side of the white. Cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on your preference. Once the egg is cooked to your liking, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your perfectly cooked fried egg with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, cheese, or hot sauce. Enjoy your delicious breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
Cooking a perfect fried egg may seem daunting at first, but with practice, you’ll be able to create a consistently delicious dish. Remember to use fresh eggs, preheat your skillet, and let the egg cook undisturbed for the best results. Happy cooking!
