Master the art of perfect poached eggs with this foolproof technique that delivers beautifully tender whites and creamy yolks every time. Using just three simple ingredients—fresh eggs, white vinegar, and water—this recipe ensures your eggs stay intact and elegantly shaped. A gentle whirlpool method helps the egg whites wrap securely around the yolk, creating restaurant-quality results in just minutes. Whether you’re topping avocado toast, elevating a salad, or crafting a classic eggs Benedict, these poached eggs are a versatile and impressive addition to any meal. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, this quick and easy recipe will become your go-to guide for achieving poached egg perfection.
Crack each egg into a small bowl or ramekin to ensure yolks remain intact and to make transferring them to the water easier.
Fill a medium saucepan with 4 cups of water and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. The water should have bubbles forming on the bottom but should not boil.
Add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar to the simmering water. This helps the egg whites coagulate quickly and stay intact.
Using a spoon, create a gentle whirlpool in the simmering water by stirring in a circular motion.
Carefully slide the egg from the small bowl into the center of the whirlpool. Repeat with the second egg, ensuring they are kept apart in the pan.
Let the eggs cook for 3-4 minutes, depending on your preferred yolk consistency. Three minutes will result in slightly runny yolks, while four minutes will yield firmer but still creamy yolks.
Using a slotted spoon, gently lift each poached egg out of the water and place it on a paper towel to drain any excess water.
Trim any ragged edges of the whites, if desired, then serve immediately on toast, with salads, or as part of your favorite dish.
Calories |
139 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 9.6 g | 12% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.2 g | 16% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 372 mg | 124% | |
| Sodium | 153 mg | 7% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 1.2 g | 0% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.2 g | ||
| Protein | 12.6 g | 25% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.1 mcg | 10% | |
| Calcium | 115 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 1.8 mg | 10% | |
| Potassium | 149 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.