How to Know When Boiled Eggs Are Done: Examining Color, Texture & Movement

Introduction

Boiled eggs are a popular breakfast item and an easy snack to make. A boiled egg is usually made by submerging an egg in boiling water for several minutes until it is cooked through. Knowing when boiled eggs are done can be tricky, but there are some simple ways to tell if your eggs are cooked.

Observe the Shell: Examining the Color of the Eggshell

The most obvious way to tell if a boiled egg is done is to examine the shell. As the egg cooks, the proteins in the egg whites and yolks coagulate, changing the color of the shell. The eggshell should have a solid, even color with no streaks or blotches. If the shell is still white, it means that the egg is not done yet. If the shell has become a pale yellow color, then it is likely done.

Eggshells should also have a slightly firm texture. If the shell feels soft or rubbery, it means that the egg is not fully cooked. On the other hand, if the shell feels hard and tough, then it is likely overcooked.

Use a Timer: Setting Time for Hard-Boiled Eggs

Timing is an important factor when boiling eggs. If the eggs are boiled for too long, they will become tough and rubbery. If they are boiled for too little time, they will be undercooked. It is best to use a timer when boiling eggs so that you can ensure that they are cooked perfectly.

For hard-boiled eggs, a good rule of thumb is to boil them for 8 to 10 minutes. For softer-boiled eggs, reduce the time to 6 to 7 minutes. To prevent the eggs from cracking, add 1 teaspoon of salt or vinegar to the boiling water before adding the eggs.

Feel the Firmness: Testing the Egg’s Texture

Another way to tell if boiled eggs are done is to feel the texture of the egg. To do this, take the egg out of the boiling water and gently press it with your finger. If the egg feels hard and firm, then it is done. If it feels soft and squishy, then it is not done yet.

It is important to be careful when handling hot eggs. Use a spoon or tongs to remove the egg from the boiling water and place it on a plate or cutting board. Wait a few minutes for the egg to cool before testing the texture.

Shake it Up: Gauging the Movement of the Yolk

A third way to tell if boiled eggs are done is to shake the egg. This method works best for hard-boiled eggs. Take the egg out of the boiling water and wait a few minutes for it to cool. Hold the egg in one hand and give it a gentle shake. If the yolk moves freely inside the egg, then it is done. If the yolk is still stuck to the shell, then the egg is not done yet.

Try the Float Test: Seeing if the Egg Sinks or Floats

The final way to tell if boiled eggs are done is to try the float test. Fill a bowl with cold water and carefully lower the egg into the water. If the egg sinks to the bottom, then it is done. If the egg floats to the surface, then it is not done yet.

This test works best for hard-boiled eggs. If the egg is undercooked, the air pocket inside the egg will cause it to float. If the egg is overcooked, the proteins in the egg will cause it to sink.

Conclusion

Knowing when boiled eggs are done can be tricky, but there are some simple techniques that can help. By examining the color of the eggshell, setting a timer, feeling the egg’s texture, shaking it up and trying the float test, you can tell if your eggs are cooked perfectly every time. With practice, these techniques will soon become second nature.