Boiling a dozen eggs seems like a pretty straightforward task, but how long should you boil them for? The answer is not as simple as it may seem. There are a few factors that can affect the timing, including the size of the eggs and how you like them cooked. Let’s dive into the details so you can get perfect boiled eggs every time.
Factors Affecting Boiling Time
Before we get into the specifics of boiling times, let’s first take a look at the factors that can affect the outcome. The following are some of the key factors when boiling eggs:
- Egg size: The size of your eggs can impact the boiling time. Large eggs will take longer to cook than smaller ones.
- Egg freshness: Fresh eggs will be harder to peel after boiling, so it’s recommended that you buy eggs at least a week before boiling them.
- Egg temperature: Starting with room temperature eggs, rather than cold from the fridge, can help ensure that they cook evenly.
- Altitude: If you live at a high altitude, the boiling temperature may be lower, which could affect the cooking time.
- Water temperature: Starting with cold water and gradually heating it up can help ensure that the eggs cook evenly, as the eggs will heat up gradually along with the water.
Boiling Times for Different Levels of Doneness
Now that we’ve looked at the factors that can affect boiling times, let’s get into some specific numbers. The following are some guidelines for boiling times based on the desired level of doneness:
Soft-Boiled Eggs
Soft-boiled eggs have a set white and a runny yolk. To achieve this doneness level, the following times are recommended:
| Egg Size | Boiling Time |
|---|---|
| Small | 3 minutes and 30 seconds |
| Medium | 4 minutes and 30 seconds |
| Large | 5 minutes and 30 seconds |
Medium-Boiled Eggs
Medium-boiled eggs have a yolk that’s mostly set, but still a bit creamy. For this doneness level, the following times are recommended:
| Egg Size | Boiling Time |
|---|---|
| Small | 4 minutes and 30 seconds |
| Medium | 5 minutes and 30 seconds |
| Large | 6 minutes and 30 seconds |
Hard-Boiled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs have a completely set yolk and white. Here are the recommended boiling times:
| Egg Size | Boiling Time |
|---|---|
| Small | 6 minutes |
| Medium | 7 minutes |
| Large | 8 minutes |
How to Boil a Dozen Eggs
If you’re boiling a dozen eggs or more, you’ll need a large pot, as well as a strainer or slotted spoon for removing the eggs from the water. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with room temperature eggs. This will help ensure that they cook evenly.
- Place the eggs in a single layer in a large pot.
- Add cold water to the pot so that the eggs are covered by at least an inch of water.
- Place the pot over high heat and bring the water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Start your timer based on the boiling time for the desired level of doneness.
- Once the timer goes off, use a strainer or slotted spoon to remove the eggs from the hot water and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
- Let the eggs sit in the ice water for at least 5 minutes, or until they’re completely cooled.
- Drain the eggs and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to eat or use them.
Tips for Peeling Hard-Boiled Eggs
Peeling hard-boiled eggs can be a frustrating experience, but there are a few tips that can help:
- Use older eggs: As we mentioned earlier, fresh eggs are harder to peel after boiling. If you’re planning on hard-boiling a dozen eggs, consider buying them a week or two in advance.
- Peel under running water: Running the eggs under cold water while you’re peeling them can help the shells come off more easily.
- Start at the bottom: Beginning at the wider end of the egg can help you get a good grip on the shell and make it easier to peel.
Conclusion
Boiling a dozen eggs is a quick and easy way to meal prep for the week, but it’s important to pay attention to the factors that can impact the boiling time. By taking into account egg size, freshness, temperature, altitude, and water temperature, and using the recommended boiling times for your desired level of doneness, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly boiled eggs every time. Happy boiling!
FAQ
Here are answers to some of the most common questions related to boiling a dozen eggs:
- How long does it take to boil a dozen eggs? The answer depends on the desired level of doneness and the size of the eggs. For soft-boiled eggs, it will take between 3 minutes and 30 seconds and 5 minutes and 30 seconds, depending on the egg size. For medium-boiled eggs, it will take between 4 minutes and 30 seconds and 6 minutes and 30 seconds. For hard-boiled eggs, it will take between 6 minutes and 8 minutes, again depending on the egg size.
- Why should you start with room temperature eggs? Starting with room temperature eggs can help ensure that they cook evenly.
- How do I know when the eggs are done? Using a timer is recommended, but you can also use the water test. Simply remove an egg from the pot with a slotted spoon and place it in a bowl of cold water. If the egg is cooked to your liking, it’s done.
- How do I store boiled eggs? Boiled eggs should be stored in the fridge until you’re ready to eat or use them. They can be stored in their shells, peeled, or sliced.
References
Here are some sources used in this article: