Hard boiled eggs are a classic breakfast food loved by people of all ages. They are versatile and can be eaten on their own, scrambled, or used as an ingredient in a variety of dishes. But what makes an egg hard boiled? In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about hard boiled eggs, from how to cook them to their nutritional benefits.
What is a Hard Boiled Egg?
A hard boiled egg is an egg that has been cooked in its shell for a longer period than a soft boiled or poached egg. The egg yolk and white are fully cooked and solid, making the egg easy to peel. The exterior shell of the egg is also firmer after being boiled for an extended period of time.
How Do You Hard Boil an Egg?
If you want to cook a perfect hard boiled egg, follow these simple steps:
- Place your eggs in a large pot and add enough water to cover them by about one inch.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the eggs simmer for 9-12 minutes (depending on the size of the eggs).
- After the eggs have cooked, immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to cool down and stop the cooking process.
- Once the eggs are completely cooled, crack the shells and peel them under running water.
Hard boiled eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
The Nutritional Benefits of Hard Boiled Eggs
Hard boiled eggs are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that are beneficial for your health. One large hard boiled egg contains the following:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 70 |
| Protein | 6 grams |
| Fat | 5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 0 grams |
| Vitamin D | 6% of the daily value (DV) |
| Vitamin B12 | 9% of the DV |
| Vitamin A | 5% of the DV |
| Iron | 3% of the DV |
Hard boiled eggs are also a good source of choline, which is essential for brain health, and antioxidants, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
How Can You Use Hard Boiled Eggs?
Hard boiled eggs can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some popular ways to use hard boiled eggs:
- As a standalone breakfast item
- Sliced in a sandwich or salad
- Mashed and mixed with mayonnaise to make egg salad
- Sliced and served on top of avocado toast
- Chopped and added to fried rice or stir fry
The Difference Between Hard Boiled Eggs and Soft Boiled Eggs
The main difference between a hard boiled egg and a soft boiled egg is the cooking time. A soft boiled egg is cooked for a shorter period than a hard boiled egg, leaving the yolk runny and the white partially set. A soft boiled egg can be eaten on its own or used in a variety of dishes, such as ramen or bibimbap.
Summary
Hard boiled eggs are an easy and nutritious food that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals and can be used in a range of dishes from sandwiches to stir fry. So, next time you are looking for a quick and healthy breakfast option, consider cooking some hard boiled eggs!
Common Questions About Hard Boiled Eggs:
- What happens if you overcook a hard boiled egg?
- If you overcook a hard boiled egg, the yolk will become dry and crumbly and may take on a greenish-grey color.
- Are hard boiled eggs good for weight loss?
- Yes, hard boiled eggs are a good food to include in a weight loss diet because they are low in calories and high in protein, which can help you feel full for longer.
- Can you freeze hard boiled eggs?
- Yes, you can freeze hard boiled eggs, but they should be peeled first and stored in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn.
- How long can you keep hard boiled eggs in the refrigerator?
- Hard boiled eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Can you reheat hard boiled eggs?
- Yes, you can reheat hard boiled eggs by placing them in a bowl of hot water for a few minutes or by microwaving them for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
References:
For more information about cooking and consuming hard boiled eggs, check out these resources: