Microwave magic: How to poach a perfect egg in under a minute
Poached eggs, often referred to as posh eggs, are a true delicacy for many cooking enthusiasts. Thanks to a clever trick by a chef, they can be prepared in the microwave in less than a minute.
Eggs are a reliable choice for breakfast – they can be fried, boiled, baked, or poached. For some, preparing a poached egg in a pot can be challenging, but a chef on TikTok has shared a simpler method that takes less than a minute.
Quick method for poached eggs
The traditional method involves dropping the egg into gently simmering water with added vinegar. It's important for the water to be acidified, which helps the protein set quickly. The optimal cooking time is 2-3 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a delicate, runny yolk.
Chef Erica Wides, known on TikTok as @chefsmartypants, showcased her technique for cooking poached eggs in the microwave. She explains that if you want to avoid boiling a pot of water daily, you can simply make a posh egg in the microwave — something she does every day.
Erica starts by placing the egg in a small glass bowl, emphasising that the container should be at least twice as deep as the height of the egg. She then covers the egg with water, ensuring it's submerged by about 1 inch to prevent it from exploding in the microwave.
The perfect egg in 44 seconds
While cooking the egg in the microwave, Erica notes that the time may vary depending on the appliance, but for her, 44 seconds is ideal for preparing a poached egg. She explains that perfect timing may require experimentation, mentioning that her previous microwave only needed 36 seconds.
Generally, an egg can be heated in the microwave for 35 to 50 seconds, but everyone needs to adjust the time to suit their appliance. Erica explains that the cooking time for eggs depends on personal preferences. She prefers a firm white and a runny yolk.
Experimenting with garnishes
Poached eggs can be served in many ways, making them a versatile addition to various dishes. The classic combination with toast and avocado is just the beginning. They can also be served with rocket and Parma ham, adding a sophisticated flavour to the dish. A poached egg is also a great addition to a salad with grilled chicken, enriching the meal with essential proteins and deliciousness.
