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Follow this guide for how to achieve perfectly boiled eggs, then also check out our scrambled eggs, eggs benedict, Scotch eggs and more egg recipes, plus watch our video on how to peel a hard boiled egg.

Tips for the perfect boiled eggs:

How long to boil an egg

The exact boiled egg time will depend on the consistency you are hoping to achieve. Whether you are after a soft, runny yolk, or a firmer egg to use in salads or as a sandwich filling, we suggest the following cooking times:

  • 4 minutes: set white and runny yolk – just right for dipping into
  • 5 minutes: liquid yolk – a little less oozy
  • 6-8 minutes: softly set and sticky
  • 10-11 minutes: classic hard-boiled egg

What temperature should the egg be at before boiling?

For best results, use eggs at room temperatures, rather than fridge cold. If the eggs are at room temperature, they are less likely to crack on reaching the boiling water rather due to the sharp temperature contrast.

  • 2 eggs
  • toasted to make soldiers (optional) bread
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    Method

    • step 1

      Put room temperature eggs in boiling water, bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook for 4 minutes for very soft, runny yolk, 5 for just-set white and creamy yolk, 6-7 for set white and just-set yolk, and 10 minutes for a hard boiled egg.

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