Perfect Soft-Boiled Eggs: Œufs Mollets

Name: Perfect Soft-Boiled Eggs: Œufs Mollets
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 16 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 large eggs (room temperature); 1 L water (for boiling); ice cubes (for ice bath)

16 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Perfect Soft-Boiled Eggs: Œufs Mollets

Discover the art of making perfect soft-boiled eggs with creamy yolks and just-set whites—ideal for breakfast or a gourmet touch to any dish.

Prep

5 min

Cook

6 min

Total

16 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Œufs Mollets, or soft-boiled eggs, are a delightful way to enjoy eggs with a perfectly creamy yolk and tender whites. This French classic is versatile, ideal for enhancing salads, soups, or served simply with toast. The key to mastering œufs mollets is timing and precision. With just a few minutes of cooking, you can transform eggs into a gourmet addition to any meal. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this technique is one to perfect.

Ingredients

Servings

Main Ingredients

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients

Gather all ingredients and ensure eggs are at room temperature.

Pro tip: Room temperature eggs cook more evenly.

Boil Water

Bring 1 litre of water to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan over high heat.

Pro tip: Use a saucepan large enough to fit all the eggs comfortably.

Cook Eggs

Gently lower the eggs into the boiling water using a slotted spoon. Boil for exactly 6 minutes.

Pro tip: Start timing immediately after adding the eggs to the boiling water.

Prepare Ice Bath

While eggs are boiling, prepare a bowl of ice water.

Pro tip: An ice bath stops the cooking process instantly.

Shock Eggs

After 6 minutes, transfer eggs to the ice bath immediately and let them cool for 5 minutes.

Pro tip: This method ensures the yolks remain creamy.

Peel and Serve

Gently crack and peel the eggs under cold running water. Serve immediately.

Pro tip: Peeling under water helps remove stubborn shell bits.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use room temperature eggs for even cooking.</li><li>Adjust boiling time based on egg size for optimal yolks.</li><li>Plunge eggs into ice water immediately to halt cooking.</li><li>Peel eggs gently under running water to avoid breaking.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve the œufs mollets warm with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, or add them to a fresh salad for a touch of elegance. Pair them with a crisp white wine or a refreshing orange juice for breakfast. To store, keep peeled eggs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. They make for a quick, protein-packed snack or a last-minute addition to your favourite dishes.