How Scientists Say to Cook the Perfect Egg
The Quest for the Perfect Boiled Egg
Scientists have finally cracked the code for boiling the perfect egg. Achieving a velvety yolk paired with a soft, solid white has been a challenge for many, but researchers have used math to tackle this runny conundrum.
The Science Behind the Perfect Egg
The yolk cooks at a lower temperature than the white, making it difficult to achieve the perfect balance. Hard boiling an egg can yield a chalky yolk, while cooking low and slow can produce jelly-like, undercooked whites. To overcome this, researchers cooked hundreds of eggs and used math to model how heat travels between a hot surface and an egg, as well as how the egg’s contents morph from liquid to solid with a gel-like state in between.
The Periodic Cooking Method
The researchers’ final recipe involves transferring eggs in a steamer basket every two minutes between two bowls of water — one boiling and the other lukewarm at 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius) — for a total of 32 minutes before cooling under running water and peeling. This method, dubbed periodic cooking, heats and cools the egg whites until fully set, while keeping the yolk at a constant temperature and cooking it until creamy.
The Results
To confirm they had cooked up something new, the researchers tested the chemical makeup of the prepared eggs and served them to a panel of eight tasters alongside traditional boiled eggs. The results were impressive, with the periodic cooking method producing eggs with a unique blend of textures on the tongue.
What It Means for Home Cooks
While the periodic cooking method may require more time in the kitchen compared to a standard hard-boiled egg, food scientist Joanne Slavin from the University of Minnesota believes the extra effort is worth it. “This is a slower process to get a better outcome,” she said.
Conclusion
The researchers’ periodic cooking method has the potential to revolutionize the way we cook eggs. With its unique blend of textures and flavors, this method is sure to delight even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this method is definitely worth trying out.
FAQs
Q: How long does the periodic cooking method take?
A: The method requires 32 minutes of cooking time, followed by cooling under running water and peeling.
Q: Can I use this method for large quantities of eggs?
A: Yes, the method can be easily scaled up for large quantities of eggs. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Is this method more expensive than traditional cooking methods?
A: No, the periodic cooking method is no more expensive than traditional cooking methods. The only additional cost is the time required to cook the eggs.
Q: Can I use this method for other types of eggs, such as quail or duck eggs?
A: Yes, the periodic cooking method can be used for other types of eggs, including quail and duck eggs. Simply adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed.
