The Perfect Boiled Egg: Scientists Crack the Code
The Challenge of Cooking the Perfect Egg
Achieving the perfect boiled egg has long been a challenge for many. The yolk and white of the egg cook at different temperatures, making it difficult to achieve a velvety yolk paired with a soft, solid white. Hard boiling an egg can result in a chalky yolk, while cooking low and slow can produce jelly-like, undercooked whites.
The Solution: Periodic Cooking
Researchers have developed a new method called periodic cooking, which 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.
How it Works
The periodic cooking method involves heating and cooling the egg whites until fully set, while keeping the yolk at a constant temperature to cook until creamy. The result is a perfectly cooked egg with a velvety yolk and soft, solid white.
The Science Behind it
The researchers used math to tackle the runny conundrum, developing equations to capture how heat travels between a hot surface and an egg, and how the egg’s contents morph from liquid to solid with a gel-like state in between.
Testing the Method
To confirm the effectiveness of the method, 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 showed that the periodic cooking method produced eggs with a unique blend of textures that was preferred by the tasters.
Conclusion
The periodic cooking method is a slower process than traditional hard-boiling, but the end result is a perfectly cooked egg with a velvety yolk and soft, solid white. This method could be a game-changer for egg lovers who are tired of overcooked or undercooked eggs.
FAQs
Q: How long does the periodic cooking method take?
A: The method takes a total of 32 minutes, including the time spent transferring the eggs between the two bowls of water.
Q: Can I use this method with just one egg?
A: While the researchers tested the method with multiple eggs, it is possible to use it with just one egg. However, the results may vary.
Q: Is this method more expensive than traditional hard-boiling?
A: The cost of the method is similar to traditional hard-boiling, as it requires the same basic equipment and ingredients.
Q: Can I adjust the temperature of the water?
A: Yes, you can adjust the temperature of the water to suit your personal preference. However, the researchers recommend using a lukewarm water at 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius) for the best results.
