Who doesn’t love a perfectly cooked poached egg for breakfast? It’s a culinary delight, but the traditional stovetop method can be a bit finicky. Overcooked yolks, runny whites, and a pan full of vinegar are just a few of the potential pitfalls. But fret no more! There’s a much easier and faster way to achieve poached egg perfection: the microwave.
Chef Joel Mielle, a seasoned French chef and owner of the popular food blog Recipe 30, swears by this method. “I can poach two eggs using this method faster than the bread takes to toast,” he says. “Because it cooks using the microwaves plus the heated water, there’s a two-way cooking process. So it’s fast!”
While it might sound unconventional, the microwave delivers a consistently even heat source, ensuring a perfectly shaped poached egg with no messy whites or overcooked yolks. Here’s what you need to know:
Ingredients:
* 1 egg (room temperature)
* ½ cup of room-temperature water
* Salt
* Mug or bowl
* Paper towel
* Bread or muffin (optional)
* Chives (optional)
* 1 teaspoon of butter (optional)
Tips for Success:
*
Fresh Eggs:
Use the freshest eggs possible for the best results. Older eggs may take longer to cook and may yield inconsistent results.*
Room Temperature Eggs:
Room temperature eggs cook more evenly. Take the eggs out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking if you have time.Instructions:
1.
Fill and Salt:
Fill a mug or bowl halfway with water from the tap. Sprinkle a pinch of salt into the water.2.
Crack and Poke:
Gently crack an egg into the container. Use a fork to poke a small hole in the yolk. This helps to prevent the yolk from exploding in the microwave.3.
Microwave:
Place the container in the microwave and cook for approximately 60 seconds. Microwave wattage varies, so you may need to adjust the cooking time. Start with 45 seconds and increase in 10-second intervals as needed.4.
Remove and Drain:
Once cooked, carefully remove the container from the microwave. Use a tablespoon to scoop the egg out of the cup and place it on a paper towel to drain excess water.Serving Suggestions:
Chef Joel recommends enjoying your microwave poached egg on a piece of toast or a toasted muffin. Simply butter the bread or muffin and add your poached egg. Garnish with chives for a touch of freshness.
Chef Joel’s Advice:
“Enjoy perfect poached eggs! Take notes of the timing and settings so you have perfect eggs each time. Happy breakfast!”
With this simple and efficient method, you can say goodbye to the hassle of stovetop poaching and embrace the convenience of the microwave. It’s a game-changer for anyone who wants a delicious and effortlessly prepared breakfast.
