How To Make Poached Eggs (2024)

What beats tucking into rich and gloriously golden yolks bursting onto hot buttered toast?

Discover how to make perfectly poached eggs with our step by step guide, and get inspiration from our easy poached egg recipes. Poaching results in a more delicately cooked egg and is the perfect anytime meal.

What beats tucking into rich and gloriously golden yolks bursting onto hot buttered toast?

Discover how to make perfectly poached eggs with our step by step guide, and gain inspiration with our easy poached egg recipes. Poaching results in a more delicately cooked egg and is the perfect anytime meal.

What beats tucking into rich and gloriously golden yolks bursting onto hot buttered toast?

How to make poached eggs

Poaching eggs is the ultimate low-calorie method and not as fussy as you may think. There’s no need for an egg poaching pan, vinegar or even whisking up a fancy whirlpool of simmering water like you might see some chefs do.

Step 1

Pour boiling water into a shallow pan or frying pan, to a depth of about 3cm. Bring back to the boil then reduce to a simmer.

Step 2

Crack each egg into a
cup, then gently tip
into the water.
Cook no more than 2 or 3 eggs
at a time.

Step 3

Using medium eggs, simmer for:

2 minutes - soft
3 minutes - hard

Step 4

Carefully remove the poached egg with a slotted spoon and serve immediately.

Poached egg recipes

Delicious served with fishcakes or smoked haddock, or simply on their own, poached eggs done right are a joy to behold. From the star in hearty Shakshuka to a welcome partner in salads and even soups, check out our collection of poached egg recipes.