Regarding breakfast, few things can rival the simplicity and versatility of a perfectly cooked over easy egg. Whether you're in the mood for a classic bacon and eggs breakfast or want to add protein to your avocado toast, over-easy eggs are a great choice. But what exactly are over-easy eggs, and how do you make them? In this beginner's guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about this breakfast staple.
Table of contents
What Are Over Easy Eggs?
Over easy eggs is a classic breakfast dish that involves cooking eggs on both sides until the white is set and the yolk is still runny. You start by cracking an egg into a heated and greased pan to make eggs over easy. Once the white begins to set, flip the egg over and cook for 15-30 seconds or until the yolk is cooked to your desired level of runniness.The History of Over Easy Eggs
While over-easy eggs may seem like a simple and modern breakfast dish, their history actually dates back centuries. In fact, eggs have been a popular breakfast food since ancient times, with evidence of egg consumption dating back to the Roman Empire.
However, the concept of cooking an egg over easy specifically didn't become popular until the mid-20th century. The term "over easy" itself is believed to have originated in the United States in the 1930s.
The Benefits of Over Easy Eggs
Over-easy eggs are not only delicious, but they also offer a number of health benefits. Some of the benefits of eating eggs over easy include:
- High in protein: Eggs are a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
- Packed with nutrients: Eggs are rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, choline, and selenium.
- Low in calories: One large egg contains only about 70 calories, making it a great choice for those watching their weight.
- Versatile: Over-easy eggs can be eaten on their own or used in a variety of breakfast dishes, such as breakfast sandwiches, omelettes, and more.
How to Make Over Easy Eggs
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Heat the pan
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the butter and swirl it around until it melts and coats the bottom of the pan.
Step 2: Crack the eggs into the pan
Crack the eggs into the pan, being careful not to break the yolks. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Cook the eggs
Cook the eggs for 1-2 minutes, until the whites start to set. Once the whites are set, carefully flip the eggs over using a spatula.
Step 4: Finish cooking the eggs
Cook the eggs for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the whites are fully set but the yolks are still runny. If you prefer your yolks to be more cooked, leave them in the pan for an additional minute or so.
Step 5: Serve the eggs
Slide the eggs onto a plate and serve immediately.
Tips for Making Perfect Over Easy Eggs
Use a non-stick pan
A non-stick pan will help ensure that the eggs don't stick to the bottom and break when you flip them.
Don't overcrowd the pan
Cooking too many eggs in the pan at once can make it difficult to flip them without breaking the yolks. Stick to cooking no more than two eggs at a time.
Use low heat
Using low heat can help ensure that the eggs cook evenly without burning the bottoms or overcooking the yolks.
Don't rush it
Take your time when cooking the eggs to ensure that they are cooked to perfection.
Season the eggs
Season the eggs with salt and pepper to taste before cooking to give them extra flavor.
Recipe Ideas for Over Easy Eggs
If you're looking for some inspiration for how to use eggs over easy in your breakfast dishes, here are a few recipe ideas:- Over easy eggs on toast: Simply toast a slice of bread and top it with a perfectly cooked over-easy egg.
- Breakfast sandwich: Layer a cooked over easy egg, bacon, and cheese on a toasted English muffin or bagel.
- Avocado toast with over-easy egg: Mash up an avocado and spread it on a slice of toast, then top with a perfectly cooked over easy egg.
- eggs over easy and hash browns: Serve a perfectly cooked over easy egg alongside crispy hash browns for a classic breakfast dish.
- Breakfast burrito: Fill a tortilla with scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked vegetables, then top with a perfectly cooked over easy egg.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the difference between over easy and sunny-side-up eggs?
A: The main difference between over easy and sunny-side-up eggs is that over-easy eggs are flipped over and cooked briefly on the other side, while sunny-side-up eggs are only cooked on one side.
Q: What is the best type of pan to use for cooking over easy eggs?
A: A non-stick pan is the best type of pan to use for cooking eggs over easy, as it helps prevent the eggs from sticking to the pan and makes flipping them easier.
Q: Can you cook over easy eggs in the microwave?
A: While it is possible to cook eggs in the microwave, it is not recommended for making over-easy eggs. The microwave tends to cook eggs unevenly and can result in an overcooked yolk.
Q: Are over easy eggs safe to eat?
A: Yes, over easy eggs are safe to eat as long as they are cooked to a safe temperature. It is recommended to cook eggs until the white and yolk are firm to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
Conclusion
Over easy eggs is a classic breakfast dish that is simple to make and delicious to eat. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner in the kitchen, following these tips and recipe ideas will help you make the perfect over easy egg every time. So grab a pan and start cooking - your taste buds will thank you!
