A poached egg is one of the simplest yet most elegant ways to enjoy eggs. With a soft, runny yolk and a delicate, tender white, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a protein boost on salads and toast.

If you’ve ever struggled with poaching eggs, don’t worry—I’ve got the easiest foolproof method for you. Whether you’re making Eggs Benedict, avocado toast, or a grain bowl, these perfectly poached eggs will take your meal to the next level!

🛒 What You’ll Need

Ingredients:

• 2 large fresh eggs
• 4 cups water
• 1 tbsp white vinegar (helps keep egg whites intact)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Tools:

• Small saucepan
• Slotted spoon
• Small bowl or ramekin
• Paper towel

👩‍🍳 Pro Tips for Poaching Eggs

1. Use fresh eggs – Fresh eggs hold their shape better in water, preventing wispy whites.
2. Add vinegar – A little vinegar helps the whites coagulate faster, creating a neater poached egg.
3. Create a water vortex – Swirling the water gently helps the egg wrap around itself for a perfect shape.
4. Crack eggs into a small bowl first – This ensures an easier and gentler transfer into the water.
5. Don’t overcook – A perfect poached egg takes 2-4 minutes, depending on your yolk preference.

⏳ Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Make ahead: Poached eggs can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in cold water in the fridge.
• Reheat: Place the poached egg in warm water (not boiling!) for 30 seconds before serving.
• Do not freeze – The texture will change, and it won’t be the same.

🔥 How to Make the Perfect Poached Egg

1️⃣ Heat the Water

1. Fill a small saucepan with about 4 inches of water.
2. Bring it to a gentle simmer (not a rolling boil). You should see tiny bubbles forming at the bottom.
3. Add 1 tbsp white vinegar to help keep the egg whites together.

2️⃣ Crack & Prep the Egg

1. Crack one egg into a small bowl or ramekin (this prevents shell pieces and makes transferring easier).

3️⃣ Create a Water Swirl (Optional)

1. Using a spoon, stir the water in a circular motion to create a gentle vortex.
2. This helps the egg white wrap around the yolk for a perfectly round poached egg.

4️⃣ Gently Drop the Egg In

1. Slowly slide the cracked egg into the center of the vortex.
2. Let it cook undisturbed for 2-4 minutes:
   • 2 minutes for very runny yolk
   • 3 minutes for a slightly firmer yolk
   • 4 minutes for a fully set yolk

5️⃣ Remove & Drain

1. Use a slotted spoon to carefully lift the poached egg out of the water.
2. Place it on a paper towel to drain excess water.

6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!

1. Place the poached egg on toast, avocado, or salad.
2. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

🍽️ Serving Ideas for Poached Eggs

• Classic Toast – On buttered sourdough with salt & pepper
• Avocado Toast – Over mashed avocado with chili flakes
• Eggs Benedict – On an English muffin with ham & hollandaise
• Breakfast Bowl – Over rice, roasted veggies & hot sauce
• Salad Topper – On a bed of greens for extra protein

🥡 Leftovers & Storage Tips

• Make ahead? Yes! Store poached eggs in cold water in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheat? Drop into warm (not boiling) water for 30 seconds before serving.

🍳 Time to Poach Like a Pro!

Now you have all the secrets to making the perfect poached egg every time! Whether you enjoy it on toast, in a bowl, or as part of Eggs Benedict, this simple technique will make you a pro in no time.

Tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments! Happy cooking! 🍽️✨