Poaching Eggs

A lot of people freak out unnecessarily about poaching eggs. Possibly because at one stage i was having them every second night, I find them far easier than omelettes and even boiled eggs (i always overcook them). So it must just be like anything, practice and know you'll stuff up a few along the way. Poached eggs are a perfect solo meal anyway, so nobody has to know when this happens. Every so often you'll get an egg that just doesn't want to be poached, don't take it personally. There are a few key points to a perfect poached egg. The eggs must be super fresh, and come from a happy, free roaming chicken. If they are not fresh and of poor quality they will just disintegrate during the poaching process. You need to add a little acid to the cooking water, i use lemon juice but you can also use vinegar. Maybe half a teaspoon each egg, this helps them stay together. As for the stir or not to stir conundrum I don't think it makes a huge difference, and if you are poaching more than 2 eggs it can just make things harder. Sometimes I do it, sometimes I don't. Toss a coin. For a medium sized (70g) egg 3 minutes is the perfect poaching time. Set a timer! The purpose of poached eggs is to be able to pierce it with a fork and have the yolk ooze out. I get a thrill every time. My number one hangover meal is poached eggs on toasted miche sourdough with avocado and goats cheese or labne sprinkled with sea salt. Sure beats a greasy burger.  

Poached Eggs:

4 fresh, organic eggs

2 tsp lemon juice/vinegar

Method:

Bring a medium to small saucepan filled with water and the lemon juice to the boil. While this is happening, crack the eggs into mini ramekins or small cups. Turn the heat down low, you want the water barely simmering. Give the water a small stir (if you wish) and carefully add the eggs, one at a time. Set the timer, keep an eye that the water is not simmering to vigorously. When the timer has pinged, remove the eggs with a slotted spoon, allow to drain for a few seconds, and serve. For my fav way, while the eggs are poaching toast some sourdough, rub it with a little garlic smear with avocado and crumble on some goats cheese or labne. When they eggs are done place them on top and sprinkle with some sea salt. 

Serves two.