To boil an egg without cracking the shell, you can follow these steps:
Start with room temperature eggs: Using eggs that are at room temperature can help prevent cracking. If your eggs are refrigerated, you can let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before boiling.
Use a gentle cooking method: Place the eggs in a single layer in a saucepan or pot. Add enough water to the pot to cover the eggs with about an inch of water.
Heat the water gradually: Start with medium heat to gradually bring the water to a simmer. Avoid placing the eggs directly into boiling water, as the rapid temperature change can cause them to crack.
Simmer the eggs: Once the water reaches a gentle simmer, reduce the heat to low. Allow the eggs to simmer gently for about 9 to 12 minutes, depending on the desired level of doneness. Adjust the time according to your preference—less time for softer yolks and more time for firmer yolks.
Cool the eggs gently: After the desired cooking time, carefully remove the eggs from the hot water and transfer them to a bowl of ice water. The ice water bath helps stop the cooking process and makes it easier to peel the eggs later. Let the eggs cool in the ice water for about 5 minutes.
By following these steps, you can minimize the chances of the eggs cracking during the boiling process. However, keep in mind that occasional cracks can still occur due to various factors such as variations in eggshell thickness or slight temperature fluctuations.