To avoid the egg sticking to a non-stick frying pan when making a half-fried egg (also known as over-easy or sunny-side-up), you can follow these tips:
Preheat the pan: Place the non-stick frying pan over medium heat and let it preheat for a few minutes. A properly preheated pan helps to create a non-stick surface.
Add cooking fat: Once the pan is preheated, add a small amount of cooking fat like butter, olive oil, or cooking spray to the pan. Use a spatula or brush to evenly coat the bottom of the pan with the fat.
Crack the egg gently: Carefully crack the egg into a separate bowl or directly into the preheated and greased pan. This helps to prevent any shell fragments from getting into the pan.
Reduce the heat: Lower the heat to low or medium-low. Cooking the egg at a lower heat helps to prevent sticking and allows for more control over the cooking process.
Cover the pan (optional): If you prefer a more evenly cooked egg, you can cover the pan with a lid while the egg cooks. The steam generated will help cook the top of the egg gently.
Cook until desired doneness: Allow the egg to cook undisturbed until the whites are set but the yolk is still runny. This typically takes a few minutes, but you can adjust the cooking time based on your preference.
Use a spatula: Once the egg is cooked to your desired level, gently slide a spatula underneath the egg to loosen it from the pan. Take care not to break the yolk.
Flip with caution (optional): If you want to make a half-fried egg with a flipped yolk, carefully flip the egg using the spatula. This can be a bit tricky, so practice and patience are key.
Cook briefly (optional): If you flipped the egg, cook it for an additional 10-15 seconds to lightly set the yolk or leave it as is for a completely runny yolk.
Remove from heat and serve: Once the egg is cooked to your liking, carefully transfer it to a plate. Season with salt, pepper, or other desired toppings, and serve immediately.
Remember, using a non-stick frying pan with a good-quality non-stick coating and following the steps above should help prevent the egg from sticking. Additionally, using a gentle touch while handling the egg and avoiding high heat can also contribute to a successful, non-stick cooking experience.