Start with eggs that aren’t chilled. This helps prevent the shells from cracking due to the rapid temperature change.
2. Boil the Water:

Place the eggs in a saucepan and add enough water to cover them completely. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
3. Simmer Gently:

Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low to maintain a simmer. Carefully lower the eggs into the water using a spoon or ladle to prevent them from rattling and breaking.
4. Timing is Key:

Soft-boiled: Cook for 4-6 minutes.
Medium-cooked: Cook for 6-9 minutes.
Hard-boiled: Cook for 10-12 minutes.

Adjust the cooking time slightly based on the size of the eggs and your altitude.
5. Cool and Peel:

When the eggs are done, transfer them to the ice water using a slotted spoon. Let them cool to your preference. This stops the cooking process and makes peeling easier.

To peel, place the eggs back in cold water for about 5 minutes. Gently crack the shells and peel them under running water, which helps remove the shell.
Tips for Success:

Use Slightly Older Eggs: Eggs that are a bit older tend to peel more easily, so avoid using the freshest eggs.
Consistency is Key: Once you find a technique and timing that works for your preferred level of doneness, stick with it.
Storage: Boiled eggs can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Keep them in their shells until you’re ready to eat them for maximum freshness.

Perfectly boiling eggs may take some practice, but once you nail the timing, you’ll enjoy beautifully cooked eggs every time. Embrace the simplicity and potential of this ordinary ingredient—you might be surprised by the delicious results!