Step 1

Bring water and oil to a gentle boil in a pot large enough to lay the eggs in one layer.

Step 2

Add the eggs one at a time gently to the boiling water using a spoon.

Step 3

Boil for exactly 13 minutes for hard boiled eggs, or 10 for medium, and 3-6 for soft (depending on how runny you want the yolk.

Step 4

Meanwhile, prepare an ice bath with about a tray's worth of ice and enough water to completely submerge the eggs.

Step 5

Remove the eggs with a slotted spoon and place immediately in ice bath.

Step 6

Allow to sit for at least 10 minutes in bath.

Step 7

Peel gently, preferably under running cold running water.