Step 1

Prepare the Eggs: Arrange the eggs in a single layer at the bottom of a medium-sized pot. Ensure they are spaced out and not overlapping.

Step 2

Add Water: Pour enough water into the pot to completely cover the eggs. Aim for at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water above the eggs.

Step 3

Boil the Eggs: Place the pot on the stove and turn the heat to high. Wait for the water to reach a rolling boil. This is when the water is boiling vigorously with lots of bubbles.

Step 4

Cook to Your Preference: Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly to maintain a gentle boil. Start your timer and cook the eggs for: 3-4 minutes for soft-boiled eggs with runny yolks; 6-7 minutes for medium-boiled eggs with slightly firm yolks; 10-12 minutes for hard-boiled eggs with firm yolks.

Step 5

Prepare Ice Bath: While the eggs are cooking, prepare an ice bath by filling a bowl with cold water and adding 2 cups of ice.

Step 6

Cool the Eggs: As soon as your timer goes off, use a slotted spoon to carefully transfer the eggs from the boiling water to the ice bath. Let them chill in the ice bath for about 10 minutes. This stops the cooking process and makes peeling the eggs easier.

Step 7

Peel and Serve: After chilling, take the eggs out of the ice bath. They are now ready to peel and serve as you like.