For many Brits, the quest for the perfect soft-boiled egg has been a source of kitchen frustration. But that struggle is now over, thanks to a revolutionary method that completely ditches the traditional saucepan.
The Expert's Secret Weapon
According to Tom Ferris, an egg specialist from Roostys, the key to consistent, perfect jammy yolks lies not in a pot of boiling water, but in a device found in over half of UK homes: the air fryer. Ferris states that this appliance offers superior accuracy and temperature control, making it ideal for the task.
He explained that most people assume a saucepan is essential, but the air fryer replicates the boiling water environment without the mess and guesswork. "It's faster, more efficient, and you don't even need to fill the sink with washing up afterwards," Ferris added.
How to Cook Perfect Air Fryer Eggs
The process is remarkably simple. Follow these steps for flawless results every time:
- Preheat your air fryer to 140°C.
- Place the eggs directly into the basket—no foil or tray is needed.
- Cook for approximately eight minutes.
- While they cook, prepare a bowl of cold water with ice.
- As soon as the timer goes off, immediately transfer the eggs to the ice bath.
Ferris emphasises the importance of the ice bath, stating it "stops them cooking further and gives you that perfect soft centre." After just two minutes in the cold water, the eggs are ready to be peeled and served. The shell should come off cleanly, revealing firm whites and beautifully runny yolks.
Tailoring the Technique to Your Taste
This method is not just for soft-boiled eggs. Tom Ferris notes that it's easily adaptable. "If you prefer hard-boiled eggs, add a couple more minutes. For an even runnier yolk, take one minute off. It's that easy," he said.
He also acknowledged that air fryer models can vary, with some running hotter than others. This means a little experimentation might be needed to nail the perfect timing for your specific appliance.
Beyond perfect eggs, the air fryer method is a win for efficiency. "Air fryers are far more efficient than stovetops," Ferris concluded. "You're using less energy, less water and saving time, so it's a win all round." For UK households, this simple trick could transform the morning rush.
