A revolutionary kitchen hack promising perfectly poached eggs in just five minutes using an air fryer has taken the internet by storm, sparking fierce debate among breakfast enthusiasts.
The Foolproof Air Fryer Method
Culinary experts from taste.com unveiled their simple yet genius technique in a viral TikTok clip. The method requires only a few small, oven-safe ramekins and some freshly boiled water. For each egg, you place a ramekin in the air fryer basket, fill it halfway with boiling water, and then carefully crack an egg into it.
The key to achieving your preferred consistency lies in the timing. The experts recommend air frying at 200°C for five minutes for a runny yolk, six minutes for a softer set, and seven minutes for a firmer finish. Once cooked, the eggs are lifted out with a spoon and rested on kitchen paper to absorb any excess moisture.
Mixed Reactions from the Public
The hack has garnered a passionate response online. One eager commenter praised the idea, saying, "Damn guys, I'm liking this idea." However, not all trials were successful, with one user noting they needed to add extra time as they could still see raw egg white.
Traditionalists were quick to defend classic methods. One sceptic remarked, "Poaching eggs takes two minutes on the hob; I don't know why people act like it's hard." Another who tested the air fryer method vowed to stick to the stove, suggesting using leftover kettle water to make a cup of tea instead.
Alternative Quick Methods
The discussion also brought microwave techniques into the spotlight. Advocates for this appliance shared their own shortcuts, such as using a ramekin with cold water and a dash of vinegar, microwaving for around one minute and eight seconds. Another suggested placing an egg in a bowl of boiling water, covering it, and microwaving for 50 to 60 seconds.
A crucial safety warning accompanies all these methods: cooks must be extremely careful when removing the hot ramekins from the air fryer or microwave, using an oven mitt or tea towel to prevent burns.
Whether you're an air fryer devotee or a hob purist, the quest for the perfect poached egg continues to inspire innovation and lively debate in home kitchens across the UK.
