Fried eggs with crispy edges and runny yolks are a breakfast staple, but flipping them without breaking the yolk can be tricky. Sunny-side eggs often leave whites undercooked, while over-easy eggs risk turning into scrambled eggs. However, egg enthusiast Meaghan Webster has shared a simple lid method that eliminates the need for flipping entirely.
Webster, founder of Meags Eggs, explained: “I tried to like frying eggs over-easy. Except it wasn’t that easy, and I chose the lazy option. So I regularly practice the lid method instead. Letting the heat of a pan cook the bottom of an egg, and covering the pan to steam the top of the egg.” The technique requires no “egg gymnastics” and cooks the egg in just 45 to 60 seconds.
To try it, heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat for about a minute. Crack the eggs into the pan and cook until the whites begin to set. Then, place a lid on the pan and steam for 45 to 60 seconds, or until the whites are set but the yolk remains soft. Webster advises wiggling the pan to check if the yolk jiggles. Once done, transfer the egg to a plate with a spatula.
This method is ideal for busy mornings or cooking for multiple people. For extra laziness, Webster suggests frying two eggs together, letting the whites join, then separating them with a spatula for separate slices of toast. The technique ensures perfectly cooked eggs every time, with no risk of broken yolks.
