Forget everything you thought you knew about cooking the perfect fried egg. A groundbreaking culinary tip is doing the rounds, promising to transform your breakfast game forever. The secret? It’s not about the heat or the pan—it’s about ditching the cooking oil altogether.
For generations, a glug of vegetable or sunflower oil has been the default start to frying an egg. But top chefs and food scientists now agree that swapping that bland oil for a simple spoonful of extra virgin olive oil is the key to unlocking a world of flavour, texture, and health benefits.
Why Olive Oil Makes All the Difference
The magic lies in the properties of high-quality olive oil. Unlike neutral-tasting seed oils, extra virgin olive oil is packed with flavour compounds that infuse the egg as it cooks, creating a richer, more complex taste profile.
The result? Eggs with an irresistibly crispy, golden-brown lace around the edges and a soft, runny yolk that is bursting with depth. It’s a restaurant-quality technique that requires zero extra effort.
Three Unbeatable Benefits of the Olive Oil Swap
- Superior Flavour: The olive oil imparts a subtle, fruity note that complements the egg’s natural savoury taste, making even a simple egg a gourmet experience.
- Perfect Texture: It encourages those delightfully crispy, caramelised edges (known as ‘lace’) that are the hallmark of a perfectly fried egg.
- A Healthier Choice: Extra virgin olive oil is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, making your favourite breakfast better for you.
How to Cook Your New Favourite Fried Egg
Ready to try it? The method is beautifully simple.
- Place a non-stick frying pan over a medium heat.
- Add a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and let it heat up for 30 seconds.
- Crack your egg directly into the pan.
- Cook to your preferred level of doneness, spooning the warm oil over the top of the egg for an even cook.
- Season with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately and taste the revolution!
This small change is causing a big stir in home kitchens across the UK. It proves that sometimes, the most impactful culinary upgrades are the simplest ones. Your breakfast will never be the same again.
