What is the general rule for cooking eggs?

There's no single "general rule" for cooking eggs, as the best method depends on the desired outcome (soft boiled, hard boiled, scrambled, fried, etc.). However, here's a general guideline for cooking eggs successfully:

General Principles:

* Start with cold eggs: This helps to ensure even cooking and prevents cracking.

* Adjust cooking time: Cooking time varies significantly depending on the method and desired doneness. It's essential to monitor your eggs closely and adjust cooking time accordingly.

* Avoid overcooking: Overcooked eggs can be rubbery and dry.

* Seasoning: Salt and pepper are common seasonings for eggs, but you can experiment with other spices and herbs.

* Doneness: The level of doneness for eggs is a matter of personal preference.

Here's a breakdown of cooking methods and their general guidelines:

Boiling:

* Soft-boiled: Gently simmer eggs in water for 3-5 minutes, depending on desired doneness.

* Hard-boiled: Boil eggs for 8-10 minutes.

* Important Note: To prevent the yolk from turning green, immediately plunge boiled eggs into ice water after cooking.

Frying:

* Over easy: Fry eggs in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping only once. Leave the yolk runny.

* Sunny-side up: Fry eggs in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Do not flip. Leave the yolk runny.

* Over medium: Fry eggs in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side. Flip once the whites are set but the yolk is still runny.

* Over hard: Fry eggs in a skillet over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side. Flip once the whites are set and the yolk is mostly set.

* Scrambled: Beat eggs with milk or cream, then cook over medium heat in a greased skillet, stirring frequently until set.

Other Methods:

* Omelets: Beat eggs with milk or cream, then pour into a greased skillet over medium heat. Cook until the bottom is set, then fold over and cook for a few more minutes.

* Quiche: A baked dish consisting of eggs, milk or cream, and fillings like cheese, vegetables, and meat.

* Baked eggs: Eggs cooked in a baking dish with additional ingredients like vegetables, cheese, and meat.

Important Tips:

* Use fresh eggs: Older eggs are more likely to crack and the yolk may be runny even after cooking.

* Use a non-stick skillet: This will prevent eggs from sticking.

* Be patient: Allow the eggs to cook slowly and evenly.

* Experiment: Don't be afraid to experiment with different cooking methods and seasonings.

Remember, these are just general guidelines. It's best to experiment and find what works best for you!