If you’re a fan of a poached egg on toast but struggle with traditional methods, a new TikTok hack might be just what you need. The popular TikTok user @chefspartypants claims you can achieve a perfectly poached egg in as little as 44 seconds using a microwave. Intrigued by this quick method, I decided to put it to the test to see if it lives up to the hype.
A Quick and Simple Method
Poached eggs have been a breakfast favourite of mine, especially when paired with salmon on toasted sourdough bread. However, I’ve often found the process challenging. Traditional poaching methods often result in disintegrated whites and a less-than-perfect yolk.
The TikTok hack suggests using a microwave to simplify the process. All you need is a microwave-safe cup, water, a toothpick or sharp knife, and a microwave-safe plate. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on my experience:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start with a fresh egg for the best results. Room temperature eggs work best, so remove them from the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking if possible.
- Set Up: Fill a microwave-safe cup with about a quarter of water. Crack the egg into the cup, ensuring the water covers the egg.
- Pierce the Yolk: Using a toothpick, knife, or fork, carefully pierce the yolk. This step is crucial to prevent the egg from bursting in the microwave.
- Cover and Cook: Place a microwave-safe plate over the cup. Microwave the egg on high for 44 seconds. Check the egg; if the whites and yolk are not fully cooked, add another 16 seconds.
- Serve: Once the egg is cooked to your liking, carefully remove it with a spoon. Place it on a paper towel to drain any excess water. Then, serve it on a slice of toasted sourdough bread, seasoned with salt and black pepper.
Perfect Timing for Your Microwave
Finding the ideal cooking time for your specific microwave might require some experimentation. For my 900W microwave, 60 seconds was the sweet spot. Although the egg turned out well with a runny yolk, there is room for a bit more adjustment depending on how runny you prefer your yolk.
Practical Tips
To avoid messes, always cover the cup with a microwave-safe plate. This prevents any potential egg explosions from splattering inside the microwave. Additionally, using the freshest eggs will yield the best results and more consistent cooking.
Conclusion
While the microwave method for poaching eggs might seem unconventional, it offers a quick and convenient alternative to traditional poaching. With a bit of practice to perfect the timing, you can enjoy a delicious poached egg in just a minute. So next time you’re in a hurry but craving a poached egg, give this microwave hack a try!
