10 Important Things You Should Know About Cooking Eggs

published Mar 28, 2015
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Post Image
(Image credit: Leela Cyd)

The incredible, edible egg. They’re the savory breakfast go-to. Eggs can hold their own for a satisfying lunch. And, when you need dinner in a pinch, eggs are first in line to come to the rescue every time.

Eggs are so simple, yet there’s a lot to know about these tiny wonders. From choosing the right size and color, to the simplest way to test for freshness, to all the cooking methods you need to know, these are the 10 egg essentials to take with you through life.

(Image credit: Faith Durand)

1. White and brown eggs – do you know the difference?

When it comes to buying eggs, do you reach for white eggs or brown eggs? Does color dictate your preference? The difference between the two is likely to surprise you.

2. Yes, there is a difference between egg sizes.

If you’ve ever wondered if there’s an actual difference between medium and jumbo eggs – there is. And, there’s a good reason why recipes specifically call for large eggs.

(Image credit: Leela Cyd)

3. Use a bowl of water to test eggs for freshness.

Even if the expiration date on the carton was marked for last week, don’t toss those eggs just yet! There’s a good chance they’re still fresh. All you need is a bowl of water to find out if they’re still good.

Test your eggs for freshness → Are Your Eggs Fresh? Here’s How to Find Out!

4. The easiest way to separate eggs is with your hands.

No more breaking the yolk on jagged egg shells. Forget about that fancy kitchen gadget. All you need are your bare hands. Sure, your hands will get dirty, but this is a surefire way to separate the yolk from the white with ease and perfection.

5. Expand your horizons – learn a new way to cook eggs.

Boiled eggs are great. Poached eggs are even better. But there are a lot of other ways to cook eggs, and there’s no reason not to know them all.

Know how to cook your eggs → The 14 Most Essential Ways to Cook an Egg

(Image credit: Leela Cyd)

6. Make scrambled eggs – the right way.

Scrambled eggs are seemingly simple enough to make, but even simple meals come with hang-ups. From whisking your eggs at the right time and using the correct pan, to setting the flame over the correct heat and cooking those eggs for just the right amount of time, make sure you’re doing it right.

7. Use a pressure cooker to make a huge batch of eggs.

As Faith mentions, a pressure cooker is the best way to make a big batch of soft-boiled eggs. It’s a hands-off method, the eggs are easy to peel, and it’s easy to control how well-done the eggs are cooked.

8. Your favorite style of eggs says a lot about you.

Scrambled, folded into an omelet, steamed, baked – there’s no wrong way to eat an egg, but your choice gives more than a little insight into your personality.

9. Yes, you can even steam eggs!

You’ve had your share of scrambled, fried, and boiled eggs, but have you ever eaten them steamed? This silky, smooth egg dish is a real treat, and you should have it in your life.

Get the recipe → Korean-Style Steamed Eggs

10. Know how to use up egg whites.

So, you’re planning to make ice cream or another recipe that uses a lot of yolks. Whatever you do, don’t toss the whites! There are a ton of great uses for them. And, if you’re not going to use them right away, that’s totally okay – you can freeze them for later.

Put some egg whites to use → 10 Ways to Use Up Leftover Egg Whites

What are your best tips and advice for cooking eggs?