Hard Steamed Eggs Recipe

Eggs: The main ingredient, providing protein and essential nutrients. Using large, room temperature eggs will give the best results.

To achieve perfectly peeled eggs, gently tap the egg on a hard surface to create small cracks all over the shell. Then, start peeling from the wider end where the air pocket is located, making it easier to remove the shell without damaging the egg white.

• Eggs - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be used as a high-protein alternative and can be seasoned to mimic the taste of eggs.

• Eggs - Substitute with chickpea flour mixture: A mixture of chickpea flour and water can create a similar texture to eggs when cooked.

• Eggs - Substitute with aquafaba: The liquid from canned chickpeas can be whipped to create a texture similar to eggs, especially for binding and leavening.

• Eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Mixing flaxseed meal with water creates a gel-like consistency that can replace eggs in many recipes.

• To store your hard steamed eggs, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents any unwanted odors from permeating your fridge.
• For optimal freshness, keep the eggs in their shells until you're ready to eat them. Peeled eggs can dry out more quickly and absorb other flavors from the fridge.
• If you prefer to peel the eggs before storing, wrap each egg individually in plastic wrap or place them in a sealed container with a damp paper towel to keep them moist.
• Store the eggs in the refrigerator for up to one week. Label the container with the date to keep track of their freshness.
• For freezing, it's best to only freeze the egg yolks, as the whites can become rubbery and unappetizing. Separate the yolks from the whites and place the yolks in a freezer-safe container.
• To prevent the yolks from becoming too gelatinous, you can beat them with a pinch of salt or sugar before freezing. This will help maintain their texture when thawed.
• Label the container with the date and whether you added salt or sugar, so you know how to use them later. Frozen yolks can be stored for up to three months.
• When you're ready to use the frozen yolks, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Use them in recipes like custards, soups, or baked goods where their texture will blend seamlessly.

• Stovetop Method

  1. Place a small saucepan on the stove and fill it with about an inch of water.
  2. Bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  3. Place the steamed eggs in a steamer basket or a heatproof colander.
  4. Cover the saucepan with a lid and steam the eggs for about 3-5 minutes, until they are warmed through.

• Microwave Method

  1. Place the steamed eggs in a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Add a tablespoon of water to the bowl to create steam and prevent the eggs from drying out.
  3. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or a plate.
  4. Microwave on medium power for 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

• Oven Method

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the steamed eggs on a baking sheet.
  3. Cover the eggs with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Warm the eggs in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are heated through.

• Sous Vide Method

  1. Preheat your sous vide machine to 140°F (60°C).
  2. Place the steamed eggs in a vacuum-sealed bag or a resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible.
  3. Submerge the bag in the water bath and let the eggs heat for about 15 minutes.
  4. Remove the eggs from the bag and enjoy them warm.

• Pot: A medium-sized pot is needed to hold the water and the steamer basket.

• Steamer basket: This is placed inside the pot to hold the eggs above the boiling water.

• Lid: A lid is used to cover the pot and trap the steam inside.

• Bowl: A bowl is used to prepare the ice water for cooling the eggs.

• Ice: Ice is added to the bowl of water to create an ice bath for the eggs.

• Tongs: Tongs are used to carefully place the eggs in the steamer basket and to transfer them to the ice water.

• Timer: A timer helps to keep track of the steaming time to ensure the eggs are cooked perfectly.

Use room temperature eggs: Starting with room temperature eggs reduces the cooking time slightly and ensures even cooking.

Prepare ice water in advance: Have your bowl of ice water ready before you start steaming to quickly cool the eggs and stop the cooking process.

Steam multiple eggs: Steaming more eggs at once saves time if you need several for a recipe or meal prep.

Use a timer: Set a timer to avoid overcooking and ensure perfectly steamed eggs every time.