Fried eggs might seem simple, but mastering them is a culinary rite of passage. Whether you prefer yours sunny-side-up, over-easy, or crispy-edged, there’s something universally satisfying about a perfectly fried egg.

Making the perfect fried egg involves paying attention to details like heat control, cooking time, and technique.

Buy the Ingredients

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fresh eggs

2 – 3 tsp of chee butter or olive oil (butter gives more flavor)

Salt and pepper to taste

Buy the tools

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A non-stick skillet

A spatula

A small bowl (optional)

Directions

Place the skillet on medium-low heat and let it warm up for a minute or two. The pan should be hot but not smoking. This ensures even cooking and prevents the egg from sticking.

Add Butter or Oil:

Add 1-2 teaspoons of butter or oil to the pan. Swirl it around to coat the bottom evenly. If using butter, wait until it’s fully melted and slightly bubbling, but not browned.

Crack the Egg:

Crack the egg into a small bowl first (this step is optional but helps prevent broken yolks). Then gently slide the egg into the skillet. If you crack it directly into the pan, be careful to do so gently to keep the yolk intact.

Cook the Egg:

Sunny Side Up: Let the egg cook without flipping it. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the whites are set but the yolk is still runny. You can cover the pan with a lid for the last minute to help the top of the white set without overcooking the yolk.

Over Easy: Once the whites are mostly set (about 2 minutes), gently flip the egg using a spatula. Cook for another 15-30 seconds, just enough to cook the top of the egg without hardening the yolk.

Over Medium: Cook as above, but leave the egg flipped for about 1 minute. The yolk will be slightly more set.

Over Hard: Flip the egg and cook for 2-3 minutes until the yolk is fully cooked through.

Season:

Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper over the egg right before or after cooking, depending on your preference.

Serve:

Carefully slide the egg onto a plate and serve immediately with a fresh crusty bread.

Fried eggs are great on toast, alongside bacon, or as part of a breakfast sandwich.

Tips:

• Heat Control: Low to medium-low heat is key to avoid burning the edges while leaving the yolk runny.
• Non-Stick Pan: Using a non-stick pan is crucial for an easy release and perfect presentation.
• Fresh Eggs: Fresher eggs have tighter whites, which result in a neater fried egg.