Perfect Poaching

Carefully slide the eggs into
boiling water.

You don't need fancy cooking gadgets to make perfect eggs. Here are some tips.

• Use the freshest eggs possible; they will hold their shape better in the water.
• Bring 2 to 3 inches of water to boiling in a skillet. Reduce the heat to a very gentle simmer (bubbles should just begin to break the surface).
• Break 1 egg into a measuring or custard cup. Carefully slide the egg into the simmering water, holding the lip of the cup as close to the water as possible. Repeat with remaining eggs, spacing them evenly in the skillet.
• Lift the eggs from the pan with a slotted spoon and drain either in the spoon or on paper towels.