Poached eggs or Romanian sunny-side up eggs

Poached eggs: a classic delight that combines tradition with culinary refinement. This recipe offers a unique culinary experience, loved by both those who prefer simple cooking and those who seek more sophisticated dishes. Poached eggs, or eggs cooked in water, represent an elegant cooking technique that preserves the juiciness and flavor of fresh eggs without adding extra fats.

Total time: 15 minutes
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Servings: 3 servings

The history of this recipe is lost in the mists of time, but what we know for sure is that eggs have been essential foods in the diets of many cultures throughout history. The cooking of poached eggs became popular due to the simple technique, but it requires a bit of skill. Poached eggs are ideal for breakfasts, brunches, or even dinner, being versatile and easy to pair with various ingredients.

Ingredients:
- 3 fresh eggs
- 1 liter of water
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 3 tablespoons of vinegar
- Salt and pepper for serving
- Green onion and slices of cheese (optional, for serving)

Necessary utensils:
- A large pot
- A spoon or fork (to create a whirlpool)
- A slotted spoon (to remove the eggs from the water)
- Cups or small bowls (for cracking the eggs)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the water: Start by bringing a liter of water to a boil in a large pot. Add a teaspoon of salt and the 3 tablespoons of vinegar. The vinegar helps to coagulate the egg white, preventing it from spreading in the water.

2. Boiling: When the water reaches a boiling point, reduce the temperature to low. It is important that the water does not boil vigorously, but remains at a constant temperature so that the eggs cook evenly.

3. Cracking the eggs: Carefully crack each egg into a cup or small bowl, making sure not to break the yolk. This step is essential to maintain the shape of the egg.

4. Creating the whirlpool: Use a spoon or fork to create a whirlpool in the water. This will help the egg white swirl around the yolk, keeping its spherical shape.

5. Cooking the eggs: With a quick motion, pour the egg from the cup into the center of the whirlpool. Let the eggs cook for 3 minutes for a soft yolk or 4-5 minutes for a hard yolk.

6. Removing the eggs: Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the eggs from the water. Drain them well to remove excess water.

7. Serving: Season the poached eggs with salt and pepper. You can serve them warm, alongside chopped green onion and a few slices of cheese. This combo will add a note of freshness and a delicious contrast.

Practical tips:
- Egg source: Use fresh eggs, as they coagulate better and hold their shape. You can check the freshness of the egg using the water method: if it floats, it is not fresh.
- Vinegar: If you don't have vinegar on hand, you can use lemon juice. It will have the same coagulating effect.
- Variations: You can experiment with various spices or herbs in the water, such as basil or dill, to add extra flavor to your eggs.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use more eggs at the same time?
Yes, you can cook multiple eggs at the same time, but make sure you have enough water and that you can still create the whirlpool.

2. How can I keep poached eggs longer?
Poached eggs are best served immediately, but if you need to keep them, you can leave them in a bowl of warm water and reheat them gently before serving.

3. What can I pair poached eggs with?
Poached eggs pair wonderfully with toasted bread, avocado, smoked salmon, or even on a bed of green salad.

Nutritional information:
- The egg is an excellent source of quality protein, containing all essential amino acids.
- It is rich in vitamins A, D, and B12, as well as minerals such as selenium and phosphorus.
- The egg has about 70 calories, making it an ideal choice for a healthy breakfast or nutritious snack.

In conclusion, poached eggs are a delicious and versatile choice, easy to prepare and full of nutrients. I invite you to discover them and integrate them into your meals! With every bite, you will feel that you have brought a touch of elegance and health into your life. Enjoy your meal!