Here’s the simple method:
- Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover them with cold water.
- Add 1–2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice to the water.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the eggs cook for 9–12 minutes, depending on whether you want them soft, medium, or hard-boiled.
- Transfer the eggs immediately to an ice bath or rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Extra Tip: Combine Lemon Juice with Baking Soda
For an even better result, some people add a pinch of baking soda along with lemon juice. The alkaline environment created by baking soda works with the citric acid in lemon juice to further ease shell removal.
Health Bonus of Lemon Juice
While the amount of lemon juice used in boiling is small, it still contributes to a more natural and chemical-free cooking solution compared to synthetic additives. It’s an eco-friendly kitchen hack that improves both the cooking process and the final taste.
Conclusion
Adding lemon juice while boiling eggs is a simple yet effective trick that can save you from the common frustrations of cracked shells, hard peeling, and lingering odors. Next time you prepare boiled eggs, try this hack — you’ll be surprised at how much smoother the process becomes.
