Poached eggs are an elegant way to serve eggs. But stovetop poaching can be tricky for beginners. This easy microwave method takes the guesswork out of poaching eggs ideal for making everything from eggs benedict or a quick weekday breakfast!
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I love fried eggs but there is something so lovely about poached eggs. They feel decedent but with my microwave method, you aren't even going to dirty a frying pan!
Perfect for your avocado toast. Plus, they make great additions to savory meals like noodle bowls and fried rice.
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📖Why the Microwave Method Works
Foolproof Simplicity- With just a few minutes in the microwave, you'll have a perfect poached egg ready to enjoy, making this technique perfect for busy mornings.
No Special Tools - all you need is a microwave-safe mug or small ramekin.
Foolproof Simplicity- Even if you're a cooking novice, you'll achieve consistent results each time. This recipe's straightforward steps and minimal ingredients ensure success, no matter your skill level.
🧾What You Need to Poach Eggs
Fresh Eggs- Standard large eggs work perfectly.
Tap Water
Microwave-Safe Bowl- Your bowl should hold 6 to 8 ounces and be about 3 inches in diameter. Too wide the whites won't properly encase the yolk.
Do you need vinegar to poach eggs in the microwave?
Adding a splash of vinegar to the simmering water is a common trick when making traditional poached eggs. The acid of the vinegar causes the egg white to coagulate which helps the egg to hold its shape while it cooks.
Because you are using a small bowl when using the microwave-poached egg method there is nowhere for the egg whites to go. Therefore, vinegar is an unnecessary step.
Should the water be hot or cold?
When cooking eggs in the microwave it is unnecessary to boil the water first. It obviously takes away from the simplicity. I use lukewarm water. The cook time of your eggs will change slightly if you use hot or cold water.
⏲️How to Make Poached Eggs in the Microwave
Before we start it is important to note that different microwaves have different levels of power. A lower wattage will take longer to cook the egg than a higher-powered unit.
You will need to do a little experimenting to find the perfect cooking time for your own microwave.
Crack your egg into the bowl. Note the height of the egg in the bowl.
Cover with water to 2x the original height, typically, about a ½ cup of water.
Microwave on high for one minute. Use a slotted spoon to remove the egg.
If you prefer a firmer yolk or the egg isn't fully cooked cook in 10 to 15 second increments until done.
You use the same bowl and water for the second egg, but it will cook 5 to 10 seconds faster.
Why did my egg explode in the microwave?
Egg-plosions happen because there is no escape route for steam, the egg yolk is stronger than the delicate egg whites, and uneven heating.
It happens from time to time. You can cover the bowl with a towel to prevent splatters.
Some people pierce the egg yolk with a sharp knife, but I am not a fan of this method as sometimes the creamy yolk escapes. Which for me defeats the purpose of making a poached egg.
🥗How to Serve Poached Eggs
Nestle the poached egg on a toasted English muffin half, topping it with avocado slices for a satisfying breakfast.
Place the egg on a bed of sautéed spinach and drizzle with homemade romesco or hollandaise sauce for an elegant brunch option.
Serve with smoked salmon and sweet potatoes for a unique breakfast. Or to a roasted veggie sandwich for a delicious lunch.
Add to a bowl of ramen or top fried rice or a grain bowl for extra protein.
👩🏻🍳 Expert Tips
Egg Freshness- Use eggs that are as fresh as possible to achieve the best poaching results.
Single Egg- Only make one egg at a time.
Clear Glass Bowl- A clear bowl makes it easier to see if there is enough water to properly cover the egg.
Cover It Up- Place a paper towel over the dish to prevent splatters.
More Egg Recipes
🌡️Storing Leftovers
Poached eggs are best enjoyed fresh. However, leftover poached eggs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
Reheat gently in the microwave or by simmering in hot water for 20-30 seconds before serving.
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📖 Recipe
Microwave Poached Egg
Equipment
- small microwave safe bowl
- slotted spoon
Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- cold water
- kosher salt
Instructions
- Crack an egg into your glass bowl. Cover with water. The amount of water will vary based on the bowl width you use. The water should be two times as deep as the egg. Sprinkle in a little salt.1 large egg, cold water, kosher salt
- Microwave on high for approximately 60 seconds. The egg should have fully set whites with a bright yellow center. If not cook for 10 to 15 seconds increments until done.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the poached egg. Draining on paper towels is optional.
Notes
- Use a cold egg straight from the fridge.
- Cook one egg at a time.
- Cooking times vary based on the wattage of your microwave. They can be as short as 45 seconds up to 90 seconds. Test a few times to determine the best time for your microwave.
Joan says
I love eggs, but I am tempted to poach in chicken broth for a richer flavor. Comments please?
Gerald Babb says
Works great 👍 I pan fry hash browns and top with the eggs. I always boiled water so now I just microwave one egg and mix with hash browns. If I use 2eggs it only takes 1 minute more.
Jen Wooster says
That sounds delicious. Thanks for sharing!