Perfectly Sunny Side-Up Eggs
Creating the perfect sunny side-up eggs may seem like a straightforward task, but mastering it requires attention to detail. The goal is to achieve a tender white surrounding a beautifully runny yolk without breaking it. This recipe is tailored for both beginners and seasoned cooks who want to refine their technique. With just a few ingredients, you'll learn how to create a delicious breakfast dish that pairs perfectly with toast, avocado, or even a sprinkle of cheese. Follow these detailed steps to serve up eggs that are both visually stunning and utterly satisfying.
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
1 tablespoon (unsalted)
Eggs
2 large (fresh)
Salt
to taste (fine sea salt recommended)
Pepper
to taste (freshly ground black pepper)
Instructions
1
Start by placing a heavy skillet over medium-low heat. Add the unsalted butter and allow it to melt slowly, ensuring it coats the bottom of the skillet evenly.
2
Once the butter is melted and begins to foam, test the temperature by splashing a drop of water into the skillet—if it sizzles immediately, you're ready to proceed.
3
Crack the first egg into a small saucer to check for shell fragments. Then, gently slide the egg from the saucer into the skillet, taking care not to break the yolk. Repeat this step with the second egg.
4
Cook the eggs slowly over low heat, watching the whites closely until they turn opaque and set, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to overcook; the yolks should remain soft and runny.
5
Once done, use a spatula to lift the eggs from the skillet. Season with a pinch of fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sunny side-up egg?
A sunny side-up egg is a fried egg cooked on only one side so that the yolk remains liquid and visible on top, resembling a sun.
What ingredients do I need for this recipe?
You will need 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, 2 large fresh eggs, fine sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
What is the best heat setting for cooking the eggs?
A medium-low heat is recommended to ensure the whites set perfectly without browning or toughening.
Why should I use unsalted butter?
Using unsalted butter allows you to control the exact amount of seasoning added at the end with the sea salt.
How do I know if the skillet is hot enough?
Test the temperature by splashing a drop of water into the skillet; if it sizzles immediately, the pan is ready.
Why should I crack the egg into a saucer first?
Cracking the egg into a saucer first allows you to check for shell fragments and ensures the egg can be slid gently into the pan without breaking the yolk.
How long does it take to cook perfectly sunny side-up eggs?
It typically takes about 3 to 4 minutes for the egg whites to turn opaque and set over low heat.
Should I flip the eggs?
No, sunny side-up eggs are never flipped; they are cooked on one side only to keep the yolk runny.
How do I keep the yolk from breaking?
Slide the eggs gently from a saucer into the pan and use a low heat to prevent the eggs from bubbling too vigorously.
What type of pan is best for this recipe?
A heavy skillet is recommended for even heat distribution, though a non-stick skillet also works well for beginners.
How do I ensure the whites are fully set?
Cook the eggs slowly over low heat and watch until the translucent parts of the egg turn completely white and opaque.
When should I season the eggs?
Seasoning with salt and pepper should be done immediately after the eggs are finished cooking and removed from the skillet.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, you can use oil, but butter is preferred in this recipe for its flavor and the way it foams to indicate the pan temperature.
What can I serve with sunny side-up eggs?
They pair perfectly with toast, sliced avocado, or even a sprinkle of cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, this recipe is specifically tailored for both beginners and seasoned cooks looking to refine their technique.
Why did my egg edges turn brown and crispy?
If the edges are brown and crispy, your heat setting was likely too high; try lowering the heat for a more tender white.
What type of salt is recommended?
Fine sea salt is recommended for its clean flavor and delicate texture.
Do the eggs need to be fresh?
Yes, fresh eggs are best as the whites are thicker and hold their shape better during cooking.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed for 2 servings.
Can I cook more than two eggs at a time?
You can cook as many eggs as your skillet can comfortably hold without them touching or overcrowding.
What is the goal of a perfect sunny side-up egg?
The goal is a tender, fully set white surrounding a beautifully runny and unbroken yolk.
Should I cover the pan with a lid?
The recipe does not require a lid, as slow cooking over low heat is sufficient to set the whites.
How do I remove the eggs from the pan?
Use a spatula to gently lift the eggs from the skillet once the whites are set.
What should the butter look like before adding eggs?
The butter should be melted and beginning to foam, ensuring it coats the bottom of the skillet evenly.
Can I use black pepper?
Yes, freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor profile.
How do I prevent the yolk from cooking too much?
Keep the heat low and stop cooking as soon as the whites are opaque; do not leave the eggs in the hot pan once finished.
What if I accidentally break the yolk while cracking?
If you break the yolk in the saucer, it is better to use that egg for a different dish and start over for a perfect sunny side-up result.
Can I add cheese to these eggs?
Yes, a sprinkle of cheese can be added as a topping once the eggs are plated or just before they finish cooking.
Does the type of butter matter?
Unsalted butter is preferred to manage salt levels, but the quality of the butter will also contribute to the final taste.
What is the total preparation and cook time?
The preparation is quick, and the cooking time is approximately 3-4 minutes once the pan is heated.