Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sunny Basted Eggs?
Sunny Basted Eggs are a unique breakfast dish that combines the techniques of frying and poaching to create eggs with crispy edges and tender, steamed whites.
What ingredients do I need for this recipe?
You will need 1 tablespoon of butter, 2 eggs, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/4 cup of water.
What type of pan is recommended?
A medium-sized non-stick frying pan is recommended to ensure the eggs do not stick and are easy to slide onto a plate.
How long do the eggs fry before adding water?
The eggs should fry for about 2-3 minutes until the whites start to set around the edges while the center remains runny.
What is the purpose of adding water to the pan?
Adding water and covering the pan creates steam, which cooks the tops of the eggs and the yolks without needing to flip them.
How long should I steam the eggs for a soft yolk?
For soft basted eggs with runny yolks, steam them for about 1-2 minutes until the whites are fully set.
How do I make hard basted eggs?
To make hard basted eggs, leave them under the lid slightly longer than 2 minutes until the yolks are firm to your liking.
What should I serve with Sunny Basted Eggs?
These eggs are best served with crispy toast and fried potatoes for a hearty and satisfying morning meal.
Is this a quick recipe for breakfast?
Yes, this is an easy and quick option for breakfast that can be prepared in under 10 minutes.
Why is a glass lid recommended?
A glass lid is helpful because it allows you to watch the eggs and monitor their doneness without releasing the steam.
At what temperature should I melt the butter?
You should melt the butter over medium heat until it starts bubbling before adding the eggs.
Can I customize the level of doneness?
Yes, this recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to choose between soft, runny yolks or fully cooked, hard-boiled style yolks.
How much butter is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of butter to fry the eggs.
How much salt and pepper should I use?
The recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper, though you can season to your personal taste.
Do I need to flip the eggs?
No, there is no need to flip the eggs because the steam created by the water cooks the tops perfectly.
How many eggs does this specific recipe use?
This recipe is designed for 2 eggs.
Are basted eggs healthy?
Yes, they are considered a healthy breakfast option as they provide protein and can be made with minimal fat.
Can I use this recipe for meal prep?
Basted eggs are best served promptly while hot and fresh, though the process is quick enough for a daily routine.
What is the texture of the egg whites?
The egg whites have crispy fried edges with a tender, steamed texture throughout the rest of the white.
When should I season the eggs?
You should season the eggs with salt and pepper after they have fried for a few minutes but before you add the water and cover the pan.
Is this recipe beginner-friendly?
Absolutely, the basting method is easier for beginners than poaching in water or flipping eggs without breaking the yolks.
What tags define this recipe?
The recipe is tagged as breakfast, eggs, easy recipe, healthy breakfast, and quick meal.
Can I use more than 1/4 cup of water?
It is best to stick to 1/4 cup; too much water might make the eggs soggy instead of just steaming the tops.
How do I ensure the eggs stay separate?
Carefully crack the eggs into different areas of the pan to prevent the whites from merging too much.
What should I do if the yolks are still too runny for me?
Simply place the lid back on and steam for an additional 30 to 60 seconds until they reach your preferred firmness.
Does this recipe contain any carbohydrates?
The eggs and butter themselves are very low in carbohydrates, though serving them with toast will add carbs.
What kind of flavor can I expect?
Expect a rich buttery flavor from the frying process combined with the clean, soft taste of a poached egg.
Is it better to use fresh eggs?
Fresh eggs are always recommended for any egg dish as they hold their shape better in the pan.
How do I transfer the eggs to a plate safely?
Using a non-stick pan allows you to carefully slide the eggs directly from the pan onto your plate once they are cooked.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe if you use a larger pan and maintain the same ratio of water for steaming.