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How to Poach the Perfect Egg
by Diane Palmer

Many people shy away from making poached eggs, because it is "messy", but in reality, it is a quick way to cook an egg. I found the trick to be, keeping the water as still as possible. You don't need to stir it around, or make a "whirlpool" like my dad used to! This just creates a lot of messy whites floating around in the water, which is not too appetizing!

Poached eggs, can be made ahead of time, they are versatile and can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner, and are high in protein. Here are a few basic steps to create great poached eggs:

1. Heat at least two inches of water in a twelve inch fry pan (with sides) using the medium setting until you can see bubbles on the bottom of the pan.

2. Crack a large egg into a separate bowl, and when the water starts to boil (tiny bubbles) pour your egg from the small bowl into the water, being careful not to break the yolk.

3. Don't touch them, let them cook until the white is just set but the yolk is still runny, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. (Don't have the heat up so high you have a rolling boil, just a gentle tiny boil, where the bubbles are just breaking the surface) You may need to use a spatula, if the egg sticks to the bottom of the pan.

4. Using a large slotted spoon, take the egg from the water, and if you are going to eat it right away, take the egg and the spoon and sit it gently on a paper towel to absorb excess water. (You don't need your eggs swimming around on the plate!)

5. Did you know that you can store poached eggs in the fridge for up to three hours. If you do this, and then want the egg heated again, just heat some water in a skillet, and gently add the poached eggs back to the water and they will heat back up in approximately 30 seconds.

You can use them in salads for lunch, or on toast for breakfast. Eggs are one of nature's most perfect foods, and by poaching them, you are controlling the fat you add to your meal.

A great way to serve them (my favorite) is to light spread cream cheese on whole grain toast, and then add a couple of poached eggs.. This tastes great! You could also add a slice of tomato, or any vegetable you have left in the fridge.

Poached eggs are a great dinner, when you just don't know what to eat.. Always keep eggs handy, and you will always have a meal.

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Find a great HOMEMADE BARBEQUE SAUCE recipe, and WOW your guests. Article and website by Diane Palmer.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com

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ARTICLE POSTED MARCH 15, 2010

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