Sunny-side-up eggs are a classic comfort food, cherished for their silky whites and rich, runny yolks. Easy to master, they can elevate any meal, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With a bit of practice, you can perfect this delightful dish.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and add a teaspoon of butter or oil. Make sure it's spread evenly to coat the surface.
Carefully crack an egg into the pan, aiming to keep the yolk intact. Allow the egg white to settle slightly.
Place a lid on the pan to trap the heat and cook for 2 to 2½ minutes, until the egg white solidifies but the yolk remains deliciously runny.
Season the egg with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Use a spatula to gently lift the egg from the pan and transfer it to your plate. Enjoy your perfectly cooked sunny-side-up egg right away for the best experience.
Serving
Pair your sunny-side-up egg with crispy toast, nestle it in a breakfast sandwich, or serve it alongside sautéed greens for a hearty morning meal. For lunch or dinner, it's a perfect topping for Asian dishes like Thai basil chicken, nasi goreng, or various rice bowls. For more pairing ideas, check out the Serving Suggestions section below.
Notes
Here are my simple tips to nail the perfect sunny-side-up egg:
Choose Fresh Eggs: Using fresh eggs is key because they hold their shape better in the pan, which makes your eggs look nicer.
Pick the Right Pan: Non-stick pans are great for beginners, but seasoned cast iron or ceramic pans also work well if you use enough oil or butter to prevent sticking.
Crack Eggs Carefully: To keep the yolks intact, gently crack the eggs close to the surface of the pan. This approach helps ensure that the yolks remain whole, giving you a beautifully cooked sunny-side-up egg.
Keep the Heat Moderate: Start with your pan on low to medium heat. Cooking eggs on high heat can cause the whites to cook too quickly, which might lead to burnt edges.
Add Fat for Flavor and Non-stickiness: A bit of oil or butter not only prevents the egg from sticking but also adds a nice flavor to them.
Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure to leave enough space between each egg in the pan. This allows them to cook evenly and spread out without merging into each other.
Season After Cooking: Sprinkle salt and pepper on your eggs after they're in the pan. Adding salt too early can draw moisture out of the whites, making them watery. Seasoning later helps maintain the perfect texture of your sunny-side-up eggs.
Adjust Cooking Time for Perfect Yolks: Depending on whether you like your yolks runny or firm, adjust your cooking time accordingly. Less time for runny yolks, more for firmer ones.