For a soft-boiled egg with a runny yolk and firm white, bring a pot of water to a boil. Gently lower the eggs into the water using a slotted spoon. Cook for 4-5 minutes for a perfect soft-boiled egg. Remove from heat and place the eggs in a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process.
To make a hard-boiled egg with a fully cooked yolk and white, start by placing the eggs in a single layer in a pot. Cover the eggs with water, then bring to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and let the eggs sit in the hot water for 10-12 minutes. Transfer the eggs to a bowl of cold water to cool before peeling.
Poached Egg
To poach an egg, bring a pot of water to a simmer. Add a splash of vinegar to the water to help the egg whites stay together. Crack an egg into a small bowl, then gently slide it into the simmering water. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the whites are set but the yolk is still runny. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.