September 13

Can You Make a Boiled Egg In the Microwave? | Expert Instructions & Tips

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Author: Gisele Perez
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Yes, you can make a boiled egg in the microwave. It's an easy,simple and quick way of making creamy and delicious boiled eggs. The practice of boiling eggs in the microwave has sparked much debate, with various suggestions on how to prevent potential explosions. While some advocate puncturing the eggs to prevent them from exploding when microwaving, experts recommend using salt. 

Use microwave-safe bowls, water, and fresh eggs for this cooking process. You need to add salt to prevent the eggs from bursting when boiling them in the microwave.

The cooking time required depends on one's preferred level of doneness. When the eggs are done cooking, add ice so as to cool the eggs. 

After the eggs are done cooking, you can store them peeled or unpeeled in the refrigerator in a closed container or in the original egg carton if you will not eat them right away. In this way, they can be stored for 7 days. I prefer to eat mine after 2 or 3 days when they are fresh and still have their flavor. 

Key Takeaways

  • Eggs can be boiled in a microwave. This cooking process does not require pans, its simple and quick
  • It is important to use a microwave-safe bowl, fresh eggs, water and add salt to prevent the eggs from exploding when microwaving them. .
  • Different cooking times in the microwave will result in different egg consistencies.
  • Boiled eggs can be stored unpeeled or peeled in the fridge for later use.

Can You Make a Boiled Egg in the Microwave?

Like I mentioned before, you can boil eggs in a microwave oven. You just need to follow specific instructions and adjust cooking times in order to get your desired egg doneness.

You Need a Microwave Safe Bowl, Eggs, Salt and Water

The question of whether you can make a boiled egg in the microwave has been explored by many individuals seeking a convenient and efficient method of cooking eggs.

 By placing eggs in a microwave-safe bowl, covering them with water, and adding salt to prevent explosions, one can cook eggs in the microwave. However, it is important to adjust the cooking time based on your personal preference for either soft or hard-boiled eggs.

Eggs covered with water

After microwaving, I usually put the cooked eggs into ice water to stop further cooking and facilitate easier peeling.By doing this or following these simple guidelines, one can successfully prepare boiled eggs using a microwave.

 This method offers an easy and quick solution for those who desire freedom from traditional stovetop methods of boiling eggs. Having used various microwaves for many years, I can confidently say that they offer a quick and easy way of boiling eggs. 

The Benefits of Boiling Eggs in the Microwave

Fast and Easy way to Cook Eggs

Cooking eggs in the microwave is a fast and easy way to get them just the way you like. This  is great if you don't want to spend a long time boiling them on the stove.It also stops them from breaking when you add salt  and makes them easier to peel.

By utilizing a microwave, the cook time for eggs is  significantly reduced, giving you more time to do other things such as meal preparation in your kitchen. 

No Need to Monitor Boiling Water Levels

Furthermore, microwaving eggs eliminates the need to closely monitor boiling water or adjust heat levels, providing an added level of convenience and ease.

When boiling eggs in the microwave, you can put different cook times depending on your level of desired doneness. Whether you prefer soft-boiled or hard-boiled eggs, the microwave allows for customization based on individual taste preferences. 

No Overcooking or Undercooking  Eggs

Additionally, when one microwaves eggs there are no problems such as overcooking or undercooking that may occur when using traditional stovetop methods.

I really like my boiled eggs fully cooked or hard because they taste so yummy and creamy when done this way. The firm texture and well-cooked yolk is perfect for me.

Boiled eggs served on a white plate

How to Boil Eggs in the Microwave

I’ll share with you some step-by-step instructions and valuable tips to ensure your eggs turn out just the way you like them. It does not matter if  you prefer soft-boiled, hard-boiled, or somewhere in between, the microwave is your go kitchen appliance for hassle-free egg preparation. 

Let's get started on your journey to becoming a microwave egg-boiling pro. 

Ingredients and Tools:

  • Eggs
  • Microwave-safe bowl or mug
  • Water
  • Salt
Eggs, salt, water and a bowl in front of a microwave

Steps:

  • 1. Choose the Right Container: Use a microwave-safe bowl or mug to cook the eggs. Make sure it is deep enough to hold the eggs and water without overflowing during cooking.
  • 2. Add Eggs: Place the desired number of eggs into the microwave-safe container. You can cook one or more eggs at a time
  • 3. Add Water and salt: Add enough water to the container to cover the eggs completely. Add salt to the water to help prevent the eggs from exploding. 
  • 4. Microwave: Set your microwave to cook. Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave's wattage and the desired doneness of your eggs:
    • For soft-boiled eggs (runny yolk): Start with 4-5 minutes of microwave time.
    • For medium-boiled eggs (partially runny yolk): Start with 6-7 minutes of microwave time.
    • For hard-boiled eggs (fully set yolk): Start with 8-9 minutes of microwave time.
  • 5.Remove Eggs: Once done cooking to your preference,  remove the eggs from the microwave. Use oven mitts or a towel, as the container and eggs will be hot. 
  • 6. Cool and Serve: Carefully remove the eggs from the hot water using a spoon or tongs. Place them in a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process and make them easier to handle. Peel the eggs when they have cooled down sufficiently, and then enjoy. 
A person putting eggs in a microwave

Experts Tips to Boiling Eggs in a Microwave

1. Use a microwave-safe bowl: It is crucial to select a microwave-safe bowl that can withstand high temperatures.. This will ensure that eggs will cook safely and efficiently

2. Add water: Fill the bowl with enough water to completely submerge the eggs, plushalf spoon of salt for optimal results. The water will help cook the eggs evenly.

3. Adjust cooking time: The cooking time of the eggs will vary depending on factors such as wattage of the microwave, and your desired level of doneness of your eggs. 

How to Cook Hard Boiled Eggs in the Microwave Without Explosion

Have you wanted to boil eggs in your microwave only to be deterred by the fear of a microwave explosion? It's a common concern, as heating eggs in the microwave can sometimes lead to messy results if you do not take the necessary steps to prevent this. 

However, there's a simple solution to this problem: using salt to prevent explosions.In this section, we will discuss how to cook hard-boiled eggs in the microwave safely and without any problems. 

A person adding salt to the egg in the bowl with water

Why Does Salt Prevent Eggs From Exploding in Microwaves?

The addition of salt to eggs when microwaving prevents explosions by blocking some of the microwave waves from reaching the eggs hence  allows a slower, stovetop-like cooking process. When salt is added to water, it dissolves and releases ions that interfere with the transmission of microwave waves. As a result, the energy from the microwaves is absorbed more gradually by the egg, reducing the likelihood of an explosion. 

Additionally, this slower heating process mimics the traditional stovetop method of boiling eggs. To ensure proper cooking and prevent explosions, it is recommended to add approximately 1/2 teaspoon of salt per egg to the water before microwaving. This technique provides a safer and more controlled environment for boiling eggs in the microwave.

Is There Any Risk of Hard Boiling an Egg in the Microwave?

You can hard-boil an egg in the microwave but there are risks involved. 

Use a Microwave-Safe Container

To minimize any potential risks when boiling eggs in the microwave, it is important to use a microwave-safe bowl. The microwave-safe bowl ensures that it can withstand high temperatures without melting or releasing harmful chemicals into your food.

Also, when you take the hot container out of the microwave, you might burn your hands because it's really hot. To avoid this, use oven mitts or a towel to handle the container safely. I have dedicated oven mitts that I use when handling hot items from the microwave. 

Eggs and bowls

Moreover, without proper precautions, eggs can explode when microwaved. Adding salt to the egg before cooking will help release steam more gradually, reducing the risk of an explosion. Failing to do so may result in a messy and potentially dangerous situation.

By following these precautions of using microwave-safe containers, oven mitts  and adding salt to your eggs before microwaving them, you can safely enjoy the convenience of microwave cooking without compromising your safety or the integrity of your meal. 

How Long Should I Boil an Egg in the Microwave?

When you want to boil an egg in the microwave, it's important to know your level of doneness. If you like it with a runny yolk, microwave it for 4-5 minutes. If you want it a bit firmer, with a partially runny yolk, try 6-7 minutes. And if you like your egg fully cooked with a solid yolk, go for 8-9 minutes.

I like my eggs hard-boiled, so I usually microwave them for 8 minutes. This makes them fully cooked with a firm yolk, and they taste delicious.

Remember, though, microwaves can vary, so you might need to adjust the time a bit to get your egg just the way you like it.

Boiled eggs and their cooking time

Water is Crucial when Boiling Eggs in Microwave

When cooking a hard-boiled egg in the microwave, it is essential to understand that water is crucial for a safe and successful cooking process. Without water, the heat generated by the microwave will cause the liquid inside the egg to turn into steam rapidly. However, since there is no outlet for this steam to escape from within the shell, it builds up pressure until eventually causing an explosion.

To hard boil an egg in the microwave, it is necessary to place it in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with water. This method allows for controlled heating and prevents any dangerous build-up of steam pressure within the shell. By providing enough water during microwaving, it allows for a gradual increase in temperature and avoids potential accidents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make a boiled egg in the microwave without adding salt?

While it is possible to make boiled eggs in the microwave without adding salt, it is not recommended. Adding salt helps prevent egg explosions by regulating the build-up of steam pressure inside the egg.

Can you hard boil an egg in the microwave without water?

No, you cannot hard boil an egg in the microwave without water. Microwaving an egg without the presence of water will result in explosion due to the build-up of steam pressure within the shell.

What other methods can be used to cook boiled eggs besides the microwave?

Other methods for cooking boiled eggs include boiling them on the stovetop, using an electric egg cooker, or steaming them. Each method has different cooking times and techniques, but they all boil eggs efficiently.

How long should I let the eggs sit in the ice water after cooking in the microwave?

The eggs should sit in ice water for at least 6 minutes after cooking in the microwave to cool and stop the cooking process. This also makes them easier to peel.

Can I use a plastic container to boil eggs in the microwave?

No, using a plastic container to boil eggs in the microwave is not recommended unless it is marked microwave-safe. Microwaving plastic plates and containers can release harmful chemicals into the food. It is safer to use microwave-safe glass or ceramic containers for boiling eggs.

Can I use the microwave to reheat already boiled eggs?

Yes, you can use the microwave to reheat already boiled eggs. Place the peeled eggs in a microwave-safe dish and put them in the microwave. Microwave on medium heat for 30-seconds. Once hot, serve.

Conclusion

Boiling eggs in the microwave is a convenient and time-saving method. Despite concerns over explosions, using a microwave-safe bowl and  adding salt to water will  help prevent this issue.

While there may be other  risks associated with microwaving eggs, following proper guidelines will minimize these risks. Use a microwave safe bowl to boil eggs plus use a towel or an oven mitts to hold hot containers from the microwave. The cooking time will vary depending on your desired consistency for boiled eggs.

About the author

Gisele Perez

When not giving in-home, hands-on cooking classes, or developing recipes, Gisele "cooks" wonderful posts for us. She writes about various topics related to cooking appliances and cooking methods.


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