There’s a lot of debate on how to properly fry an egg. Some prefer to use olive oil while others swear by butter. It all comes down to preference and who you’re cooking for. Here are a few techniques to get the style you desire.
Crispy Edges. If you desire an egg with golden edges try the Spanish-style. Cook the egg in a pool of olive oil which you’ll use to baste over the whites until just set. You want the pan to be hot but not smoking to get the extra crunch.
Diner-Style. This method calls for a little hot water instead of just fat. Basting with water as the egg cooks will result in soft, tender eggs instead of crispy ones. It’s similar to an over-easy egg.
Indulgent Egg. If you’re looking for the most decadent way to enjoy an egg, try frying it in heavy cream. As it cooks the cream simmers and breaks into milk and butter solids, leaving you with an intensely flavored egg and caramelized edges.
In-Between Eggs. Butter basting is a classic technique that gives you an egg that’s not too crispy or too tender. Cooked on medium heat in a nonstick pan, the egg is covered in browning butter until set.
The Sheet Pan. If you’re making eggs for a group, try a sheet pan. Preheat and oil a tray in an over for 15 minutes at 450F. Then, crack a dozen eggs in a large bowl and slide them onto the pan. You’ll have diner-style eggs ready in five minutes.
