master-cooks | Dippy Eggs Is The Best Breakfast You've Never Heard Of

Dippy eggs, a beloved breakfast staple in parts of the UK and beyond, offer a delightful culinary experience that's both simple and satisfying. This dish primarily features soft-boiled eggs served with toast cut into thin strips, often called "soldiers," perfect for dipping into the runny yolk. The preparation is straightforward: eggs are carefully boiled to achieve a consistency where the whites are set, yet the yolks remain lusciously liquid. The key to this breakfast lies in its interactive nature, as diners joyfully dip their toast soldiers into the rich, golden yolk, creating a perfect bite with each immersion. This method of eating transforms a humble egg into a delightful morning ritual, combining texture and flavor in every mouthful. Dippy eggs are not only a treat for the taste buds but also evoke a sense of nostalgia for many who grew up enjoying this classic dish. Beyond its simplicity, the meal offers versatility, as diners can experiment with various seasonings or accompany it with sides like bacon or sautéed mushrooms. Whether enjoyed as a comforting start to the day or a leisurely weekend brunch, dippy eggs provide a warm, inviting breakfast experience that is sure to win over anyone who tries it.

Tips for making both styles of dippy eggs

While soft-boiled dippy eggs only require about 5 minutes of cooking time, achieving the perfect result using a pot and boiling water can be challenging, especially when you're pressed for time. Cooking soft-boiled eggs in an air fryer may take a bit longer (around 10 minutes), but it allows for hands-free preparation and minimal cleanup. Simply preheat the air fryer, place your eggs in the basket, and prepare your toast soldiers while they cook to your desired level of doneness.

If your experience with dippy eggs is similar to mine, you'll want to use a few techniques to achieve the ideal fried egg. The key throughout the cooking process is to safeguard the yolk, which can be quite a challenge. It's advisable to crack your eggs into a bowl instead of directly into the pan (and do so gently). Timing the flip is crucial—whites that are crispy around the edges and set on top are typically sturdy enough to keep the yolk intact.

When it comes to serving both styles of dippy eggs, there are numerous options. Eggs and soldiers make for a lighter breakfast that pairs nicely with fruit salad, well-seasoned slices of beefsteak tomato, or sautéed mushrooms and onions. In contrast, over-easy dippy eggs call for heartier accompaniments, such as breakfast potatoes, bacon, or (my personal favorite) herb-infused sausage patties with a golden-brown crust.

Dippy Eggs Is The Best Breakfast You've Never Heard Of

Tips for making both styles of dippy eggs

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