When it comes to cooking hacks, we're experienced — especially when it comes to hard-boiled egg hacks. In fact, we've tried (and failed at) a few different methods. From rolling the egg in a glass of cold water to blowing it out of its shell, we've spent plenty of time trying to decipher which hacks work, and which are just wack (lookin' at you, water trick).
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It's no secret that peeling hard-boiled eggs can be tricky. Great news though! We think we've found the hack to end all hacks. Just in time, too! It seems like the Internet is in dire need of one.
For a perfect peel every time, use this simple two-step trick.
Step 1) Start the eggs in boiling water.
Listen, I'm as impatient as anyone, but there are some things you just can't rush in life. Namely, hard-boiled eggs. Though most recipes call for starting eggs in cold water and then bringing them to a boil, we've found this doesn't always cut it. For a perfect egg and an easy peel, carefully transfer cold eggs (fridge fresh) into boiling water right off the bat. That means you'll have to wait a bit for the water to get to a rolling boil so the eggs can do their thang, but it'll be worth it.
Step 2) Add a teaspoon of baking soda.
Once boiling, sprinkle a teaspoon of baking soda into your water to help those shells come right off. Why baking soda? It increases the levels of alkaline in the water, which helps loosen the egg whites from the inside of the shells (read: fewer chances of dents and dings when you get 'em peeled). From there, let the eggs boil for about 12 minutes, then remove, let cool, and marvel at how easy it is to peel the shells. No rolling, blowing, popping, shimmying or shaking — just a perfect peel every time. For even more comfort in your egg-peeling game, keep a bowl of ice cold water on hand and dunk the eggs for a bit after boiling. The ice bath helps stop the cooking on the inside, and makes them easier to handle. Because who wants burned hands on their hands? Amirite? Let's be honest: your deviled eggs deserve it.
