how long doi boil eggs

For large chicken eggs on the stove, these timings (once the water is gently boiling or just off the boil) are a good guide:

• 4–5 minutes: set whites, very runny yolk (dippy eggs).

• 6–7 minutes: soft‑boiled, jammy or mostly runny center.

• 8–9 minutes: medium, fully set white, custardy center.

• 10–12 minutes: classic hard‑boiled, fully set yolk without being chalky.

Cool the eggs in cold water or an ice bath right after cooking so they stop cooking and peel more easily.