Love eggs? Why not coddle them? Try this cooking style to create a unique breakfast meal.
I think there are few things more delicious in the morning than a perfectly poached egg. When a friend asked me if I’ve ever coddled an egg, I probably looked as puzzled as she expected. She explained to me that a family member handed down a coddler, which is a porcelain container with a lid. It’s used to cook eggs gently in a water bath, resulting in a soft, tender egg with a creamy, runny yolk.
But isn’t that basically a poached egg or a soft-boiled egg? Not quite. Coddling an egg requires cooking it at a low temperature, which does take a bit longer. Coddling also helps preserve the egg’s nutrients, as opposed to boiling, which uses high heat and can compromise the benefits of the egg.
Once I borrowed her coddler, I was hooked. As much as I love poached eggs, I thought that the texture of the coddled eggs was even more delicious. If you’re looking for a new way to jazz up your breakfast eggs, I recommend trying this technique! Oh, and fret not if you don’t have a coddler. Oven-safe cups or ramekins with lids will work, too.
Is This Coddled Egg Recipe Healthy?
It sure is! A coddled egg is a great source of protein, as well as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants like choline, iron, and vitamin D. While eggs tend to have a bad reputation for their dietary cholesterol content, many studies show that eggs can be consumed in moderation. Chives are a simple add-on to the dish that provide some antioxidants and vitamin K. If you’re looking to avoid lactose, you’ll want to replace butter with ghee or a plant-based alternative. This meal is also suitable for gluten-free and Paleo diets.
A One-Stop Cooking Device
One of the many advantages of coddled eggs is that you can add different flavors and textures to the dish. Some of my favorite ways to customize coddled eggs are with a variety of spices and seasonings. I love sprinkling Cajun powder on the egg before cooking to add some heat. For a more savory coddled egg, I like to add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese to the egg. Finally, don’t forget about meat! If you want a more filling meal, add ham, chorizo, bacon bits, or crumbled sausage to the coddler. The opportunities are endless!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Although this recipe is best served fresh, you can store coddled eggs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let them cool first before refrigerating. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover coddled eggs, place them in a microwave-safe dish with a small amount of water. Cover the dish and microwave for 30 to 60 seconds, checking throughout to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
The great thing about coddled eggs is that you can turn them into a mini meal and add different ingredients directly to the coddler. For example, I like to add in shredded cheese, crumbled bacon and chopped mushrooms. Since coddled eggs are traditionally served for breakfast and brunch, why not serve them up with some delicious breakfast sides like Turkey Sausage or Air-Fryer Breakfast Potatoes?
If you’re craving carbs in the morning, I would recommend coddled eggs with Delicious Cottage Cheese Pancakes or Protein Waffles. That way, you’re adding some more protein to your morning. Whatever you choose to eat alongside the coddled eggs, you’ll want something delicious to drink. Start off the day with a nutty Peanut Butter Keto Low-Carb Smoothie With Almond Milk or a caffeine kick from this Coffee Smoothie.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 medium eggs
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives chopped
Instructions
- Grease the coddler or cups lightly with butter and set aside. Fill a saucepan with enough water to reach about halfway up the sides of the coddler or cups. Bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Carefully crack an egg into each coddler or cup. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Place the coddler or cups into the saucepan of water and cover with a lid. Simmer for about 8 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your liking.
- Turn off the heat and carefully remove the coddler or cups with tongs. Carefully unmold the eggs, sprinkle with fresh chives, and serve them immediately.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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