How Long Does It Take to Boil 18 Eggs?

Buffet season is just around the corner, and you've decided to take on the challenge of boiling 18 eggs for your gathering. Curious about how long it will take? We've prepared a detailed guide to help you master the art of boiling eggs efficiently.

Overview of Boiling Eggs

Boiling eggs might seem like a simple task, but there are a few key considerations to keep in mind, especially when dealing with a larger batch like 18 eggs. The boiling process is primarily influenced by the size of the pot and the heat source rather than the number of eggs. This ensures that the eggs are cooked evenly throughout the process.

General Guidelines for Boiling Eggs

Here is a step-by-step guide to boiling a batch of eggs:

Step 1: Preparation

Place eggs in a single layer in a pot

Ensure that the cold water covers the eggs by about an inch

Step 2: Bring to a Boil

Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat

Once boiling, cover the pot

Remove from heat and let the eggs sit in the hot water for the desired time

Step 3: Cooling Process

Transfer the eggs to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process

Let the eggs sit in the ice water for about 5 minutes

Gently tap the eggs on a hard surface to crack the shells, then peel them under cold running water

Specific Guidelines for Boiling 18 Eggs

The process for boiling 18 large eggs is almost identical to the general guidelines, with just a few adjustments to ensure even cooking and a large enough pot:

Step 1: Preparation

Use a large pot to accommodate all 18 eggs in a single layer

Cover the eggs with cold water, ensuring they are submerged by about an inch

Step 2: Bring to a Boil

Place the pot on the stove over high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil

Reduce the heat to medium-high to maintain a gentle boil

Begin timing the cooking process

Step 3: Cooking Times

Desired DonenessRecommended Boiling Time Soft-boiled4-6 minutes Medium-boiled7-9 minutes Hard-boiled10-12 minutes

Once the desired time has passed, carefully drain the hot water and transfer the eggs to an ice water bath. Let them cool for about 5 minutes before peeling them.

Additional Tips

Boiling time can vary based on factors such as egg size and altitude. For best results, it's always a good idea to test one egg before peeling the rest. By following these guidelines, you'll be able to perfectly boil 18 eggs for your next gathering.

Conclusion

Whether you're preparing a large batch of eggs for a family gathering or just want to ensure you have perfectly boiled eggs for your daily routine, following these steps will ensure you're successful in the task.

Note: If you encounter any issues during the process, feel free to share them in the comments section below, and we'll do our best to assist you further.