Every Friday, our editors select a question from our Facebook fans and answer it in this weekly column. This week, we show you how to peel eggs.
Facebook user Kendra Shaw Noll: Why can't I keep hard-boiled eggs from sticking to the shell when I peel them?
One reason might be the eggs are overcooked. Overcooking makes it a lot harder to peel eggs, because the thin membrane sticks to the whites. Another reason might be the way you peel them. There are so many different ways to peel an egg. Most people just start at either of the ends and pick at the shell until it's all done. The problem with this method is that it takes a long time and you almost always gouge out the whites. Here are some of the methods that you can try. See what works best for you.
Shatter-and-Ribbon Method
One of our favorite methods to peel an egg is as follows: First, crack the shell all over. Crack and roll the egg on the kitchen counter, or crack the eggs by shaking them in the pan they were cooked in. Next, start peeling at one end, preferably the end with the air pocket, and then pull the shell off in one long ribbon. It's one of the best and easiest methods. (Watch the video here.)
Slice-and-Scoop Method
There's another easy way to peel eggs that doesn't involve peeling them at all. Use a sharp knife to cut the boiled egg in half lengthwise. Then use a spoon to scoop the egg half from the shell. Now you're ready to eat the eggs or make deviled eggs.
Peel-and-Blow Method
This is a quite hilarious method (watch the video below.) You start by peeling only the ends, then you put the egg to your mouth and blow it out from the shell. It's a pretty impressive trick. Plus it's fast. But your guests might not be thrilled to know your saliva might be in the deviled eggs appetizer.
Whichever method you choose, be sure not to overcook your eggs. You don't want the green ring around the yolk. To boil the perfect eggs, place them in a pot of cold water. Bring to a boil, cover with the lid, and set aside for 14 minutes. Then you're ready to peel. Voila! The perfect eggs.
Learn a fun new way to peel hard-boiled eggs.