Egg Cooking: Beyond the Surface
The culinary world is full of techniques that, at first glance, may seem identical. A clear example of this is the poached egg, the poached egg and the blanched egg. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, there are a number of nuances that can change the way we understand and prepare them.
What is Poached Egg?
The poached egg technique consists of cooking an egg without its shell in hot water, maintaining a temperature of between 85 and 90 degrees Celsius. To achieve this, the egg is carefully poured into the water, often creating a whirlpool that allows the white to envelop the yolk, resulting in a perfect texture: well-cooked white and runny yolk. The freshness of the egg is key to obtaining a good result, since a more compact white prevents unwanted disintegrations.
The Poached Egg: A French Touch
The term ‘poached egg’ comes from French and refers to the same technique as poaching. In French gastronomy, this method is highly valued, especially in haute cuisine. The process remains the same: cooking the egg in hot water without bringing it to the boil, allowing the white to set gently while the yolk remains creamy. Although the term is French, the technique and result are identical to poaching.
The Poached Egg: A Different Perspective
This is where confusion can arise. In certain contexts, ‘scalded egg’ can refer to a method that involves immersing the egg, still in its shell, in boiling water. This method is not common for preparing eggs per se, but is used to make peeling hard-boiled eggs easier. However, in many Spanish-speaking countries, the term is used synonymously with poached egg, which can lead to misunderstandings.
A Final Analysis: Understanding the Terms
In most cases, the terms ‘poached egg’ and ‘poached egg’ are practically equivalent, referring to an egg cooked without its shell in hot water. Meanwhile, ‘scalded egg’ can have a different meaning depending on the context. So, while these terms are often considered synonyms, it is essential to be aware of their differences in order to better navigate recipes and cooking techniques. In doing so, not only will you enrich your knowledge, but you can also enjoy a more conscious preparation of this staple food in many cultures around the globe.