The egg, in its many forms, is one of the most widely consumed foods in the world. Whether fried, scrambled or boiled, its flavor and versatility make it an essential ingredient in many cuisines. However, frying an egg without it sticking to the pan can be a real challenge, especially if the pan is not non-stick. Fortunately, there is a simple and effective trick to prevent fried eggs from sticking to the pan: use wheat flour.
The trick is to add a thin layer of wheat flour over the oil in the pan before placing the egg. The flour acts as a barrier between the egg white and the hot surface, preventing it from sticking and allowing for even cooking. Other methods can be found on the Internet, such as using silicone utensils to remove the egg without breaking it or covering the pan with waxed paper, but this one works best.
The trick to preventing fried eggs from sticking to the pan
When putting this trick into practice, the first thing to do is to heat the pan over a medium heat. It is very important that it is hot enough for the egg to cook properly without burning. Then add a small amount of oil, just enough to cover the base of the pan. The oil helps to distribute the heat evenly and prevents the flour from burning too quickly.
Then sprinkle a light layer of wheat flour over the oil. It is important that the flour is evenly distributed so that the egg does not stick. Carefully place the egg on the flour and avoid moving it for the first few minutes. Finally, remove the egg with a spatula and, voilà!, there is no sticky residue left in the pan.
A very simple trick to prevent fried eggs from sticking to the pan and ensuring they are perfectly golden. However, you have to be careful because if the flour gets too hot it can darken and alter the flavour of the egg. It is also important not to overdo the flour as this could affect the flavour.
An extra tip: Use a minimal amount of flour and make sure the pan is really hot before adding the egg. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using olive or coconut oil instead of vegetable oil.
Useful tips
To achieve the perfect fried egg, it is essential to follow a series of steps that guarantee a delicious result. First of all, it is important to choose a suitable frying pan, preferably non-stick or cast iron, as this will prevent the egg from sticking. In addition, using a good olive oil or butter not only adds flavor, but also helps to achieve a crispy texture around the edges.
On the other hand, temperature plays a key role, because if the heat is too high, the white can burn while the yolk remains raw; therefore, it is advisable to cook over medium-low heat. It is also advisable to break the egg in a separate container before adding it to the pan, which allows you to check its freshness and prevent pieces of shell from falling in.
Likewise, covering the pan with a lid helps the heat to circulate evenly and cook the white without the need to turn the egg. Finally, adding a pinch of salt and pepper to taste enhances the flavor, resulting in the perfect fried egg, with golden edges and a soft, creamy yolk.
Health benefits
Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, as well as containing essential vitamins such as B12, D and A, and minerals such as iron and zinc. They are also rich in choline, a key nutrient for brain health and cell development.
However, when frying eggs, it is important to consider the type of fat used. Extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil are healthier options than saturated fats. In addition, cooking over medium-low heat helps to preserve nutrients and prevents the formation of harmful compounds.
Among the health benefits, fried eggs can contribute to satiety, which helps with weight control. They also promote eye health, thanks to the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect against diseases such as macular degeneration. Eggs also support muscle and bone health due to their protein and vitamin D content.
However, people with high cholesterol or cardiovascular disease should moderate their consumption and opt for healthier cooking methods, such as poaching or boiling eggs. In conclusion, fried eggs can form part of a balanced diet if they are consumed in moderation and accompanied by healthy foods, such as vegetables or lean meats.
