Ingredients
- Eggs: Naturally, eggs are the star of the show. For the best scrambled eggs, opt for fresh, high-quality eggs. Free-range or pasture-raised eggs often have richer yolks and a more vibrant flavor, which translates to a more flavorful and visually appealing dish. The size of the egg also matters. Large eggs are typically used in most recipes, providing a good balance of yolk and white. Using extra-large eggs will result in a richer, denser scrambled egg, while medium eggs might lead to a slightly lighter texture. Consider the freshness of your eggs – the fresher the egg, the better the texture and flavor will be. You can test egg freshness by placing them in a bowl of water; fresh eggs sink to the bottom, older eggs will float. While floating eggs are still safe to eat if they pass other freshness tests (smell and appearance), they might not produce the best scrambled eggs in terms of texture.
- Bread: Ah, the humble bread, the perfect companion to creamy scrambled eggs. The choice of bread is entirely personal and can significantly impact the overall experience. Here are some popular and delicious options:
- White Bread: Classic white bread toasts up beautifully, providing a crisp exterior and soft interior. It’s a familiar and comforting choice, especially for those who prefer a lighter, less assertive flavor. However, nutritionally, white bread is lower in fiber and nutrients compared to whole wheat options.
- Whole Wheat Bread: For a healthier and more flavorful option, whole wheat bread is an excellent choice. It offers a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that complements the richness of the eggs. Whole wheat bread is also packed with fiber, making it a more satisfying and nutritious breakfast option.
- Sourdough Bread: Sourdough bread brings a tangy and complex flavor to the table. Its slightly chewy texture and robust taste stand up well to the creamy eggs, creating a delightful contrast. Sourdough is also often easier to digest for some people due to the fermentation process.
- Brioche Bread: If you’re looking for a touch of indulgence, brioche bread is the way to go. Its rich, buttery flavor and soft, slightly sweet crumb toast to golden perfection, creating a luxurious base for your scrambled eggs.
- Multigrain Bread: Multigrain bread offers a hearty texture and a blend of flavors from various grains and seeds. It provides a good source of fiber and nutrients and adds a satisfying chewiness to your toast.
- Gluten-Free Bread: For those with gluten sensitivities, gluten-free bread options are readily available. The quality and taste of gluten-free bread have improved dramatically in recent years, offering delicious alternatives that toast well.
- Butter or Cooking Oil: Fat is essential for cooking scrambled eggs, contributing to their creamy texture and preventing them from sticking to the pan. Butter is a classic choice, imparting a rich, buttery flavor to the eggs. Unsalted butter is generally preferred, allowing you to control the saltiness of the dish. Alternatively, olive oil or avocado oil can be used for a healthier option with a slightly different flavor profile. Olive oil adds a subtle fruity note, while avocado oil is neutral in flavor and has a high smoke point, making it suitable for higher-heat cooking if desired (though low and slow is best for scrambled eggs). For toasting the bread, butter is again a classic choice, adding flavor and richness. However, you can also use olive oil or even dry toast the bread for a lighter option.
- Milk or Cream (Optional): Adding a splash of milk or cream to scrambled eggs is a common technique to enhance their creaminess and fluffiness. Whole milk adds richness and moisture, while cream creates an even more decadent and velvety texture. However, using milk or cream is entirely optional. Many chefs argue that perfectly scrambled eggs can be achieved with just eggs, butter, and seasoning. Experiment to see if you prefer scrambled eggs with or without dairy. For a dairy-free option, you could try a splash of plant-based milk like almond milk or oat milk, although these might alter the flavor and texture slightly.
- Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavor of the eggs and toast. Use good quality sea salt or kosher salt to enhance the taste of the eggs. Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and complexity. Seasoning should be done judiciously, starting with a small amount and adjusting to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but you can’t take it away.
- Optional Add-ins: While scrambled eggs and toast are delicious on their own, you can elevate them further with various add-ins. Consider these options to customize your breakfast:
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or Parmesan cheese can be added to the eggs while they are cooking for a cheesy, melty delight.
- Herbs: Freshly chopped chives, parsley, dill, or basil add a burst of freshness and flavor. Stir them into the eggs towards the end of cooking or sprinkle them on top as a garnish.
- Vegetables: Sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes can be incorporated into scrambled eggs for added flavor and nutrition. Sauté the vegetables before adding the eggs to ensure they are cooked through.
- Spices: A pinch of paprika, turmeric, cumin, or chili flakes can add warmth and depth of flavor to your scrambled eggs.
- Hot Sauce: For those who like a bit of heat, a dash of your favorite hot sauce can add a spicy kick.
Instructions
- Crack the Eggs: In a medium bowl, gently crack the eggs. For creamy scrambled eggs, use 2-3 large eggs per person. Avoid cracking the eggs directly into the pan, as this makes it harder to remove any shell fragments and evenly whisk the eggs.
- Whisk the Eggs (Optional Milk/Cream): Using a whisk or a fork, gently whisk the eggs until the yolks and whites are just combined. Avoid over-whisking, as this can incorporate too much air and result in tougher scrambled eggs. If using milk or cream, add a tablespoon or two per two eggs at this stage and whisk to combine. The milk or cream adds moisture and richness, contributing to a creamier texture.
- Season the Eggs: Season the whisked eggs with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Be mindful of the salt, as too much can dry out the eggs. Start with a pinch and adjust as needed after cooking. You can also add any other desired spices or seasonings at this stage.
- Heat the Pan: Place a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. The key to creamy scrambled eggs is low and slow cooking. Allow the pan to heat up gradually. If the pan is too hot, the eggs will cook too quickly and become dry and rubbery.
- Add Butter or Oil: Once the pan is heated, add about a teaspoon of butter or oil per two eggs. Let the butter melt completely and coat the bottom of the pan evenly. If using oil, ensure it is shimmering but not smoking.
- Pour in the Eggs: Pour the whisked and seasoned eggs into the heated pan.
- Gentle Cooking and Stirring: Let the eggs cook undisturbed for about 30 seconds, or until the edges begin to set. Then, using a spatula, gently push the cooked egg from the edges towards the center, tilting the pan to allow the uncooked egg to flow underneath. Continue this process of gently pushing and tilting, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are mostly cooked but still slightly wet and glossy. The goal is to create soft, creamy curds, not dry, overcooked eggs. Avoid vigorous stirring, as this can break up the curds too much and result in a less desirable texture.
- Remove from Heat (Slightly Underdone): Take the pan off the heat just before the eggs reach your desired level of doneness. They will continue to cook from the residual heat of the pan. Slightly undercooked eggs are preferable, as they will retain their moisture and creaminess.
- Add Cheese or Herbs (Optional): If adding cheese, sprinkle it over the scrambled eggs while they are still in the pan and slightly wet. The residual heat will melt the cheese beautifully. If using fresh herbs, stir them in gently at this stage.
- Serve Immediately: Scrambled eggs are best served immediately while they are hot, creamy, and tender. Spoon the scrambled eggs onto plates and serve with toast.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 300-400
- Sugar: 2-5 grams
- Sodium: 200-400 mg
- Fat: 20-30 grams
- Saturated Fat: 7-10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25-35 grams
- Fiber: 2-5 grams
- Protein: 15-20 grams
- Cholesterol: 300-400 mg