### Step 2: Gently Add the Eggs
1. Carefully place the eggs into the pot using a spoon or ladle to avoid cracking.
2. Bring the water to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
*Why Gentle Matters:* A rolling boil can jostle the eggs too much, increasing the risk of cracks.
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### Step 3: Cook the Eggs
1. Once the water reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
2. Let the eggs simmer for **9–12 minutes**, depending on how firm you like your yolks:
– **9 minutes:** Slightly soft yolk
– **10–11 minutes:** Firm but creamy yolk
– **12 minutes:** Fully set yolk
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### Step 4: Cool Down Quickly
1. Transfer the cooked eggs to an ice bath (a bowl filled with water and ice cubes). Let them sit for at least **5–10 minutes** until completely cool.
2. Cooling the eggs stops the cooking process and makes them easier to handle.
*Why It’s Important:* Skipping the ice bath can lead to overcooked yolks and makes peeling more difficult.
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### Step 5: Peel Like a Pro
1. Gently tap the wider end of the egg (where the air pocket is) on a hard surface to crack the shell.
2. Roll the egg gently between your hands to loosen the shell all around.
3. Start peeling from the wider end where the air pocket is—the shell should come off easily in large pieces thanks to the baking soda trick.
*Bonus Tip:* Peel under running water to help remove any tiny bits of shell.
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