Air-Fried Runny Eggs: Quick, Easy, And Delicious

Air fryers are a convenient way to make runny eggs without the hassle of using a stovetop. Not only are they quick and easy to make, but they also provide a healthier alternative to traditional fried eggs by reducing the amount of grease and oil used in the cooking process. Depending on your preference, you can make runny eggs in an air fryer by frying, soft-boiling, or poaching them.

Choosing the right pan for your air fryer

Material:

Look for pans made from heat-resistant materials like stainless steel, aluminum, or silicone. These materials can withstand the high temperatures generated by air fryers without warping or melting. They are durable, suitable for most types of cooking, and compatible with the safety guidelines of air fryers.

Non-Stick Coating:

Opt for pans with a non-stick coating, which makes food release easier and simplifies the cleaning process. Look for high-quality, PFOA-free non-stick surfaces that are durable and long-lasting.

Size and Shape:

Select a pan that fits comfortably inside your air fryer basket without touching the sides or obstructing air circulation. Consider the depth and shape of the pan based on the recipes you plan to prepare. Shallow pans are ideal for roasting vegetables and making frittatas, while deeper pans are perfect for casseroles and lasagnas.

Heat Resistance:

Ensure that the pan can handle the high temperatures typically reached in air fryers, which often go up to 400°F (200°C) or higher. This is crucial to prevent damage to your appliance and ensure safe cooking.

Compatibility:

Check that the pan is compatible with your specific air fryer model. Different brands and models may have varying sizes and shapes, so it's important to verify that the pan fits properly and doesn't obstruct airflow.

Versatility:

Choose a pan that offers versatility in your cooking. Some air fryer pans come with removable handles, allowing them to be used as baking dishes in the oven as well. This adds flexibility to your cooking methods.

Ease of Cleaning:

Consider pans that are dishwasher-safe for added convenience. While non-stick surfaces already make cleaning easier, always follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to prolong the lifespan of your pan.

Accessories and Sets:

Look for air fryer accessory sets specifically designed for your air fryer model. These sets often include various pans, racks, and molds that provide a wide range of cooking options and enhance your air frying experience.

By considering these factors, you can select the best pan for your air fryer that suits your cooking needs, ensures food safety, and delivers enjoyable and consistent results.

How to prep the pan

To prep the pan for making runny eggs in an air fryer, you'll need to take a few simple steps to ensure your eggs don't stick and that your pan is the right size for your air fryer.

First, you'll need to select the right pan for your air fryer. If you have a basket air fryer, you'll need to find a pan that fits inside. If you have an air fryer oven, you can cook the eggs directly on the tray. The Power XL is a universal air fryer size, but you should always measure your basket before ordering anything new. It's also a good idea to check what you already have at home to see if it will work.

If you're using a pan, cast iron is best as it retains heat well and cooks the eggs evenly. A mini cast-iron pan is perfect for this recipe. You can also use aluminium foil in your air fryer basket if you can't find a pan that fits. Cut the foil into 4x5-inch pieces and shape them into little "pans" for the eggs.

Once you've selected the right pan, the next step is to coat it with a non-aerosol cooking oil spray. This will prevent the eggs from sticking to the pan. Avocado oil spray is recommended, but olive oil, canola oil, or coconut oil will also work. Do not use aerosol cooking sprays as these can damage your air fryer.

Now that your pan is prepped, you're ready to crack the eggs into the pan and get cooking!

How to check for doneness

Checking for doneness is an important step in the process of making runny eggs in an air fryer. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure your eggs are cooked to perfection:

First, it is crucial to understand the desired level of doneness for runny eggs. For a runny yolk, you are aiming for a soft-boiled or "dippy" egg, where the whites are firm but the yolks remain rich and runny. This usually takes around 8-9 minutes in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C). However, the exact time may vary depending on your air fryer model and the size of your eggs, so it is important to keep an eye on them.

To check for doneness, remove the eggs from the air fryer and place them in a bowl of cold water or an ice bath. This step is crucial as it stops the cooking process and makes peeling easier. Leave the eggs in the ice bath for 2-3 minutes. This cooling period is essential for achieving the perfect texture and making the peeling process smoother. The cold water helps separate the egg membrane from the shell. Remember not to leave them in the ice bath for more than 3 minutes to prevent them from becoming too cold.

After the eggs have cooled, you can determine their doneness by gently tapping them on a hard surface to create small cracks all around the shell. Start peeling from the wider end, where there is usually an air pocket. The shell should come off easily, leaving you with a smooth, perfectly cooked egg.

If you find that your yolks are too runny or undercooked, increase the cooking time by a minute or two for your next batch. On the other hand, if your whites are too firm or rubbery, reduce the cooking time by a minute. Each air fryer is unique, so experimenting with timing will help you find the perfect balance for runny eggs.

Additionally, the temperature of the eggs before cooking can impact the cooking process. Room temperature eggs may cook slightly faster than refrigerated eggs. Therefore, if you are using room temperature eggs, consider reducing the cooking time by a minute or two to achieve the desired level of doneness.

How to cool and peel your eggs

To cool and peel your eggs, you'll first want to prepare an ice bath. Fill a bowl with ice and add cold water until the bowl is about three-quarters full. Then, gently place your cooked eggs into the ice bath and leave them to cool for around 15 minutes.

Once your eggs are cool, you can start to peel them. First, give your eggs a gentle crack on a hard surface, then roll them in your hands to loosen the shell. Start peeling at the wide end of the egg, where there's an air pocket that's easier to pry open. You can also try peeling your egg under cold running water, which can help the shell slide off. If you're still struggling, try using a small spoon to slip between the shell and the egg.

How to serve your runny eggs

Now that you've made your runny eggs in an air fryer, it's time to serve them! Here are some ideas on how to do that:

As a Topping

Add your runny eggs as a topping to your favourite dishes such as avocado toast, ramen, salads, or even a bowl of soup. You can also add them to your noodles or rice bowls.

As a Snack

Runny eggs don't have to be just for breakfast. You can enjoy them as a quick, protein-packed snack throughout the day.

Egg Dishes

Try serving your runny eggs as "dippy eggs" by placing them in egg holders, gently cracking the tops with a spoon, and removing the top shells. You can also make egg salad sandwiches, deviled eggs, or potato salad.

Breakfast

Of course, runny eggs are a classic breakfast option. Serve them with toast, hash browns, bacon, or sausage for a hearty morning meal. You can also add them to breakfast sandwiches or pair them with cinnamon rolls for a sweet and savoury combo.

Other Ideas

• Add them to a hummus breakfast bowl.
• Make a chorizo breakfast hash.
• Top off a sundried tomato, kale, and white bean skillet.
• Include them in roasted vegetable couscous.

Remember, the key to a good runny egg dish is to ensure that the whites are cooked but the yolks remain silky and runny. Enjoy experimenting with different serving ideas and finding your favourite ways to enjoy this delicious breakfast (or anytime!) treat.

Frequently asked questions