Chef shares the best method for cooking ‘velvety’ scrambled eggs
Gourmet enthusiasts and breakfast aficionados, get ready to elevate your scrambled eggs game to a whole new level of velvetiness and culinary nirvana! Renowned chef Julian Torres has shared his secret technique for creating the perfect, scrumptiously velvety scrambled eggs. The key, he reveals, lies in patience and the art of low-and-slow cooking.
Torres begins by emphasizing the importance of using fresh eggs; he suggests that for the best results, one should source the freshest possible eggs from a local farm or market. Second on his list is the selection of cookware: a non-stick pan is crucial in ensuring that the eggs do not stick or get overcooked during this gentle process.
Now onto the technique itself. Start by cracking the fresh eggs into a bowl—Torres recommends three large eggs for a single serving. Rather than whisking them vigorously, he encourages cooks to gently beat them just until the yolks and whites are blended, fostering a smoother texture in the final product.
For an added touch of creaminess, a dollop of crème fraîche can be incorporated into the beaten eggs. If crème fraîche is unavailable, a splash of whole milk or heavy cream will suffice. However, this step is entirely optional for those who prefer pure egg flavor.
Once your beaten eggs are ready, place your non-stick pan on the stove and set it to the lowest possible heat. Patience is paramount; good scrambled eggs cannot be rushed. Add a generous knob of butter to the pan—it should melt slowly without sizzling or browning—and wait for it to completely liquefy.
Then pour in the beaten eggs and let them sit for a moment without stirring. As they begin to set around the edges, use a spatula to slowly draw them towards the center. Repeat this process gently—the aim is not to scramble but rather coax the eggs into soft curds.
According to Torres, stirring continuously can cause toughening; by contrast, occasional folding allows layers and pockets of texture to develop within the curds. This technique takes about 15-20 minutes—a true exercise in culinary restraint.
The chef’s final piece of advice is on seasoning: salt should be added only towards the end of cooking as it can draw out moisture prematurely and hinder the velvety consistency we strive for. Once seasoned and nearly set (they should still be slightly runny), remove from heat—the residual warmth will finish cooking them through.
Serve immediately on warm plates with a light garnish, perhaps chives or finely chopped herbs, which complement without overpowering their delicate flavor and mouthfeel. There you have it—scrambled eggs transformed into an elegant dish that exudes simplicity yet whispers sophistication with each velvety bite. Bon appétit!