What's the best way to tell when boiled eggs are done?

Question

I've heard a couple of ways, but they either didn't work for me, or I didn't do it right.

So what IS the best way to tell when a boiled egg is done?

Thanks! :)

Answer 1

Here's what I do.  Start eggs in cold water (cover them by at least an inch over the eggs).  Bring to a FULL boil.  Remove from heat and cover the pan.  For soft boiled, set for 4 minutes.  For hard boiled, set for 20 minutes.  Turns out perfect every time!

Answer 2

You can't really tell until you crack it open.  I put the eggs in a pan with cold water, bring it to a boil, then take it off the heat and cover for 20 minutes.  They usually end up perfect.

Answer 3

They crack and you see the egg white seeping out...any other way?

Answer 4

  This is going to sound crazy, but after I give you the answer, for your cesspool of information you'll never forget..... SPIN IT.......... Yes, try spinning a raw (uncooked) egg,  IT DOESN'T SPIN... maybe 1 or 2 turns, but thats all... Now , try spinning a hard boiled egg on the table... IT SPINS LIKE A TOP!!!!!! (good trick )  NOW GO TO FOOD CHANEL.COM... or AMERICA'S TEST KITCHEN.COM  and search  THE PERFECT HARD BOILED EGG