Step-by-Step Preparation
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Preheat the pan:
Place the pan on low to medium heat. Add oil or butter and allow it to melt and spread evenly. The fat should be warm but not smoking.
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Crack the egg:
Break the egg into a small bowl to check for shell fragments and freshness.
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Slide the egg into the pan:
Gently pour the egg into the center of the pan. Avoid dropping it from a height to keep the yolk intact.
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Cook gently:
Let the egg cook undisturbed on low heat. The whites will begin to set from the edges inward. If desired, add a few drops of water to the edge of the pan and cover with a lid for 30–45 seconds to help the top white cook through.
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Season:
Sprinkle salt, pepper, or other seasonings near the end of cooking, just before removing the egg.
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Serve:
Once the whites are fully set but the yolk remains bright and runny, use a spatula to lift the egg gently onto a plate. Serve immediately for the best texture.