Instant Pot: Hard-Boiled Eggs That Peel Easily

Notes

The science behind this method is simple: pressure cooking uses steam to cook eggs quickly and evenly, preventing the green ring around the yolk that can occur with overcooking. The natural pressure release followed by an ice bath halts the cooking instantly, making peeling a cinch. To troubleshoot, ensure you use fresh eggs, as older eggs peel more easily due to a higher pH level in the whites. Avoid overcrowding the pot to allow steam to circulate freely. For storage, keep peeled eggs in the fridge for up to a week, ensuring they're covered in water or sealed tightly to prevent drying out. Always handle the Instant Pot with care, especially when releasing steam.

Steps

1. 1 Place eggs in the bottom of the Instant Pot insert.
2. 2 Add 1 cup of water to the insert, ensuring eggs are not crowded.
3. 3 Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position.
4. 4 Select the Manual or Pressure Cook function and set the timer for 5 minutes at high pressure.
5. 5 Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes.
6. 6 Turn the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
7. 7 Carefully open the lid, using oven mitts to avoid burns.
8. 8 Transfer eggs to an ice bath for at least 10 minutes to stop the cooking process.
9. 9 Gently tap and roll each egg to crack the shell before peeling under running water.
10. 10 Peel eggs starting from the wider end for easier removal of the shell.
11. 11 Pat eggs dry with a clean towel before storing or serving.
12. 12 Check for any missed shell fragments before eating or using in recipes.