If you're looking for more to do with your eggs this weekend than dip them in vegetable dye, you won't have any trouble finding inspiration. The humble egg is big in the food world, a high-protein addition that chefs and food influencers use as a finishing touch on salads and mains. But a classic boiled egg shouldn't be underestimated, whether you're dipping toast soldiers into them for breakfast, or hard boiling them to make on-trend pickled deviled eggs. Knowing the secret to the perfect boiled egg is fundamental, and Jamie Oliver's technique is foolproof. There's no better time to celebrate the almighty egg than in Spring, an ancient symbol of new life, rebirth and hope. 

How to boil an egg

• Make sure your eggs are at room temperature.

• Place eggs into salted boiling water for 5 1/2 minutes (soft boiled), 7 1/2 minutes (semi-soft boiled) or 11-12 minutes (hard boiled).

• Remove and serve immediately to avoid your egg cooking any further.

• Watch Jamie Oliver's video instructions  HERE

HG Cooking Essentials

A classic brand for a classic boiled egg, Pillivuyt has been making porcelain bakeware in France for the past 200 years.