RECIPE: POACHED EGGS

 Apologies to anyone who knows this already but eggs are amazing! 

Seriously. Not only are they packed with protein - great for after a workout for muscle repair - they also contain Vitamin A - for keeping skin healthy and helping you see in the dark; Vitamn D - important for maintaining bone density; and Selenium - a trace mineral used by the body to prevent cell damage.

Because I have been embarking in my first 'no-sugar' week, eggs have been a mainstay of my diet and eating a poached egg with rocket and granary bread* for lunch has made the cravings come 3pm so much easier.  This meal also makes me feel full right through the afternoon and does away with the bloated feeling that can come after I eat a chunky sandwich. There's something lovely about a warm mid-day meal too.

So how do you cook a poached egg? 

I know, I know - I can hear people screaming already - she's not going to teach us to poach an egg! - but some people don't know how to and so I'll stick some instructions in here.

Firstly get your pan of water in the hob and your eggs out of the fridge.  

Some people out white wine vinegar in the cooking water but I think it gives a funny taste so don't do that.  Just wait until little bubbles have coated the bottom if the pan and are just about to pop into a simmer then get a fork and stir the water lightly.  Lightly! Don't go made or your egg white will dissappear.  

Once you have a little swirl crack your egg into the water.  Don't worry if there isn't much action.  Let is gently simmer for about 2/3 mins and then lift out with a slotted spoon.  

The white should be nice and firm ad the yolk deliciously runny!  Perfick on toast with a handful of rocket or baby spinach but equally as good in some soups.

See?  Eggs are the best! 

Troubleshooting 

• if the egg sticks to the bottom if the pan your waters not hot enough.
• if the egg white separates into the water leaving naught but a yolk, the water is probably too hot or you've swirled your water with too much zeal! 

*I know technically processed bread isn't sugar free but as I am following Sarah Wilson's I Quit Sugar detox, week one sees us only cut down on suagr before going cold turkey in week 2! xx