Cheese And Eggs: The Perfect Melty Combination

There are many types of cheese that can be added to scrambled eggs to enhance their flavour. The best time to add cheese to scrambled eggs is when they are almost cooked, as this allows the cheese to melt perfectly and highlights its flavour relative to the eggs and seasonings. The most popular cheese to add to scrambled eggs is cheddar, but other options include feta, goat, Edam, Gouda, Gruyère, Monterey Jack, and Swiss. When choosing a cheese to add to scrambled eggs, consider the desired flavour and texture, as well as the melting properties of the cheese. For a smoother melt, grate the cheese beforehand.

Timing for various types of cheeses

The timing for adding cheese to your scrambled eggs depends on the type of cheese you are using. Here is a guide to help you achieve the perfect melt:

• Finely grated or crumbled cheeses such as feta, goat cheese, and parmesan can be added right at the end, once your scrambled eggs have been removed from the heat. The residual heat from the eggs and the plate will be enough to melt these cheeses.
• Edam, Gouda, and Swiss cheeses should be added to the eggs when they are still being cooked but are just beginning to form curds.
• Cheddar and Monterey Jack are best added when the eggs are approximately 75% cooked.
• Blue cheese is best served as a crumble on the side, so diners can add as much as they like.
• Gruyère can be added at the end of cooking, and pairs well with caramelized onions.
• Provolone is best added when the eggs are finished cooking, and pairs well with olive salad, artichoke hearts, or a splash of tomato sauce.
• Asiago should be finely grated and beaten into the eggs before cooking.
• Ricotta can be used as a garnish or spread on toast, rather than being cooked into the eggs.

How to serve scrambled eggs

There are many ways to serve scrambled eggs, and the options are only limited by your imagination. Here are some ideas to get you started:

On toast

A classic way to serve scrambled eggs is on a slice of toasted bread. You can use any type of bread you like, but some popular options include sourdough, whole-grain, or a baguette. Toasting the bread will give it a nice crunch, and you can butter it or leave it plain. If you're feeling indulgent, you could even top your scrambled eggs on toast with a slice of melted cheese.

With sides

If you're looking for a more substantial meal, you can serve scrambled eggs with a variety of sides. Some ideas include:

• Sautéed vegetables
• Breakfast potatoes
• Bacon
• Sausage
• Fried tomatoes
• Mushrooms

In a sandwich

Scrambled eggs also make a great filling for a sandwich. You can use any type of bread you like, and add some cheese, vegetables, or meat to make it more filling. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even try a scrambled egg sandwich with a dash of hot sauce or ketchup.

In a wrap or tortilla

For a portable option, you can serve scrambled eggs in a wrap or tortilla. Simply fill the wrap with scrambled eggs and your choice of vegetables, meat, or cheese. You could also add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for extra flavour.

With cheese

Of course, one of the most popular ways to serve scrambled eggs is with cheese. You can choose from a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, feta, or goat cheese. Simply sprinkle the cheese over the scrambled eggs and let it melt, or mix it in while the eggs are still cooking.

With herbs

If you want to add some freshness to your scrambled eggs, you can serve them with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or basil. You can sprinkle the herbs on top of the eggs or mix them in for a more subtle flavour.

Other tips

When serving scrambled eggs, it's important to remember that they should be cooked low and slow. This will help ensure that they are nice and creamy. It's also best to use a rubber spatula to stir the eggs, as this will help prevent the non-stick surface of your pan from scratching. Finally, don't forget to season your scrambled eggs with salt and pepper to taste!

The best pan to use

When it comes to making scrambled eggs, the type of pan you use can make a big difference in the final result. Here are some tips and recommendations for choosing the best pan for your scrambled eggs:

Nonstick Pans

Nonstick pans are generally considered the best option for scrambled eggs. They are coated with a synthetic fluoropolymer that prevents food from sticking, making cleanup easier and reducing the risk of burning. Even with a nonstick pan, it is still recommended to use a small amount of butter or oil to prevent sticking and burning. However, be aware that nonstick pans typically have a shorter lifespan than other types of pans, and the coating may start to flake or chip over time.

Cast Iron Pans

Cast iron pans are not ideal for scrambled eggs due to their porous nature. The micro divots in the surface of the pan can latch onto the egg proteins, causing the eggs to stick and making them difficult to scramble. If you do choose to use a cast iron pan, it is important to season it well before use and ensure that it is properly preheated to reduce the chances of sticking.

Stainless Steel Pans

Stainless steel pans can be used for scrambled eggs, but they require more skill and attention to prevent sticking. It is crucial to preheat the pan adequately before adding the eggs. A simple trick to test if your pan is hot enough is to sprinkle a few drops of water onto the surface; if the water droplets dance and skitter across the pan, it's ready for your eggs. Keep in mind that stainless steel pans are prone to sticking and may require more fat (such as butter or oil) to create a buffer between the eggs and the pan.

Size and Maintenance

When choosing a pan for scrambled eggs, consider the number of servings you typically prepare. A smaller 8-inch pan is suitable for one to two servings, while a larger 10- to 12-inch pan is ideal for cooking for a larger group. Additionally, different materials require varying levels of maintenance. Cast iron and carbon steel pans, for example, need regular seasoning and handwashing to maintain their nonstick properties.

Recommendations

• Zwilling Non-Stick Frying Pan: This pan features even heat distribution and an easy-to-clean nonstick surface. It has a textured handle that stays cool during use and is oven-safe up to 300°F.
• Tramontina 10-Inch Nonstick Skillet: This affordable option (around $30) allows eggs to slip and slide across its nonstick surface with ease. It has a removable silicone grip and is dishwasher-safe.
• Lodge Cast Iron Skillet: If you prefer cast iron, this pre-seasoned skillet is a great choice. While cast iron can be prone to sticking, this pan is excellent for fried eggs and frittatas, and with continued use, it will only become more nonstick over time.
• Made In Cookware Nonstick Frying Pan: This award-winning pan combines 5-ply stainless steel construction with two layers of nonstick coating. It heats evenly and is durable, with a sturdy double-rivet handle that stays cool during stovetop cooking. It is oven-safe up to 500°F.

When to add seasoning

There are various opinions on when to add seasoning to scrambled eggs, with some chefs recommending seasoning before cooking, and others suggesting seasoning after.

Seasoning Before Cooking

In Spain, scrambled eggs are typically seasoned with salt and pepper before cooking. However, some chefs argue that the salt breaks down the proteins in the eggs, which can make them dry and fluffy. Pre-salting can also make the eggs appear watery, as the salt draws out the water from the eggs. On the other hand, pre-salting can help the eggs retain moisture and tenderness by acting as a buffer between the proteins in the eggs, preventing them from linking too tightly during cooking. This can result in softer, less watery scrambled eggs.

Seasoning After Cooking

Some chefs, like Gordon Ramsay, recommend seasoning scrambled eggs after cooking to avoid them becoming watery. However, this can be tricky as you want to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the eggs, and not just on top.

The Verdict

Ultimately, the decision of when to season your scrambled eggs is a matter of personal preference. Both methods have their pros and cons, and the overall effect of salting on the taste and texture of the eggs is fairly minor. So, feel free to experiment with both methods and see which one you prefer!

How to get fluffy eggs

There are several methods to achieve fluffy scrambled eggs, and most of them are easily achievable. Here are some tips and tricks to get that perfect, fluffy texture:

Use the Right Cheese

The type of cheese you use can make a big difference. Go for a semi-hard cheese that is freshly grated from a block. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, and mild cheddar cheese are great options as they melt quickly and have a creamy texture. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it contains an anti-caking agent that can affect the fluffiness of your eggs.

Add Milk or Cream

Adding a small amount of milk or heavy cream to your eggs can create a rich, velvety texture and fluffy curds. The extra liquid also helps the eggs cook more slowly, resulting in tender scrambled eggs. However, be careful not to add too much liquid, as it can make your eggs watery.

Whisk Vigorously

Whisking your eggs vigorously for at least a minute helps incorporate air into the mixture, creating fluffy scrambled eggs. You can use a fork or a whisk for this step. If you're making a large batch, consider using the whisk attachment of an immersion blender to speed up the process.

Use Butter

Cooking your eggs in butter not only adds flavour but also helps create fluffy eggs. Make sure to melt the butter until it begins to foam before adding your eggs. If you don't have butter, you can use oil, but butter is the preferred option for fluffier eggs.

Don't Overcook

One of the most important tips for fluffy eggs is to avoid overcooking them. Stop cooking when the eggs are still a bit wet, as they will continue to cook even after removing them from the heat. The entire cooking process should take no more than 3 to 5 minutes.

Use a Non-Stick Pan

Using a non-stick pan makes it easier to scramble your eggs without having them stick to the pan. It also helps prevent overcooking and makes clean-up a breeze.

Seasoning

While not directly related to fluffiness, seasoning your eggs with salt and pepper is crucial to enhancing their flavour. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, and consider adding fresh herbs like chives or parsley for an extra flavour boost.

Step-by-Step Guide

Here's a quick step-by-step guide to putting these tips into practice:

• Whisk together your eggs, a small amount of milk or cream, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined.
• In a separate bowl, grate your cheese of choice.
• Heat butter in a non-stick pan over medium heat until melted and foamy.
• Pour the egg mixture into the pan and let it cook undisturbed for about 30 seconds.
• Sprinkle the cheese on top of the eggs.
• Use a spatula to gently push the eggs from the edges of the pan to the centre, forming soft curds. Alternate between letting the eggs rest and pushing/folding them.
• Continue cooking until the eggs are no longer runny and the cheese is melted.
• Remove from heat and serve immediately. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.

Frequently asked questions