Pronunciation: [sˈɒft bˈɔ͡ɪl] (IPA) 
The spelling of "soft boil" can be a bit tricky due to its pronunciation. The correct way to say it is /sɒft bɔɪl/, with the first syllable rhyming with "off" and the second syllable with "oil". The word refers to boiling an egg just long enough that the white is set but the yolk remains runny. To achieve the perfect soft boil, bring a pot of water to a gentle simmer and cook your eggs for around 5-7 minutes. Enjoy!
The term "soft boil" refers to a cooking method typically used for eggs, where the eggs are cooked until the whites are fully set while the yolks remain partially liquid. It is a popular method for preparing eggs for breakfast or as an ingredient in various dishes.
To soft boil eggs, the eggs are gently placed in a pot of boiling water and cooked for a specific time to achieve the desired consistency. The cooking time varies depending on the size of the eggs and personal preference. Generally, it ranges from 4 to 6 minutes. The eggs are then removed from the boiling water and immediately placed in a bowl of cold water or under running cold water to stop the cooking process.
The resulting soft boiled eggs have a delicate and creamy texture, with a slightly runny yolk that is ideal for dipping toast or soldiers (thin strips of toast) into. Soft boiled eggs are often enjoyed as a simple breakfast dish, served with a sprinkle of salt and pepper or accompanied by toast or buttered bread.
The soft boil technique is also commonly used in dishes such as salads, sandwiches, and ramen. The partially liquid yolk adds richness and flavor to these dishes, complementing other ingredients and creating a harmonious balance of textures.
Soft boiled eggs are a popular choice for those who prefer a less-cooked yolk, offering a delicious alternative to hard-boiled or fried eggs.
The word "soft boil" is a compound term that combines the adjective "soft" with the verb "boil".
The adjective "soft" dates back to Old English as "sōfte", derived from the Proto-Germanic word "samftijaz". It has roots in the Proto-Indo-European base *samp-, meaning "quiet", "peaceful", or "gentle". Over time, "soft" has evolved to refer to something that is not hard or firm, but rather yielding, tender, or easily influenced.
The verb "boil" traces its origins to Middle English as "boilen", stemming from the Old English word "bylȳnan" and the Proto-Germanic word "būlināną". These Germanic roots are connected to the Proto-Indo-European base *bʰeu-, signifying "to swell" or "to bubble".
