French-style scrambled eggs, often referred to as “soft-scrambled” eggs, are a luxurious and creamy twist on the traditional scrambled eggs. They’re gently cooked with butter and cream, resulting in a velvety texture. Here’s how to make French-style scrambled eggs:
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or crème fraîche
- Salt and white pepper (to taste)
- Fresh chives or herbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Crack and Whisk Eggs: Crack the eggs into a bowl, and whisk them gently with a fork or a whisk. Avoid over-beating; you want to combine the yolks and whites without excessive aeration.
- Season the Eggs: Season the eggs with a pinch of salt and a small amount of white pepper. White pepper is traditionally used in French-style scrambled eggs because it won’t leave visible specks.
- Preheat a Pan: Use a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast-iron pan. Heat it over low to medium-low heat. It’s crucial to use gentle heat to achieve creamy eggs.
- Add Butter: Add the unsalted butter to the pan and let it melt completely. You want the butter to be hot but not browned or sizzling.
- Pour in the Eggs: Pour the whisked eggs into the pan with the melted butter.
- Stir Constantly: Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, begin stirring the eggs gently but continuously. You’re aiming for slow and steady cooking, and the eggs should start to form small curds.
- Add Cream: After about 1-2 minutes of cooking, add the heavy cream or crème fraîche to the eggs. Continue stirring.
- Adjust Heat as Needed: If you notice the eggs are cooking too quickly or starting to stick, lower the heat. You want them to cook slowly and evenly.
- Cook to Desired Consistency: Keep stirring the eggs as they cook. They should be creamy and slightly runny when you remove them from the heat. The residual heat will continue to cook them.
- Remove from Heat: Just before the eggs reach your desired consistency (remember, they’ll continue to cook a bit off the heat), remove the pan from the stove. They should be creamy, soft, and slightly runny.
- Serve: Plate the French-style scrambled eggs immediately. Garnish with fresh chives or herbs if desired.
- Enjoy: Enjoy your luxurious and creamy French-style scrambled eggs with some buttered toast or a croissant for a delightful breakfast or brunch.
French-style scrambled eggs are all about patience and low heat. The result is a silky and velvety texture that’s a true treat for the palate.