More than just food, soft-boiled eggs are a morning ritual eagerly sought after by Singaporeans. While this dish is common in many countries, in the Lion City these tender eggs are typically served alongside other local staples such as kaya toast (toast with kaya jam), Kopi-O, or Teh-C. This combo set is a must-order at kopitiams (traditional coffee shops) found on almost every corner of Singapore.

Unlike regular soft-boiled eggs, the texture is cream-like: the whites are soft and slightly runny, while the yolk is thick and molten. Light yet savory, this dish also offers a complete nutritional package to fuel the morning.

Recently, this cooking method has gone viral on social media and is being tried by many people at home. Although it looks simple, it actually requires a specific technique. That’s why not everyone succeeds in achieving the perfect consistency on the first try.

Served a bit differently, soft-boiled eggs can also be found at Bangladeshi noodle eateries in Medan, where they are known as egg pudding. Thanks to their easy digestibility and rich nutrients, these eggs are often chosen as a side dish for people who are unwell. However, make sure the eggs come from trusted farms and are properly handled and stored to minimize the risk of bacteria such as Salmonella.

Curious to try it yourself? Let’s take a look at the recipe below!

Singapore Kopitiam–Style Soft-Boiled Eggs Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 eggs (room temperature, not straight from the refrigerator)

• Boiling hot water (enough to fully submerge the eggs)

• Soy sauce

• Ground white pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Bring water to a boil in a pot. Once boiling, turn off the heat.

2. Gently lower the eggs into the hot water using a spoon to prevent cracking.

3. Cover the pot with a lid or plate and let the eggs sit for 6–7 minutes, until the whites begin to lightly set while the yolks remain soft and slightly runny.

4. When time is up, remove the eggs and immediately rinse or soak them in cold water. This stops the cooking process and preserves the tender texture.

5. Crack the eggs into a small bowl. Add a splash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of white pepper. Gently stir.

6. The eggs are ready to enjoy—sip them with a spoon or use them as a dip for toast, just like a classic kopitiam breakfast.