Expert guide > Expert guide to eggs

DIFFERENT types of EGGS

Not all eggs are the same - they're labelled according to the diet and living conditions of the hens that laid them. About 80 per cent of the eggs sold in Australia are cage eggs. You can find different types of eggs at Woolworths, including barn-laid, free-range, organic free-range, natural grain, omega-3 and vegetarian eggs. Here's a guide to what's available.

Cage eggs - These eggs are laid by hens that are permanently housed in a shed inside specially designed cages where their environment is constantly maintained.

Barn-laid eggs - The hens that lay these eggs are housed inside large sheds fitted with nests and perches. The hens are free to move around the shed.

Free-range eggs - These are laid by hens that roost and lay eggs in a shed, but are also free to wander outside on the farm during the day.

Organic free-range eggs - From accredited organic farms, these eggs are laid by hens that eat an organic diet and are free to roam around outside.

Natural grain eggs - The hens that lay these eggs are fed on a diet of grains and natural plant extracts.

Omega-3 eggs - These hens are given feed containing linseed, canola

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or fish oils to boost the omega-3 fats in their eggs.

Vegetarian eggs - These hens don't eat anything that's made from meat or fish.

Egg know-how

How to poach an egg:

1. Fill a deep-sided frying pan with cold water almost to the top, and bring the water to a simmer. While the water is simmering, crack an egg into a small ramekin.

2. Add 2 tablespoons white vinegar to the simmering water. Stir the water to make a whirlpool. Holding the ramekin close to the surface, carefully pour the egg into the whirlpool.

3. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 11/2-2 minutes for a soft yolk. Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the egg from the water. Hold over a plate lined with paper towel to drain.

How to scramble eggs:

1. Crack each egg into a small bowl and remove any blood spots or small pieces of shell. Transfer eggs to
a medium bowl. Add milk or cream. Use a fork to lightly whisk until just combined

2. Melt butter in pan over medium heat. Swirl to coat base. Pour in eggs. Cook for 30 seconds. Use a flat-edged wooden spoon to push from 1 side of the pan to the other in 4 different directions.

3. Repeat every 10 seconds to lift and fold egg. Cook for 2 minutes or until three-quarters of the mixture

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