How to Poach an Egg        
  • Start with cold eggs—they hold together better.
  • Use a fairly deep pot.
  • Bring the water to just a simmer, and add a little vinegar—about a tablespoon. You can use any kind of vinegar, but you'll probably taste a little bit of it, so use a vinegar you like and that tastes good.
  • Lower egg, in a cup, right to the surface of the water and gradually slide it in. The white will immediately set. If you're using a shallower pan, make sure to sweep under the egg with a spoon so it doesn't stick to the bottom.
  • If you're cooking a lot of poached eggs, you can drop them into ice water to stop the cooking. When it's time to serve, simply drop them back in the simmering water before plating.