The time to boil eggs depends on how you like the yolk and white cooked. Here are common timings for boiling large eggs starting from boiling water:

• 3-5 minutes for soft boiled eggs with runny or slightly set yolks and set whites
• 6 minutes for runny yolks with set whites
• 7-8 minutes for softly set yolks (good for Scotch eggs)
• 10 minutes for classic hard boiled eggs with fully set yolks and whites
• 11-12 minutes if you want very firm hard boiled eggs (some suggest up to 15 minutes but this can make yolks dry and whites rubbery)

A recommended method is to bring water to a boil first, then gently lower in fridge-cold eggs, reduce heat to a gentle boil, and start timing. After boiling, immediately cool the eggs in cold water to stop cooking and make peeling easier

. In summary:

Egg Doneness| Boiling Time (minutes)| Notes
---|---|---
Very soft (runny)| 3-5| Whites set, yolk runny
Soft boiled| 6-8| Yolk runny to softly set
Hard boiled| 10-12| Fully set yolk and white

This method ensures consistent results and easier peeling