How to Boil an egg

The trick to making a perfect boiled egg is all in the timing. Follow these three steps and you can't fail.

Step 1: Half-fill a small saucepan with cold water. Add a good pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle boil over high heat.

Step 2: Eggs should be at room temperature (this reduces the risk of cracking). Using a large spoon, lower eggs, one at a time, into boiling water. Stir gently for 30 seconds (this helps to centre the yolks).

Step 3: Reduce heat to medium. For soft-boiled eggs, cook for 4 minutes. For semi-firm yolk and firm white, cook for 5 minutes. For hard-boiled eggs, cook for 8 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon.

How to Keep nuts fresh

You may think it's a nutty idea, but the best place to keep nuts is in the freezer!

Nuts contain a lot of oil and can become rancid if stored in the pantry.

Instead, place them in separate airtight containers or sealable plastic bags, then label, date and freeze for up to six months.

There's no need to thaw them before cooking - just use them straight from the freezer.