Eggs are a classic staple for breakfast or brunch in the U.S. But have you ever been asked the question, “How do you want your eggs?” at an American restaurant? Knowing how to order your eggs the way you like them can make all the difference!

Here’s a quick guide to the common ways eggs are prepared and what those terms really mean:

Boiled Egg

A boiled egg literally means an egg cooked in boiling water. But in American terms, a hard-boiled egg is what we usually call a fully cooked egg with a firm yolk. Meanwhile, a soft-boiled egg has a runnier yolk.

Poached Egg

A poached egg is gently cooked in simmering water without its shell. This is the kind of egg you’ll find in the famous dish eggs Benedict—poached eggs topped with hollandaise sauce. It’s a personal favorite brunch dish!

Sunny Side Up / Fried Egg

A sunny side up egg and a fried egg are both cooked on one side only, leaving the yolk visible and usually runny. But if you’re asked whether you want your eggs over easy, over medium, or over hard, this refers to how cooked you want the yolk once the egg is flipped:

• Over hard = yolk fully cooked through
• Over easy = yolk still runny
• Over medium = yolk slightly set

Scrambled Egg

Scrambled eggs are eggs whisked and cooked until soft and fluffy — a very popular way to enjoy eggs.

Omelet

An omelet is simply eggs beaten and cooked flat, often filled with cheese, vegetables, or meat.

Now you’re ready to confidently order eggs like a local at your next American brunch!

Bon appétit!