Do Restaurants Reheat Sunny Side Up Eggs? How Are They Fried in Bulk Using Only a Stove?
Most restaurants that specialize in breakfast meals utilize large open griddles for efficient cooking, particularly for eggs. However, the process of frying eggs in bulk and reheating them is not a common practice. In this article, we explore the typical breakfast cooking techniques and how restaurants manage to serve fresh, delicious sunny side up eggs to their patrons.
Breakfast Cooking at Restaurants
Restaurants that offer a variety of breakfast dishes often have large open griddles, which are ideal for cooking multiple eggs simultaneously. The griddle not only helps in frying eggs but also keeps pre-cooked sausage and bacon warm. Additionally, flat-top grills in breakfast-serving restaurants can accommodate a significant number of eggs, ensuring that the eggs are cooked quickly and efficiently.
Traditional Egg Cooking Techniques
The most common method for making scrambled eggs is to splat them onto the griddle, then use a flat spatula to gently move the eggs from side to side. This technique results in soft, tender, and moist scrambled eggs.
Historical Cooking Setup
Back when I had a larger kitchen and more space, I would utilize a large griddle that fit over two burners for special breakfast gatherings. This setup was perfect for producing a large number of eggs, sausages, and bacon.
The Practice of Frying Eggs in Bulk
In the United States, it is uncommon for restaurants to fry eggs in bulk and then reheat them. Eggs are generally cooked on demand to ensure freshness. The process of reheating eggs to retain their perfect texture is not practical in terms of time and effort, especially since cooking eggs only takes a few minutes.
Reheating Methods
One method that is occasionally used involves poaching eggs in advance, then rehydrating them in hot water just before serving. However, this method does not result in the desired soft yolk of a sunny side up egg. Another technique observed in some UK restaurants involves setting fried eggs on a hot plate or using heat lamps, but the yolk tends to become more set by the time they are served.
Proper Sunny Side Up Preparation
For a truly delicious sunny side up egg, it is best to cook it fresh and serve it immediately. Cooking the egg directly on the grill or griddle with the yolk exposed to the heat but not overdone ensures a perfectly tender white and a slightly runny yolk.
While some restaurants might employ methods to keep eggs warm, true breakfast chefs understand that the quality of the egg dish is paramount. Reheating can compromise texture and flavor, making it essential to cook eggs just before dining.
Exploring traditional cooking techniques and understanding the proper methods for preparing sunny side up eggs in a restaurant setting is crucial for any breakfast enthusiast or aspiring chef. Whether you're enjoying a homemade meal or a restaurant experience, the art of cooking the perfect sunny side up egg never loses its charm.