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Why does fried egg become fluffy when squeezed with lemon?

To achieve a perfectly smooth and fluffy scrambled eggs, you need to add a dash of lemon juice. But why is that?

9 March, 2024

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When it comes to cooking, many housewives pass on a secret that adding lime juice to eggs can make the eggs delicious, fragrant, and soft. However, not everyone knows why squeezing lime into fried eggs will make them soft.

Why does squeezing lime into fried eggs make them soft?

Why does squeezing lime into fried eggs make them soft? (Photo: Food Network)

Adding a small amount of water when beating the eggs is a common trick to make fried eggs softer and more flavorful. Adding a little lime juice to the eggs when frying them is even better, helping your fried eggs turn golden, fragrant, and fluffy.

Why does squeezing lime into fried eggs make them soft? It is thanks to the acid that promotes the formation of air pockets in the egg protein, resulting in a desired smooth texture.

According to Wellandgood, Makenzie Bryson Jackson, a food scientist and product development director at Panaceutics Nutrition, explains that this happens for two reasons. First, it must be mentioned the chemical reaction between the protein in the egg and the acidity of lime juice.

When heated, the protein structure of the egg (60% in the egg white and 40% in the yolk) starts to change, coagulate, and create the 3D structure we call fried eggs.

Jackson said: “Beating the eggs beforehand with a little acid like lime juice can create a firmer structure to hold the air bubbles. Add a few drops of lime just before you put the eggs in the pan and you’re done – the acidity acts as a catalyst to create and support that perfect fluffy puffed layer.”

The second reason why lime water makes your fried eggs fluffy and soft is because of the water content in it. Just like adding water or milk, the liquid will slow down the beating process of the eggs.

The acid in lime stimulates the egg protein to form an airy structure, resulting in a smooth texture, making the fried eggs soft and delicious. (Photo: Mashed)

Jackson explained: “The water in lime water dilutes the egg proteins, so they don’t coagulate as quickly. Therefore, the cooking speed will be slower because more water evaporates, creating steam that makes the eggs softer and smoother.”

However, pay attention to the amount of lime water you use because the eggs tend to coagulate due to excessive acidity. You can also make the dish watery by adding too much liquid. To achieve a proper balance for a perfect fried egg, beat in ½ teaspoon of lime juice for 6 eggs.

“Too much acid will make the eggs clump and separate. Too much liquid can create a messy watery lump. The ideal amount is about half a teaspoon of lime juice for 6 eggs – try it in the next batch and be prepared to permanently change your breakfast formula,” Jackson said.

The health benefits of eggs

Eggs are a superfood. Here are the health benefits of eggs:

Boost brain health

According to The Health Site, eggs contain choline, which is an essential nutrient that most people don’t absorb enough of. It helps boost cognition and prevent neurological disorders.

Good for the heart

Maintaining cholesterol levels is essential for protecting heart health. By regulating cholesterol levels, eggs are considered a powerful ally for your heart.

Good for the eyes

Eggs are a good source of lutein and zeaxanthin. These antioxidants can reduce the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts, two of the most common eye diseases.

Regulate cholesterol levels

Eggs can increase HDL (high-density lipoprotein, commonly known as “good cholesterol”) and prevent the accumulation of LDL (low-density lipoprotein, also known as “bad cholesterol”), which can increase the risk of many diseases, according to The Health Site.

Weight loss assistance

Eggs are nutrient-rich, so they make you feel fuller and tend to reduce calorie intake, ultimately leading to weight loss. Therefore, eggs are also considered a “golden food” for effective weight loss.

Provide essential minerals

Minerals such as iron, zinc, and phosphorus are abundant in eggs and are essential for a healthy body.

Zinc maintains your immune system and turns food into energy. Iron is necessary for various things, especially for women due to menstruation. Eggs are also rich in iodine – a necessary component for producing thyroid hormones – and selenium.

According to VTC news

Frequently asked questions

The acidity in lime juice reacts with the egg proteins, creating a 3D structure that holds air bubbles. This process is enhanced by heat, forming the desired soft and smooth texture. Additionally, the water content in lime juice dilutes the proteins, slowing down the coagulation and cooking process, further contributing to the softness of the fried eggs.

Lime juice not only adds a unique flavor to the eggs but also enhances the color, making them golden and visually appealing. The acidity in lime juice acts as a catalyst, creating the perfect fluffy layer. It also stimulates the formation of an airy structure in the eggs, resulting in a smoother texture.

It is recommended to use half a teaspoon of lime juice for every 6 eggs. Using too much lime juice can cause the eggs to clump and separate due to excessive acidity. It may also make the dish watery and affect the texture negatively.

Eggs are considered a superfood and offer various health benefits. They boost brain health, support heart and eye health, regulate cholesterol levels, aid in weight loss, and provide essential minerals such as iron, zinc, and phosphorus.