The Best Way to Poach an Egg on the Stove So They’re Perfect Every Time

Poached eggs are a brunch staple for a reason; they’re delicious and reveal a perfectly oozy yolk. The only problem with poached eggs is that they can be difficult to prepare. It’s so tempting to think that all you have to do is crack an egg into boiling water and voilà, your work is done. However, it’s a little bit more involved than that. Just ask Alton Brown. Here’s his method, which we’ve found to be foolproof, plus a few of our additional tips:

  1. To start, the best method to poach an egg is not in the oven or microwave — it’s on the stovetop. Before you do anything else, bring a saucepan with two inches of water to a simmer. (Do not boil your water, as it will make it difficult to keep your egg’s shape.) Then, add one teaspoon of kosher salt and two teaspoons white vinegar.
  2. While you’re waiting for your water to come to a delicate simmer, crack a very fresh and very cold egg into a ramekin. Next comes the tricky part. Place the egg gently into the simmering water. There are two methods to do this so that your egg keeps the right shape.

Option 1: Hold a cookie cutter in the simmering water with a pair of tongs. Add your egg to the middle of the form.

Option 2: Swirl the water in a clockwise direction until it becomes a whirlpool. While the water is still spinning gently, add the egg. The whirlpool motion will keep it from getting those feathery tendrils.

  1. Once your egg hits the water, it should begin to cook immediately. If you want a really soft poached egg, leave it in the water for about two minutes. A more firm egg will take around four minutes. The timing can vary slightly based on the size of your egg.
  2. When your egg is ready, remove it from the water with a slotted spoon and let it drip dry over the pot.
  3. Serve the egg on toast with a sprinkle of salt and cracked black pepper.

Tell us what other egg tips you want to learn about by tagging us on Twitter @BritandCo.

(Photos via Debby Lewis-Harrison / Getty Images)

Starting your day with the right foods can make a huge difference in how you feel – that rings especially true if you’re fighting any kind of inflammation. Instead of sugary cereals or processed pastries (though they can be convenient), opt for these delicious anti-inflammatory breakfast ideas that’ll help keep your body balanced. These anti-inflammatory breakfast ideas are packed with nutrients that’ll undoubtedly leave you feeling your best – with no flare-ups in sight!

Scroll on to discover 12 amazing anti-inflammatory breakfast ideas that’ll make you excited to wake up and chow down!

Brit + Co

Layered Berry Smoothie

Packed with three kinds of berries high in antioxidants, this beautifully layered smoothie will totally soothe any inflamed feelings you have. (via Brit + Co)

Rebecca Firsker

Citrusy Chickpea Shakshuka

This protein-rich breakfast recipe is made with real, whole ingredients, making it a stunning savory option in the morning. (via Rebecca Firsker for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

3-Ingredient Protein Pancakes

When it comes to anti-inflammatory breakfast ideas, the simpler = the better. Luckily, these filling pancakes are made with just three ingredients and come together so quick. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Parfait Popsicles

Meal preppers will adore this easy parfait popsicle recipe that you can easily customize with your fave anti-inflammatory fruits! You could even enjoy this as a nice, refreshing snack outside of breakfast time. (via Brit + Co)

The Real Food Dietitians

Sweet Potato Hash

This hash is balanced well with plenty of protein, veggies, and fiber from the sweet potato. It's a hearty helping that'll definitely leave you feeling satisfied and ready to tackle the day, sans inflammation. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Vanilla and Bean

Overnight Turmeric Chia Oats

Turmeric is famously known for its anti-inflammatory benefits – sneak some into these yummy chia and oat bowls, and thanks to the help of more spices and maple syrup, you won't even notice it's there! (via Vanilla and Bean)

Crowded Kitchen

Savory Quinoa Breakfast Bowls

A good balance of grains and veg can be found in these aesthetically-pleasing breakfast bowls, which gives you a great source of energy to go off of all morning long. (via Crowded Kitchen)

Clean Cuisine

Blueberry Muffin Chia Pudding

These chia puddings taste just like blueberry muffins, but are a bit healthier for you than your typical baked good. The chia seeds supply a beneficial amount of not only fiber, but protein, so you feel full after eating a serving. Yum! (via Clean Cuisine)

Feel Good Foodie

Cottage Cheese Bowls

Cottage cheese FTW! It's one of our favorite underrated protein sources, and can easily be customized to pair with either savory or sweet flavors. For a savory bowl, add some tomatoes, sweet potatoes, or avocado. For sweet, opt for berries, honey, peanut butter, and granola! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Averie Cooks

Deep Dish Mixed Berry Skillet Pancake

Forget flippin' pancakes and all the time it takes to make 'em – this baked skillet pancake is just as tasty and way more convenient, especially if you're big on meal prepping. The added berries qualify it for some great anti-inflammatory benefits, thanks to the abundance of antioxidants. (via Averie Cooks)

The Original Dish

Herb Ricotta Omelets with Chickpeas & Mushrooms

Veggies at the table are a must if you want to craft a savory anti-inflammatory breakfast. (via The Original Dish)

Kathryn's Kitchen

Banana Spinach Muffins

These sweet muffins hide quite a bit of spinach in each serving, a leafy green that helps fight inflammation with ease. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

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It's almost time to return to Cousins! The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 is coming this summer, and Prime Video just gave us a first official look at Belly, Jeremiah, and Conrad. The new episodes will open at the end of Belly's freshman year of college, and in addition to seeing the evolution of our favorite characters, author and co-showrunner Jenny Han says "there are going to be surprises" in the final season. Eek!

Here's your first look at Lola Tung, Gavin Casalegno, and Christopher Briney in The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3, coming to Prime Video July 2025!


Jenny Han says 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' fans are in for a few surprises.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

"There are the things that [fans] know and then there are things they think they know, and then there's going to be, hopefully, things that surprise them," Jenny Han tells Entertainment Weekly. Listen, I am a very proud member of Team Conrad, and seeing how cozy Belly and Jeremiah are in these pics (not to mention the set leak that's definitely not in the third book), I'm starting to wonder if Prime Video is teasing I should switch teams.

But no matter which team you're on, Lola Tung promises the season won't let you down.

Team #JellyFish will get their time this season.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

"The one thing I've always admired about Jenny is that every season and every decision about what's coming next is purely to serve the story," Lola says. "She's never going to do anything that doesn't make sense for the story. It's all about this beautiful world she's created and giving the fans something really, really special and giving us something really special to work with."

And that includes some sweet moments which Jeremiah and Belly, who "are, at their core, best friends," Lola adds. "That relationship is something that's so special and so unique to them, so it's exciting to see this season and how their relationship blossoms."

And 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' images also feature Conrad.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

But don't worry Conrad fans, we also get a look at the elder Fisher brother who "we know that he went to Stanford, and so he's continuing on his journey to become a doctor, as you can see from that white coat," Jenny says. "I think people won't be surprised to see that."

Keep reading for more images from The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3!

Erika Doss/Prime Video

Jenny Han also teases this image is actually a flashback, "so do with that what you will." BRB, I'm off dreaming of a beach vacation. I also can't help but point out the warm color grade of this season! The golden look makes everything feel warmer and more magical — and offers a youthful glow as Belly gets older.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

But for those of us who care more about Steven and Taylor (Sean Kaufman and Rain Spencer) than the main love triangle, we got this single crumb from the new images. And I'm more than happy about it, thank you very much.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

Belly (Lola Tung) gets cozy on campus in a hoodie and sunglasses.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

And Belly and Jeremiah (Gavin Casalegno) get cozy with each other at a party.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

But they work as hard as they play! I have this exact outfit Belly's wearing, and you best believe I'm adding it into my fashion rotation.

How many episodes will The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 have?

Erika Doss/Prime Video

Great news! The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 will have 11 episodes instead of 7 or 8 like seasons 1 and 2 did. Stay tuned for the official release schedule.

Who's in the cast?

Prime Video

The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 cast features all your favorites:

  • Lola Tung as Belly Conklin: a beach-loving volleyball player who's always dreaming of summer.
  • Christopher Briney as Conrad Fisher: Belly and Steven's lifelong friend who Belly's always had a crush on.
  • Gavin Casalegno as Jeremiah Fisher: Conrad's sunny younger brother.
  • Sean Kaufman as Steven Conklin: Belly's older brother.
  • Rain Spencer as Taylor Jewel: Belly's best friend.
  • Jackie Chungas Laurel Park: Belly and Steven's mom and Susannah Fisher's best friend.

Meet The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 Cast before the new episodes air on Prime Video this July!

I'm currently obsessed with kitchen banquettes and on a mission to find the perfect nook for one in my own space. Right now, we have an IKEA island with two wooden stools, which is great for busy mornings before I rush my kiddo to school. But when guests come over or we want to slow down and get cozy on weekend mornings, stools just don’t cut it. Enter banquettes: the kitchen trend everyone’s loving, and for good reason. They create a relaxed, inviting space (the ultimate “stay a while” vibe) and come in styles to suit any aesthetic, from cottage to modern. Here are ones from West Elm, Pottery Barn, McGee & Co., Target and more that I'm eyeing right now, plus cool custom inspiration!

Scroll to see the 15 gorgeous kitchen banquette designs we love right now!

West Elm

West Elm Novak Banquette

This sleek, curved unit offers customizable designs to perfectly fit your space — whether compact or spacious. With its vertical tufted backrest, it gives off a subtle '60s Bond-era sophistication. Plus, you can choose from a wide range of fabrics and even add built-in power to charge your devices before starting, or ending, the day!

Studio McGee

McGee & Co. Olivier Slipcover Dining Bench

Talk about comfort — this slipcovered dining bench has cushions filled with a dreamy feather-and-down blend, making every meal feel extra cozy. Plus, the linen cover gives it that perfect mix of laid-back and refined style.

Target

Threshold Cora Dining Banquette

This budget-friendly banquette from Target features a sturdy wooden frame and upholstered fabric in a charming cottage stripe. The corner unit is a great space saver and the fabric complements a range of styles, from modern to farmhouse.

Serena & Lily

Serena & Lily Belgian Club Loveseat

This petite loveseat doubles as a space-saving banquette. With its gently rolled arms and inviting curves, it creates a cozy, relaxed spot for dining — perfect for lingering over a delicious meal.

West Elm

West Elm Shelter Storage Banquette

A banquette with built-in storage? Game changer. The pillow-soft seats make it a cozy spot to gather, while its modular design makes it perfect for most spaces. Bonus: it's made from sustainably sourced wood.

Pottery Barn

Pottery Barn Layton Upholstered Banquette

This banquette is the perfect mix of relaxed and refined, combining cozy upholstered seating with the rustic charm of exposed wood. It has a curved design (love) so you can make the most of your space, whether it's a breakfast nook or an open dining area — perfect for laid-back meals and long, cozy gatherings.

West Elm

West Elm Hargrove Banquette

This similar banquette is a fresh take on modern farmhouse style, or even coastal California design with its oak wood frame.

Williams-Sonoma

Williams-Sonoma Dining Upholstered Banquette

This customizable banquette in a French-inspired ticking is the perfect nook to sip coffee in the morning, enjoy a casual lunch, or gather with friends for a laid-back dinner. Plus, its space-saving design means you get extra seating without taking up too much room!

Banquette Inspiration

Cordonné Paint

Cordonné Príncipe Paint

I adore this built-in curvy banquette with a pop-of-red cushion. It really feels so French and lovely. The checkered floor is another detail that charms the space. The pretty green paint color ties it all together!

Lulu & Georgia

Lulu & Georgia Florent Dining Chair

Swooning over this floral upholstered banquette that isn't afraid to show its curves. Paired with these cute wavy-back chairs, this setup is divine in my book.

Nickey Kehoe

Nickey Kehoe Banquette Inspiration

A rich, reddish leather in a sleek design gives this piece a modern twist on a traditional look.

The LifeStyledCo

The LifeStyledCo Kian Dining Chair

I love how this banquette wraps around both sides, creating plenty of space to gather. Paired with the Kian dining chair and a pile of cozy pillows, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a sunny breakfast with your favorite people.

AYR Barns

AYR Barns Coates Dining Table

A reclaimed pine table paired with a tufted upholstered banquette strikes the perfect balance between rustic charm and refined elegance — an elevated look I absolutely love.

Le Maé

Le Maé Roxie Dining Table

This geometric table pairs beautifully with the corner banquette, which features a unique fluted wood detail at the base. Not only does the banquette maximize seating in a cozy, space-saving way, but it also adds a stylish focal point that elevates the entire dining area.

Brook & Lou

Brook & Lou Sloane Chandelier

This wood-framed banquette is a refined take on the classic cottage-style design, bringing warmth and charm with an elevated touch. Paired with a bold natural-fiber chandelier and cottage-inspired plates on the wall, it creates a cozy-yet-stylish dining nook that I admire.

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1923 season 2 premieres on Paramount+ February 23, and Michelle Randolph (who plays Elizabeth Dutton in the cast) is "so excited" for you to watch the new episodes — and she's been keeping up with all your fan theories!

"There are some crazy ones. I feel like the biggest fan theory thing is the family tree," she tells Brit + Co exclusively. "I've seen many different family trees and so it's like, 'OK, which one's accurate?' I actually drew my own at one point."

Here's what Michelle Randolph had to say about 1923 season 2, and the Dutton family tree, in Brit + Co's exclusive 1923 interview.

Michelle Randolph teases '1923' season 2 finally gives us answers to the Dutton family tree.

By the end of season 2, Michelle Randolph says "we might be able to fill in some blanks" in the Dutton family tree, which is a very hot topic for internet users! "I had to make my own [family tree] because all of the ones I saw on the internet were like — every single one was different. I was like 'I'm confused.'"

The Dutton family is made up of incredible cast members like Brandon Sklenar, Harrison Ford, and Helen Mirren, and Michelle reveals that the cast are just as close as their characters.

"There's a giant group chat called Giddy Up, which started during cowboy camp of season one," she says. "A cute little name, and I think I mean we all were on location in Montana and all in the same hotel, and we would get dinners after [filming], so I think even though our characters are very different and in different story lines like we all really did bond, which was really helpful to have each other throughout the chaos of of shooting a show."

The actress also says Elizabeth would connect with her 'Landman' character Ainsley.

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

And if you're a tried and true Taylor Sheridan fan, you've probably picked up on the fact that Michelle isn't just in 1923 — she also has a starring role as Ainsley Norris in Landman! But would Elizabeth and Ainsley get along if they met in an alternate universe?

"That would be a fun thing to witness. I think they would," she says. "They're very different, but the similarities between them is they're both young women who are finding their place in this world and I think that they both actually look at the world through very bright eyes and have a lot of hope, which is an interesting correlation between the two of them. I think Elizabeth has gone through so much more than Ainsley obviously, so there might be a difference there, but I think they would get along."

Check out the 8 Compelling Historical Fiction Books For 1923 Lovers and read our interview with Julia Schlaepfer where she teases the Spencer and Alex's future.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. And this post has been updated.

Leaders in the matcha industry are predicting a matcha shortage this spring. Sparked by a huge surge in demand, it’s possible that your go-to drink could be affected.

Here’s everything you need to know about this season’s matcha shortage.

Nataliya Vaitkevich / PEXELS

Per The Japan Times, increased demand for matcha powder put an “unprecedented strain” on the tea industry last year, and the same effect is predicted to take place in 2025.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Japan saw a 185% increase in matcha production from 2010 to 2023 in order to keep up with demand from cafes and home baristas around the world, The Japan Timesreports.

Cup of Couple / PEXELS

Seeing that over half of Japan’s matcha is exported internationally, matcha lovers are looking toward the country for their green tea fix. Search interest for matcha has nearly quadrupled over the past 5 years, and it shows no sign of slowing down.

Olena Bohovyk / PEXELS

This year, mostly organic matcha strains will be affected by the shortage, though lower-grade varieties could face the same issues if consumers begin reaching for them in favor of organic offerings. While top-tier, organic strains like ceremonial-grade matcha are known for being sweeter and smoother, the lower-grade kinds like culinary-grade matcha are noticeably more bitter and don't have the same vibrant color.

Charlotte May / PEXELS

Matcha can only be harvested in the springtime, so though a shortage may be happening now, there’s hope for increased supply in the near future. This year’s harvest will start in April.

Polina Tankilevitch / PEXELS

Even though production will ramp up, Jason Eng of Kametani Tea in Japan, a company that produces matcha for beverage companies around the world, says: “This year will be an interesting one. We haven’t hit a point yet where we’re going to run out, but it’s going to be really tight this autumn – not just for us but for everybody. The demand is off the charts.”

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