A Chef Shares How to Make the Best Scrambled Eggs
A top chef shares the secret to a spectacular scramble
Scrambled eggs are a breakfast classic, but elevating them from ordinary to extraordinary takes just a few thoughtful steps. Mon Ami Gabi – Lincoln Park Executive Chef David Koehn offers five essential steps that he and the French bistro’s culinary team use to achieve the creamiest, most luxurious scrambled eggs, every time.
1. Start with the Best Ingredients
To ensure the highest quality, Mon Ami Gabi sources its eggs from local producers like Slagel Farms and incorporates seasonal produce from partners such as Closed Loop Farms in Chicago and farmers markets like Green City Market. Supporting local farms not only enhances the flavor of your dish but also ensures you’re cooking with the freshest, most sustainable ingredients available.
Learn more about responsible sourcing and sustainability efforts across Lettuce restaurants.
2. Salt Your Egg Game
According to Chef David, the next secret to getting the best scrambled eggs starts long before they hit the pan: “A lot of people will season as they’re making the eggs or after they’re done, but really, to get the creamiest eggs possible, you want to make sure you salt them at least 15 minutes ahead of time.” This game-changing process helps break down the proteins, resulting in a softer texture and a richer flavor. “If you’re using high-quality eggs, whisk and salt them and you’ll actually see the color change to a rich, bright orange as they sit,” he says.
3. Turn Up the Heat
For perfectly scrambled eggs, Chef David recommends a hotter pan. Add a tablespoon of butter and wait until it’s foaming—this ensures the butter is hot enough to cook the eggs quickly without overcooking them. “Once the eggs hit the pan, use a rubber spatula to scramble continuously to create small, tender curds, which is a French technique. Ideally, the process should take no more than 30 to 45 seconds. The key here is to cook quickly but stop while the eggs are still slightly wet for the creamiest finish,” he says.
4. Add a Luxe Touch
Take your scrambled eggs to the next level with unexpected or decadent additions. “At Mon Ami Gabi, we infuse our scramble with truffle, a luxurious ingredient that enhances the eggs’ natural richness,” says Chef David. Whether it’s truffle oil, truffle shavings, or another premium ingredient like caviar, such additions transform simple scrambled eggs into a gourmet experience. Or, for a simple but perfect final touch, garnish with crunchy Maldon salt and a medley of fresh herbs like parsley, chervil, chives, and tarragon to not only add flavor, but bring a vibrant pop of color to your dish.
Try giving your eggs a Mexican-style spin with a topping of Tallboy Taco’s recipe for Pico de Gallo or El Segundo Sol’s Signature Guacamole.
5. Get Toasty
“At Mon Ami Gabi, we serve our scrambled eggs with small, circular pieces of brioche toast. The buttery, slightly sweet brioche is the ideal vessel for scooping up creamy scrambled eggs topped with herbs and truffle,” says Chef David. So go ahead and toast up some of your favorite bread to enjoy your perfectly prepared dish alongside!
Discover all the delicious brunch options at Lettuce restaurants near you.
