Perfect Poached Eggs are firm on the outside with golden liquid centers.

A poached egg is cooked without the shell.

Before sliding the eggs into the pot, the water should be barely at a simmer.

This is where I used to get hung up and ruin several batches of poached eggs.

Use Cold Eggs: this will keep your timings consistent.

On a gas stove, you can simply turn off the burner, cover, and let it rest.