spiegelei

Spiegelei is the German term for a fried egg. It is typically prepared by heating a small amount of fat in a frying pan and cracking an egg into the pan, allowing the whites to set while the yolk remains visible. The white is usually cooked until set and the yolk’s softness depends on preference. The dish can be served as a single fried egg or cooked on both sides (beidseitig gebraten), known in English as over-easy, over-medium, or over-well.

In German-speaking countries, Spiegelei is a common element of breakfast and is also served as a simple meal for lunch or dinner. It is frequently eaten with bread or toast and may accompany sausages, bacon, potatoes, or vegetables. Cooking fats vary; butter, oil, or a combination are used; some cooks cover the pan to finish cooking while the yolk stays runny.

Nutritionally, a fried egg provides high-quality protein and fats. A typical large egg contains around 70 calories, about 6 g of protein, and 5 g of fat. Salt and pepper are common seasonings, and additional toppings such as herbs, chili, or cheese may be added.