How long to boil a perfect soft egg?

Four and a half minutes is the perfect length of time to boil an egg for a soft runny yolk

When you get the craving for a perfectly soft boiled egg, do you know how long to boil it for?

I was always told three minutes, but those of you who have tried this will know the results, a less than satisfactorily cooked egg, mostly with under-cooked white and very runny.

OK if raw is what your looking for in your perfect egg, but not for me. I want solid yet soft white and mostly runny yolk, preferably a darkish yellow in tone and smooth texture.

Five Minutes of boiling and the yolk is dry and brightish yellow,it's hard to spread on toast, and lacks flavour.

So I generally put a couple of medium sized eggs in a pot, and bring it to the boil, once bubbles are showing I lower the temperature and simmer for precisely 4 and a half minutes.

The perfect meal for a snack of lunch, breakfast or anything you wish to call it...