Creating perfect soft boiled eggs is straightforward when you follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Water: Fill a pot with enough water to cover the eggs by at least an inch. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Eggs: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and carefully lower the eggs into the pot using a slotted spoon.
3. Timing: Set a timer for 6-8 minutes, depending on how runny you prefer the yolk. For a slightly firmer yolk, aim closer to 8 minutes.
4. Ice Bath Ready: While the eggs are cooking, prepare a bowl of ice water to quickly cool the eggs after cooking.
5. Emphasize Timing: When the timer goes off, immediately transfer the eggs to the ice bath using your slotted spoon. This stops the cooking process and makes peeling easier.
6. Cool and Peel: Let the eggs cool in the ice bath for about 1-2 minutes. Gently tap the eggs on a hard surface, then roll them to crack the shell lightly. Peel them under running water if needed.
7. Season to Taste: Sprinkle with salt and pepper or your preferred seasoning just before serving.

This step-by-step guide ensures that you achieve perfectly soft boiled eggs every time you try!