The Powerhouse Ingredients To Add To Scrambled Eggs For Serious Fluff

Thinking beyond the expert-approved tips for fluffy scrambled eggs in circulation, Foodie has called upon experts in egg matters to share what specific ingredients are key to seriously fluffy scrambled eggs. Nelson Serrano-Bahri, chef and Director of Innovation at the American Egg Board, answered this call for guidance. Serrano-Bahri first highlighted how swapping water for milk affects the fluffiness of your scrambled eggs, saying that about a teaspoon per egg will do the trick. "While milk can make scrambled eggs creamy, it can sometimes lead to a denser texture," explained Serrano-Bahri. "Instead, adding water creates steam that helps puff up the eggs during cooking."

Serrano-Bahri also recommended adding in more egg yolks, saying that the increase in fat content and emulsification creates fluffier eggs. It might be surprising to find that sour cream, too, takes the fluffiness of a scramble to the next level. "Try adding a tablespoon of sour cream per two eggs and whisking until smooth for a creamy, soft scramble," Serrano-Bahri explains. He also notes that even the timing of adding ingredients is key to fluffy eggs. According to Serrano-Bahri, waiting until just before the eggs are set to add in seasonings "helps to preserve their fluffy texture and to avoid drawing out moisture from the eggs too early."

In addition to highlighting fluffiness-focused ingredients, Serrano-Bahri also shared rarely recommended ingredients worth adding for flavor. When you have a hankering for toasty, nutty richness, Serrano-Bahri recommends swapping your regular butter base for smoked or brown butter. However, for eggs with more of a kick, Dijon mustard is the way to go. "Mixing in a small amount of Dijon mustard to scrambled eggs adds a subtle kick and a touch of acidity, enhancing the overall depth of flavor," explains Serrano-Bahri.

For eggs with more depth and complexity, Serrano-Bahri recommends ingredients like fish sauce, soy sauce, or black or roasted garlic. A few drops of fish or soy sauce add an umami layer of flavor, turning a simple plate of scrambled eggs into a dish that makes your taste buds sing. "This works especially well with buttery, slow-cooked scrambled eggs," Serrano-Bahri adds. Black or roasted garlic contributes a similar complexity but imbues the scrambled eggs with a more mellow, caramelized flavor.

While there are many ways to elevate your everyday scrambled eggs, sometimes adding ingredients for more balance is exactly what you need. If you follow Serrano-Bahri's advice, this is easily accomplished with preserved lemon or lemon zest. "For a Mediterranean inspired take on scrambled eggs, experiment with adding some finely chopped preserved lemon peel or freshly grated lemon zest for brightness and balance, especially if your scrambled eggs include herbs or dairy," he explains.