An egg timer is a device whose primary purpose is to measure a set amount of time. Usually this is three minutes, that being the approximate time it takes to cook an average egg. Hard boiled eggs take longer to cook. The three minute egg timer is for soft-boiled eggs. The egg changes rapidly during the first few minutes of cooking. The changes cannot be seen through the Eggshell. Therefore timing is critical. Soft boiled eggs which are cooked for too short a time or for too long may not be to the recipient's liking.

Soft-boiled eggs are not recommended for people who may be susceptible to salmonella, such as the old, the infirm, or pregnant women.

Egg timers are useful but not essential. Many cooks time boiled eggs comfortable with a clock or Wrist watch. Manufacturers must ensure that their product is sufficiently enticing that customers will prefer it to a clock or watch. Egg timers can also be stylish or ornamental. They can give a clear sound so the cook will not overlook when the egg is ready.

Many variations of this device have been created, including:

• The hourglass or sandglass where sand moves through a restriction between chambers. Such timers are still available.^* Traditional hourglass egg timers are frequently sold as Souvenirs at Tourist attractions.

Other use of the term

Egg timer, or eggtimer, is also used as a term for a funny person. This usage has been attributed to comedian Chevy Chase from National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation.

Reference

• The Cooks Kitchen

Kitchenware | Clocks