Gordon Ramsay's Sunny Side Up: the top chef reveals his secrets

There are plenty of chef-level tips for dishes like Beef Wellington or the perfect chocolate soufflé – but let's be real: they often seem more intimidating than inspiring. Perhaps that's why we pay particular attention when a top chef like Gordon Ramsay reveals his secret for something as simple as eggs sunny side up. We've long known how to cook the perfect breakfast egg – so it's high time we turned our attention to the fried version.

As Ramsay himself explained, he developed a method that ensures eggs turn out exactly as they should every time: with golden-brown edges, runny yolks and perfectly cooked egg whites. He relies on a surprising spice that is easily overlooked, as well as simple tricks that give the breakfast classic new depth.

Tip 1: Use different types of fat

When the British star chef prepares eggs sunny side up, he uses the same method he uses for steaks: He combines oil and butter. In a non-stick frying pan, he first adds a generous dash of cooking oil (a neutral type like canola or peanut oil, but olive oil could also be used), followed by an even more generous portion of butter. The oil prevents the butter from burning in the high heat while ensureing it retains its full flavor. And in true Ramsay style, you can be generous – butter is the central component.

Tip 2: Swirl the pan

Once the eggs are in the pan, they are immediately seasoned with salt, black pepper and red chili flakes. This ensures that the spices adhere perfectly and intensify flavor right from the start. Ramsay then gently swirls the pan so that the eggs move in small circles and the foaming butter gradually flows over them. This makes the eggs  cook in hot butter – very similar to steak – allowing the top of the egg white to solidify without having to turn them. If swirling the pan is too arduous, the butter can simply be drizzled over the eggs with a spoon. If the yolks set too quickly, it helps to take the pan off the heat briefly and finish cooking in the residual heat.

Tip 3: Don't fear spice

Just before the eggs are served, Ramsay refines them with spices directly in the pan. We start with a real classic: Sriracha. The spicy chili sauce with its light garlic note goes perfectly with eggs – no wonder it is extremely popular with many breakfast fans.

But that's not all: for a special twist, Ramsay combines Sriracha with a rather unexpected flavor – a splash of Worcestershire sauce. This – admittedly unusual – combo provides additional depth and rounds off the dish in an exciting way. Now that the top chef has revealed his tricks, it's time to try for yourself!