Have you ever heard the saying, “It’s so hot you could fry an egg on the sidewalk!”? It’s a common expression that sparks curiosity. But have you ever wondered if it’s actually possible? Well, the answer is yes, theoretically. However, in practice, it doesn’t get hot enough to cook an egg properly. Let’s dive into the science behind it!
The Science of Cooking an Egg
An egg needs a temperature of 158°F to become firm and cook. For this to happen, the proteins in the egg must undergo denaturation and coagulation, which only occurs when the temperature rises enough to initiate and sustain the cooking process.
However, the sidewalk presents several challenges to this culinary experiment. According to an experiment reported in Robert Wolke’s book, “What Einstein Told His Cook: Kitchen Science Explained,” the temperature of the sidewalk can vary depending on its composition, exposure to direct sunlight, and the air temperature. Typically, concrete is used for sidewalks, which can reach temperatures of up to 145°F on a hot day. Yet, the moment you crack an egg onto the sidewalk, it cools the surface slightly. Additionally, pavement is a poor conductor of heat, so without an additional heat source, the egg will not cook evenly.
A Surprising Alternative: The Car Hood
If you’re determined to cook an egg outdoors, something closer to the conditions of a frying pan would be the hood of a car. The metal surface conducts heat better and can get hotter, making it possible to cook an egg. It’s not a common method, but some people have successfully achieved this feat.
The Solar Egg Frying Contest
Despite the challenges of cooking an egg on the sidewalk, the idea has become so intriguing that the city of Oatman, Arizona, holds an annual Solar Egg Frying Contest on the 4th of July. Participants get 15 minutes to attempt cooking an egg using solar power alone. The organizers even allow some aids like mirrors, aluminum reflectors, or magnifying glasses to focus the heat onto the egg. The low humidity and high heat of Arizona provide an ideal environment for this unique culinary experiment.
The Origin of the Saying
Have you ever wondered where the saying “It’s so hot you could fry an egg on the sidewalk!” originated? Its exact origins remain unclear. However, references to the saying can be found as far back as the late 1800s, suggesting that it captured the American imagination long ago and has since become a common expression.
Now that we’ve explored the truth behind this everyday mystery, it’s time to satisfy our culinary cravings through conventional cooking methods. While you’re at it, check out Ekilove for more fascinating articles and insights.
Published: 11/19/2019. Author: Science Reference Section, Library of Congress
