Poaching an egg sounds simple in theory, but turning out one that’s symmetrical without pieces of whites floating away at the edges is actually tricky. Cuisipro’s Stainless Steel Egg Poacher ($14.95 to $15.99 for two) can help. The ovoid-shaped tools clip to the rim of the pot and nestle the eggs, letting simmering water (with a splash of vinegar) circulate around them. Stainless, the company says, allows an egg to cook quicker and more evenly than silicone, another material used in egg poachers. The result: perfect pillowy mounds with golden, runny yolks to top toast, English muffins, or a salad with frisee lettuce and bits of crisp bacon. Available at KitchenWares by Blackstone’s, 215 Newbury St., Boston, 857-366-4237; Tags Hardware, 29 White St., Cambridge,
617-868-7711;
Kitchen Outfitters, 342 Great Road, Acton, 978-263-1955. ANN TRIEGER KURLAND