National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) Culinary Practice Exam

What size of eggs is most commonly used in cooking?

1. Small

2. Large

3. Extra large

4. Jumbo

The correct answer is: Large

The most commonly used size of eggs in cooking is large. This is primarily due to its widespread availability and standardization in recipes. Many culinary texts and guidelines reference large eggs when specifying measurements, making them a go-to choice for most recipes. Large eggs typically weigh around 24 ounces per dozen, which translates to about 1.5 ounces per egg. This size provides a good balance of yolk and white, allowing for consistent results in baked goods, sauces, and other culinary applications. The familiarity that cooks have with large eggs also simplifies the cooking process, as adjusting recipes from this standard size is straightforward. Other sizes such as small, extra large, and jumbo do exist but are less commonly referenced in standard recipes, which is why they might not be the primary choice for everyday cooking. Using large eggs ensures that the proportions remain consistent, which is crucial for achieving the desired outcome in various dishes.