The age-old question of whether one can fry an egg on the sidewalk gains more relevance as heat waves intensify. While sidewalks might heat up significantly, achieving the necessary temperatures to cook an egg requires understanding of the cooking science. Egg whites cook at 140-149°F, and studies show concrete can reach 144°F, while asphalt may peak at 166°F. Cooking is theoretically possible, though caution is advised against consumption directly from such a surface.
According to the Egg Safety Center, egg whites are cooked and safe at 144 to 149 degrees Fahrenheit, so we can safely set our bar at this perfect sous vide temperature.
A 2022 study published in the Journal of Burn Care & Research reported a maximum recorded temperature for sun-exposed concrete at 144 degrees Fahrenheit, but asphalt came in at a whopping 166 degrees Fahrenheit.
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