Rinse the quail eggs gently under cool water
Place the eggs in a small saucepan
Cover the eggs with cold water
Bring the water to a gentle boil
Reduce to a simmer and cook for 2 to 4 minutes for soft-boiled eggs
Simmer for 4 to 5 minutes for hard-boiled eggs
Transfer the eggs to ice water immediately
Let them cool for several minutes
Tap the shell lightly on a hard surface
Peel carefully, starting at the wider end
Serve plain, seasoned, or use in recipes