Smoky Grilled Fried Egg

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat (around 200°C to 230°C or 400°F to 450°F). Ensure the grates are clean. If using charcoal, aim for a two-zone fire with a hotter and cooler side. For direct grilling of the egg, you want the heat to be consistent but not too intense to prevent burning.

2. Prepare Grill Surface: Once the grill is hot, brush the grates thoroughly with a wire brush to clean them. Then, use a paper towel dipped in olive oil (held with tongs) to carefully oil the grill grates where you plan to cook the egg. Alternatively, if using a small cast iron skillet or grill pan, place it on the grill grates and let it heat up, then add butter or oil to the pan.

3. Cook the Egg (Direct Grill Method - Advanced): For best results, it's easier to use a metal egg ring directly on the grates. Lightly oil the inside of the egg ring. Place the egg ring on the oiled grates. Crack the egg carefully into the center of the egg ring. Season with salt and pepper.

- Cook for 3-5 minutes, keeping the grill lid closed as much as possible to build up heat around the egg. The white should set, and the bottom may get some light char/grill marks. The yolk will cook from the radiant heat and direct contact. Cook longer for firmer yolks. Be mindful of potential sticking or the egg running out if your grates aren't perfectly level or the egg ring isn't tight.

- This method can be tricky to master for a perfect runny yolk without breaking.

4. Cook the Egg (Skillet on Grill Method - Recommended): This method is more forgiving and reliable for a perfect fried egg with smoky flavor. Place a small cast iron skillet or a grill-safe non-stick pan directly on the preheated grill grates. Let it heat up for a few minutes. Add 1 teaspoon of olive oil or butter to the hot pan.

- Once the oil is shimmering, carefully crack the egg into the hot pan. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes, with the grill lid closed most of the time. The egg will cook much like a stovetop fried egg, but it will absorb the smoky flavor from the grill. For 'over' eggs, flip gently and cook to your desired doneness.

5. Serve: Once cooked to your preference, carefully remove the grilled egg (or skillet with egg) from the grill using tongs or oven mitts. Slide the egg onto your plate. Serve immediately on toast, a burger, a grilled vegetable, or as part of a hearty grilled breakfast.