Carefully add the eggs, then turn the heat down to low and simmer for 12 minutes. You want bubbles, but not be a rolling boil.
While the eggs are cooking, prepare an ice bath. Fill a large bowl about halfway with ice, then add water.
Transfer the cooked eggs to the ice bath using a spoon or a mesh strainer. Let cool in the ice bath for 10-15 minutes. At this point, you can transfer to a bowl and store the eggs in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Deviled Eggs
To prepare the deviled eggs, start by peeling the hard boiled eggs. Rinse under cold water to make sure no shell remains.
Slice each egg in half lengthways. Remove the yolks and place into a small bowl.
Mash the yolks with a fork and mix in the mayonnaise, mustard and vinegar. Taste and add hot sauce, salt and pepper to taste.
Add the yolk mixture to a piping bag with a large star tip and pipe into each egg cavity. If you don't have a piping bag, you can make one by filling a resealable plastic bag with the filling, then snip off a corner and squeeze the filling through the opening. Or, simply use a small teaspoon to scoop and fill the eggs.
Arrange the eggs on a serving platter and sprinkle with paprika and chopped chives.
Notes
These eggs are best eaten the day they are prepared.
To store leftovers, place in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.
In the interest of food safety, don’t let them sit out longer than 2 hours.