Cut tops off of hard-cooked eggs about 1/3 from the top; gently scoop out yolks with a small spoon. Cut a small thin slice off the rounded bottoms so eggs will sit flat. (Set aside tops for another use.)

Place yolks in a bowl; mash with a fork. Add mayonnaise, sour cream, and mustard; mix well. Stir in parsley, dill, and chives. Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Gently stuff egg yolk mixture into egg bottoms. Sprinkle tops with paprika or cayenne. Makes 12 servings.

Place 12 eggs in a single layer in a large Dutch oven. Add enough cold water to just cover the eggs. Bring to a rapid boil over high heat (water will have large rapidly breaking bubbles). Remove from heat; cover and let stand for 15 minutes. Drain. Run cold water over the eggs or place them in ice water until cool enough to handle; drain. To peel eggs, gently tap each egg on the countertop. Roll the egg between the palms of your hands. Peel off eggshell, starting at the large end.

Hard-cooked eggs made with eggs that have been refrigerated 1 week to 10 days after purchase are easier to peel.