Brunch enthusiasts know that <a href="https://www.neuralword.com/en/article/how-to-prepare-eggs-benedict” title=”How to prepare eggs Benedict”>eggs Benedict is the ultimate indulgence, but not everyone thinks they can make it at home. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, however, this iconic dish can be easily recreated in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 English muffins
– 4 slices of Canadian bacon or ham
– 4 eggs
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 3 egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the muffins. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Slice the English muffins in half and place <a href="https://www.neuralword.com/en/article/how-to-cook-hard-boiled-eggs-without-breaking-them” title=”How to cook hard-boiled eggs without breaking them”>them on a baking sheet. Toast them until they are lightly browned, about 10 minutes.
2. Cook the bacon or ham. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the Canadian bacon or ham slices. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are lightly browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Poach the eggs. Fill a large pot with water and add the white vinegar. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Crack the eggs into individual cups or bowls. Using a slotted spoon, create a whirlpool in the water and carefully slide the eggs into the center. Poach the eggs for 3-4 minutes until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny. Remove the eggs with the slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to remove any excess water.
4. Make the hollandaise sauce. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and lemon juice until they are pale and frothy. Slowly pour the melted butter into the egg mixture, whisking constantly, until the sauce is thick and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the dish. Place the toasted muffin halves on a plate. Add a slice of Canadian bacon or ham on top of each muffin half. Carefully place a poached egg on each slice of bacon or ham. Spoon the hollandaise sauce over the top of each egg. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, then serve immediately.
Tips:
1. Make sure to use unsalted butter for the sauce, as the saltiness of the bacon or ham will already be present in the dish.
2. Practice poaching eggs beforehand if you are not familiar with the technique. It may take a few tries to get them just right.
3. If you prefer a lighter version of the dish, you can substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the hollandaise sauce.
4. For a vegetarian version of the dish, replace the Canadian bacon or ham with sautéed spinach or sliced avocado.
Eggs Benedict may seem like a fancy dish best left to restaurant chefs, but with this easy recipe, you can impress your friends and family with a homemade version. The combination of crisp muffin, salty bacon or ham, runny egg, and creamy hollandaise sauce is simply irresistible. Experiment with different toppings and garnishes to make the dish your own, and enjoy the luxurious brunch experience right at home.