Eggs Benedict is a timeless breakfast dish that has delighted taste buds for generations. This elegant combination of poached eggs, Canadian bacon, English muffins, and creamy hollandaise sauce is sure to impress. Eggs Benedict is a classic dish that showcases the perfect marriage of flavors and textures. With this simple recipe, you can recreate this beloved brunch staple in the comfort of your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, get your poaching skills ready, and savor the heavenly goodness of homemade Eggs Benedict. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this delectable brunch favorite.
What You Need
4 large eggs
2 English muffins
4 slices of Canadian bacon or ham
3 egg yolks
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Pinch of salt
1/2 cup melted butter
Salt and cayenne pepper to taste
Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Butter for toasting the English muffins
What To Do
Start by bringing a pot of water to a gentle simmer. Crack each egg into a small bowl or ramekin. Create a gentle whirlpool in the simmering water using a spoon and carefully slide the eggs into the center. Allow them to poach for about 3-4 minutes until the whites are set, but the yolks are still runny. Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Slice the English muffins in half and lightly toast them until golden brown. You can use a toaster or a hot griddle for this step. Once toasted, spread a little butter on each muffin half for added richness.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Canadian bacon or ham until it is heated through and lightly browned. This will add a savory element to your Eggs Benedict. Remove the cooked bacon or ham from the skillet and set aside.
In a heatproof bowl, whisk together 3 egg yolks, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Place the bowl over a pot of gently simmering water (double boiler method). Slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup of melted butter while whisking constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Remove from heat and season with salt and cayenne pepper to taste.
Place the toasted English muffin halves on a plate. Top each half with a slice of Canadian bacon or ham, followed by a poached egg. Generously spoon hollandaise sauce over the eggs, covering them completely. Optionally, garnish with fresh chives or parsley for a touch of color.
Carefully transfer the prepared Eggs Benedict to individual plates and serve immediately. The combination of runny poached eggs, savory bacon, and velvety hollandaise sauce over toasted English muffins is a true delight for the taste buds. Pair with a side of fresh fruit or a crisp salad for a complete brunch experience.