Dish Spotlight: Eggs Benedict

This treasured breakfast dish is the epitome of simplicity and elegance. It consists of poached eggs, ham and hollandaise sauce layered on top of an English muffin. While there are conflicting accounts of who should be credited with its invention, the dish can be dated back to New York City in the late 1800’s.

Chefs all across the United States have created their own version of this brunch menu staple. One popular version, called Eggs Florentine, substitutes spinach for the ham or Canadian bacon. Other variations get creative like the Mexican inspired dish that uses chorizo, avocados and salsa in place of the ham and hollandaise sauce. Try a traditional eggs Benedict recipe and experiment with adding new flavors.

Don’t be intimidated by poaching eggs. It is a simple cooking method that has been used for centuries. The water used for poaching should be heated to a simmer — but not boiling. Adding a tablespoon of vinegar to the water will help hold the egg whites together, but if you find the taste off-putting it is not necessary. You can always try placing a ring, like a screw band from a mason jar, in the water and dropping the egg into the circle. This will also help the eggs keep their shape if you do not own an egg poacher.

This dish is simple enough that you could serve it at a brunch with friends or make it for a weekend family breakfast; but it also has an air of sophistication. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes from healthy asparagus to hearty hash browns, and if you’re feeling festive, it also goes well with a Bloody Mary! Incorporate a few of the skills that you have acquired while learning to cook and try your hand at eggs Benedict.