Eggs Benedict near me
Eggs Benedict is a beloved brunch staple with a history as rich as its Hollandaise sauce. While its exact origins are debated, one popular story credits a New York City stockbroker, Lemuel Benedict, who in the late 1800s, ordered a unique breakfast at the Waldorf Hotel to cure a hangover. His creation—a combination of poached eggs, buttered toast, bacon, and Hollandaise—became an instant hit. Another tale attributes it to Delmonico’s restaurant, where a regular customer requested a special breakfast. Either way, Eggs Benedict quickly became a classic, symbolizing indulgence and elegance in American breakfast culture.
Why it’s a classic breakfast dish?
Eggs Benedict has earned its place as a classic breakfast dish because it strikes the perfect balance between sophistication and comfort. The combination of delicate poached eggs, crispy Canadian bacon, toasted English muffins, and rich, buttery Hollandaise sauce creates a harmony of textures and flavors that is both indulgent and satisfying. It’s a dish that feels luxurious yet accessible, making it a popular choice for special occasions like weekend brunches or holiday mornings. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to elevate a simple breakfast into something truly gourmet, offering a restaurant-quality experience at home.
Here’s a detailed list of ingredients for making Eggs Benedict for 2 people:
Ingredients for 2 persons:
1Poached Eggs:
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vinegar (optional, for poaching)
2English Muffins:
2 English muffins, split in half (4 halves total)
1 tablespoon butter (for toasting the muffins)
3Canadian Bacon:
4 slices of Canadian bacon (or ham)
4Hollandaise Sauce:
2 large egg yolks
1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
A pinch of salt
A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
Method for Preparation
1. Prepare the Hollandaise Sauce
- Set Up a Double Boiler: Fill a medium saucepan with a few inches of water and bring it to a simmer. Place a heatproof bowl on top of the saucepan, making sure it doesn’t touch the water.
- Whisk the Egg Yolks: In the bowl, whisk together the 2 egg yolks and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice until the mixture becomes pale and thickens slightly.
- Add Melted Butter: Slowly drizzle in the ½ cup of melted unsalted butter while whisking continuously. Keep whisking until the sauce is thick and creamy. If it’s too thick, you can add a teaspoon of warm water to loosen it.
- Season: Stir in a pinch of salt and cayenne pepper (if using). Keep the sauce warm over the simmering water, stirring occasionally
2. Poach the Eggs
- Prepare the Water: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add 1 tablespoon of vinegar to the water (this helps the eggs hold their shape).
- Crack the Eggs: Crack each egg into a small bowl or ramekin to ensure they stay intact.
- Poach the Eggs: Gently slide the eggs one by one into the simmering water. Poach for about 3-4 minutes for soft, runny yolks or longer if you prefer firmer yolks.
- Remove the Eggs: Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the eggs from the water and place them on a paper towel to drain.
3. Cook the Canadian Bacon
- Heat a Skillet: In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add the Canadian bacon slices and cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they are heated through and slightly crispy.
4. Toast the English Muffins
- Toast: While the bacon is cooking, toast the split English muffins in a toaster or on a skillet with 1 tablespoon of butter until golden brown
5. Assemble the Eggs Benedict
- Layer the Components: On each toasted English muffin half, place a slice of Canadian bacon, followed by a poached egg.
- Add Hollandaise Sauce: Generously spoon the warm Hollandaise sauce over the top of each egg.
6. ServServing Suggestions
Ideal Side Dishes
- Roasted Potatoes
- Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a perfect complement to Eggs Benedict.
- Fruit Salad
- A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a light and sweet contrast to the richness of the dish.
- Avocado Slices
- Creamy avocado slices or guacamole can enhance the meal, providing a healthy fat option.
- Sautéed Spinach
- Lightly sautéed spinach adds a nutritious green element to the plate and pairs well with the flavors of the dish.
- Hash Browns
- Golden and crispy hash browns are a classic breakfast side that adds texture and heartiness to the meal.
Beverage Pairings
Orange juice or a mix of berry juices can provide a refreshing and vibrant complement to the rich flavors of Eggs Benedict.e
Mimosas
A sparkling mix of champagne and orange juice, mimosas are a classic brunch cocktail that pairs beautifully with the flavors of Eggs Benedict.
Bloody Mary
The savory and spicy flavors of a Bloody Mary can complement the richness of the dish, making it a popular brunch choice.
Coffee
A good cup of freshly brewed coffee is a timeless pairing for breakfast and adds a comforting touch to the meal.
Herbal Tea
A light herbal tea can be a soothing option, especially if you prefer a non-caffeinated beverage.
Freshly Squeezed Juice
- Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the Eggs Benedict immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika if desired. Pair with your favorite side dishes and enjoy
In summary, Eggs Benedict is a delicious and sophisticated brunch dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare at home. With its perfect poached eggs, savory Canadian bacon, and creamy Hollandaise sauce, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. So gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure—your taste buds will thank you!