Eggs Benedict
Classic eggs benedict served on a perfectly toasted muffin with hollandaise sauce.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
The exact origin of Eggs Benedict is debated, with two prominent claims. One attributes it to Delmonico's Restaurant in New York City in the 1860s, created for a Mr. and Mrs. Benedict. The other credits the dish to Lemuel Benedict, a Wall Street broker, who ordered a similar creation at the Waldorf Hotel in 1894 as a hangover cure.
Eggs Benedict is often associated with brunch and leisurely weekend mornings, representing a treat or special occasion.
Brunch Staple
Eggs Benedict is a quintessential brunch item, commonly found on menus across the United States and other Western countries. It is often enjoyed alongside mimosas or other brunch cocktails.
Special Occasions
Due to its relatively rich and indulgent nature, Eggs Benedict is often seen as a treat or special occasion food, rather than an everyday meal.
Variations
The dish has inspired numerous variations, such as Eggs Florentine (with spinach), Eggs Royale (with smoked salmon), and Eggs Blackstone (with bacon and tomato).
Eggs Benedict boasts a rich and savory flavor profile, balancing creamy richness with tangy brightness.
The hollandaise sauce contributes a buttery, lemony richness, while the poached egg offers a delicate, runny yolk. The ham (or Canadian bacon) provides a salty and savory element, and the toasted English muffin offers a slightly crisp and neutral base. The overall experience is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Perfect Poached Eggs
Use fresh eggs for the best poaching results. Add a tablespoon of vinegar to the poaching water to help the egg whites coagulate quickly. Gently swirl the water before adding the eggs to create a whirlpool.
Hollandaise Sauce Mastery
Use a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a simmering pot of water to prevent the hollandaise from curdling. Whisk constantly and incorporate the butter slowly to create a smooth and emulsified sauce. Keep the sauce warm, but not hot, to prevent it from separating.
Muffin Preparation
Toast the English muffins until golden brown and slightly crispy. Buttering the muffins adds extra flavor and richness.
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