Description
The ultimate indulgent brunch classic, featuring perfectly poached eggs, Canadian bacon, toasted English muffins, and a rich, creamy hollandaise sauce. This eggs benedict recipe is surprisingly achievable at home!
Ingredients
8 large fresh eggs (for poaching)
2 tbsp white vinegar (for poaching water)
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and kept warm
3 large egg yolks
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Pinch of salt
Pinch of cayenne pepper
4 English muffins, split
8 slices Canadian bacon
Fresh chopped chives or parsley, for garnish
Paprika or extra cayenne pepper, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Fill a large, deep pot with water (about 4-5 inches deep) and add 1-2 tablespoons of white vinegar. Bring the water to a gentle simmer, just below boiling.
Step 2: Crack each cold egg into individual small bowls or ramekins.
Step 3: Using a slotted spoon, create a gentle swirl in the simmering water. Carefully slide one egg at a time into the center of the swirl. Poach for 3-4 minutes for a runny yolk, or 5 minutes for a slightly firmer yolk. Remove with the slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess water. Repeat with remaining eggs.
Step 4: While eggs are poaching, prepare the hollandaise. In a heatproof bowl placed over a saucepan with simmering water (ensure bowl does not touch water), whisk together 3 large egg yolks, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Step 5: Continuously whisk the egg yolk mixture vigorously for 3-5 minutes, until it becomes light in color, thickens, and doubles in volume. Remove from heat.
Step 6: Slowly, in a thin, steady stream, gradually pour the warm melted butter into the egg yolk mixture while continuously whisking until all the butter is incorporated and the sauce is thick, smooth, and glossy. Keep warm.
Step 7: Split 4 English muffins in half and toast them until golden brown. In a small skillet, quickly sear 8 slices of Canadian bacon over medium heat until lightly browned and warmed through, about 1-2 minutes per side.
Step 8: To assemble, place two toasted English muffin halves on a plate. Top each half with one slice of Canadian bacon, then a poached egg. Generously spoon the warm hollandaise sauce over each poached egg. Garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley and a dash of paprika if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
For best results, use very fresh eggs for poaching. If your hollandaise separates, don't panic! Whisk a fresh egg yolk in a clean bowl over very low heat, then slowly drizzle in your separated sauce while whisking constantly until it emulsifies again. Serve immediately for optimal taste and texture. This eggs benedict recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a luxurious weekend treat.
- Prep Time: 20M
- Cook Time: 15M
- Category: Breakfast & Brunch
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (2 halves)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 390 mg