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Ultimate Eggs Benedict

Ultimate Eggs Benedict

The Ultimate Eggs Benedict is a classic brunch dish featuring perfectly poached eggs, savory Canadian bacon, and toasted English muffins, all topped with a silky, rich Hollandaise sauce. This recipe balances textures and flavors expertly, making it an impressive yet simple meal ideal for weekend brunches or special breakfasts.

Ingredients

Scale

Eggs and Base

  • 4 fresh large eggs
  • 2 English muffins, sliced and toasted
  • 4 slices Canadian bacon
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar (for poaching eggs)

Hollandaise Sauce

  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Toast the English Muffins: Slice the English muffins in half and toast them until they are golden brown and crisp at the edges to provide a sturdy base that prevents sogginess.
  2. Prepare the Canadian Bacon: Heat a pan over medium heat and lightly brown the Canadian bacon slices to enhance their flavor and achieve a slight crispness. Keep warm.
  3. Poach the Eggs: Bring a pot of water to a gentle simmer. Add a splash of white vinegar to help the eggs hold their shape. Crack each egg into a small bowl, then gently slide it into the water. Poach for 3-4 minutes until the whites are set but yolks remain runny. Remove carefully with a slotted spoon.
  4. Make the Hollandaise Sauce: In a heatproof bowl set over simmering water (double boiler), whisk egg yolks with lemon juice until slightly thickened. Gradually add melted butter in a slow stream while whisking continuously until the sauce is thick and velvety. Season with cayenne, salt, and pepper.
  5. Assemble the Ultimate Eggs Benedict: Place the toasted English muffins on a plate, top each half with a slice of Canadian bacon, then carefully place a poached egg on top. Spoon generous amounts of warm Hollandaise sauce over the eggs. Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use the freshest eggs possible for easier poaching and better texture.
  • Maintain a gentle simmer when poaching to prevent egg whites from breaking.
  • Use unsalted, high-quality butter for the creamiest Hollandaise.
  • Whisk the Hollandaise continuously and add butter slowly to avoid splitting.
  • Assemble and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Eggs Benedict, brunch, poached eggs, Canadian bacon, Hollandaise sauce, breakfast