Classic Eggs Benedict with a Twist

Ingredients

• 2 English muffins 2 English muffins
• 4 slices of Canadian bacon or ham 4 slices of Canadian bacon or ham
• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Fresh chives, for garnish Fresh chives, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat: 30g (12g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 25g (2g sugars)
• Protein: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. 2.
   Split the English muffins in half and toast them until golden brown.
3. 3.
   In a skillet, cook the Canadian bacon or ham slices until heated through.
4. 4.
   Fill a large saucepan with water and bring it to a gentle simmer.
5. 5.
   Crack one egg into a small bowl or ramekin. Create a gentle whirlpool in the simmering water and carefully slide the egg into the center. Repeat with the remaining eggs.
6. 6.
   Poach the eggs for about 3-4 minutes until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny.
7. 7.
   Remove the poached eggs from the water using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain excess water.
8. 8.
   Place the toasted English muffin halves on a baking sheet. Top each half with a slice of Canadian bacon or ham, followed by avocado slices.
9. 9.
   Carefully place a poached egg on top of each English muffin half.
10. 10.
    Sprinkle the eggs with paprika and garnish with fresh chives.
11. 11.
    Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven for 1-2 minutes to warm the toppings.
12. 12.
    Remove from the oven and serve immediately.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Avocado — Choose a ripe avocado that is slightly soft when gently squeezed. To prevent browning, drizzle the avocado slices with lemon or lime juice.
• Poached eggs — For perfectly poached eggs, use fresh eggs and ensure the water is gently simmering, not boiling. Adding a splash of vinegar to the water can help the eggs hold their shape.

Tips & Tricks

• To save time, you can prepare the hollandaise sauce in advance and reheat it gently before serving.
• Experiment with different toppings such as smoked salmon or sautéed spinach to add variety to your Eggs Benedict.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the Canadian bacon or ham with sautéed mushrooms or grilled tomatoes.
• For a lighter option, you can use whole wheat English muffins instead of the traditional ones.
• If you're not a fan of avocado, you can omit it or replace it with sliced tomato or roasted red pepper.

Serving advice

Serve the Eggs Benedict immediately after assembling to ensure the eggs are still warm and the hollandaise sauce is at its best. Pair it with a side of fresh fruit or a mixed green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Eggs Benedict on a plate with the avocado slices peeking out from under the poached eggs. Drizzle the hollandaise sauce over the top and sprinkle with paprika and fresh chives for an elegant and appetizing presentation.