If you're a fan of indulgent and delicious breakfast dishes, then you're probably familiar with eggs Benedict. This classic brunch favorite is a combination of poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and hollandaise sauce, all served on a toasted English muffin. But have you ever tried a variation of this timeless dish? Smoked salmon eggs Benedict is a delightful twist on the original, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to your breakfast table.
What's the difference between eggs Royale and Benedict?
Before we delve into the details of smoked salmon eggs Benedict, let's clarify the difference between eggs Royale and eggs Benedict. While both dishes share many similarities, the key difference lies in the protein used. Eggs Benedict traditionally features Canadian bacon, while eggs Royale substitutes the bacon with smoked salmon. So, if you're a fan of seafood, eggs Royale might be the perfect choice for you.
To make smoked salmon eggs Benedict, you'll need a few key ingredients:
- English muffins
- Smoked salmon
- Poached eggs
- Hollandaise sauce
- Fresh chives and lemon for garnish
Preparing the hollandaise sauce
The hollandaise sauce is the star of this dish, adding a rich and creamy element to the smoked salmon eggs Benedict. To make the sauce, start by bringing a small saucepan of water to a gentle simmer. In a heatproof glass bowl, whisk together egg yolks, vinegar, and lemon juice until frothy. Place the bowl over the simmering water and continue whisking until the mixture thickens.
Gradually whisk in melted butter, starting with single cubes and adding more as the sauce thickens. If the sauce begins to look oily or like it might be splitting, whisk the mixture off the heat for a few minutes. Season the hollandaise sauce with lemon juice, salt, and white pepper. Keep the sauce warm by leaving the bowl on top of the saucepan and placing a piece of greaseproof paper directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
Poaching the eggs
While the hollandaise sauce is warming, it's time to poach the eggs. Fill a saucepan with water and a splash of white wine vinegar and bring it to a gentle simmer. Crack each egg into a small sieve to drain away any runny egg that might cloud the water. Create a whirlpool in the simmering water by stirring it gently. When the whirlpool has almost disappeared, tip the egg from the sieve into the middle of where the whirlpool was. Poach the egg for about 2 minutes, ensuring there are small, gentle bubbles but nothing more vigorous. Transfer the poached egg to a bowl of cold water and repeat the process for the remaining eggs.
Now that the hollandaise sauce and poached eggs are ready, it's time to assemble the smoked salmon eggs Benedict. Toast the English muffins until golden brown and place a slice of smoked salmon on each half. Carefully place a poached egg on top of the smoked salmon and generously spoon hollandaise sauce over the eggs. Garnish with fresh chives and a squeeze of lemon juice for an added burst of flavor.
Smoked salmon eggs Benedict is a breakfast dish that's sure to impress. The combination of the smoky salmon, perfectly poached eggs, and creamy hollandaise sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether you're hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself to a special breakfast, this dish is a winner.
What is the best thing to serve with eggs Benedict?
Now that you've mastered the art of smoked salmon eggs Benedict, you might be wondering what to serve alongside this delectable dish. Here are some delicious options:
Roasted asparagus
One of my personal favorites, roasted asparagus pairs beautifully with eggs Benedict. The natural tenderness and crispiness of the asparagus, combined with the tangy flavor of lemon, create a perfect balance. Top it off with some finely grated lemon rind for an extra zesty kick.
Bacon
For a classic pairing, bacon is always a winner. Crispy and salty, bacon complements the flavors of eggs Benedict perfectly. Try a recipe that adds a twist, like using an air fryer and healthier sweeteners such as coconut sugar and maple syrup.
Halloumi fries
If you're looking for a unique and indulgent side, halloumi fries are the answer. Thin, crispy, breaded sticks of halloumi dipped into the runny yolk of your eggs create a mouthwatering combination. These fries are quick to prepare and sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use regular salmon instead of smoked salmon?
- Can I make hollandaise sauce ahead of time?
- What other variations of eggs Benedict can I try?
Absolutely! While smoked salmon adds a distinct flavor to the dish, regular salmon can be used as a substitute. Simply cook the salmon to your liking and place it on the English muffins before adding the poached eggs and hollandaise sauce.
While hollandaise sauce is best made fresh, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it gently before serving. Be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it using a double boiler or microwave it in short intervals, stirring frequently.
Eggs Benedict is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Some popular variations include eggs Florentine (with spinach instead of Canadian bacon), eggs Chesapeake (with crab cakes), and eggs Hemingway (with avocado and tomato). Get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients!
Smoked salmon eggs Benedict is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast dish. The combination of smoked salmon, perfectly poached eggs, and creamy hollandaise sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is sure to impress. Whether you're hosting a brunch or treating yourself to a special breakfast, this dish is a winner. Pair it with roasted asparagus, bacon, or halloumi fries for a complete and satisfying meal. Get creative and enjoy the endless possibilities of eggs Benedict!
If you want to know other articles similar to Delicious smoked salmon eggs benedict: a twist on a classic you can visit the Breakfast category.
Related Articles