Delicious Eggs Benedict with Spinach and Ham

This mouth-watering dish is a perfect choice for breakfast or brunch, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Soft poached eggs rest upon toasted bread, supported by a savory slice of ham and fresh spinach, and all of it is generously slathered with creamy Hollandaise sauce. The richness of the eggs and butter is perfectly complemented by the subtle tang of vinegar and a hint of black pepper. This recipe is both decadent and comforting, satisfying to both the palate and the soul. The preparation is a testament to classic cooking techniques, yet simple enough for anyone looking to impress their morning guests. Serve it with a side of crispy hash browns or a fresh fruit salad to complete the meal. Whether you fancy it for a leisurely start to your day or a special occasion, these eggs Benedict will be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for those who appreciate refined, yet accessible cuisine.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 6 eggs
• 250 g butter
• 200 g spinach
• 4 slices of ham
• 4 slices of bread (white or rye, as preferred)

Spices/Sauces:

• 3 drops of vinegar
• 1 pinch of salt
• 1 pinch of black pepper

Preparation Time

Total Time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Hollandaise Sauce: Gently melt the butter over low heat and set aside.
2. In a bowl, whisk together 2 egg yolks. Add a couple of drops of vinegar, and a pinch each of salt and black pepper for seasoning.
3. While stirring continuously, slowly incorporate the melted butter into the yolk mixture until you achieve a smooth consistency.
4. Poach the Eggs: Bring a pot of water to about 90 degrees Celsius. Add a few drops of vinegar to the water.
5. Carefully crack the eggs one at a time into the water, ensuring the yolk remains intact. Poach each egg for approximately 3 minutes, just enough for firm whites and runny yolks.
6. Toast the Bread: In the meantime, toast the slices of bread until golden brown.
7. Assemble the Dish: Place each toasted bread slice on a serving plate. Top each with a slice of ham and a handful of fresh spinach.
8. Gently place a poached egg on top of the spinach.
9. Finish with Sauce: Generously pour the prepared Hollandaise sauce over the eggs to enhance the flavor profile and presentation.
10. Sprinkle a little extra black pepper if desired. Serve immediately while everything is warm and fresh.

Tips

• For a Creamier Sauce: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the Hollandaise sauce for more depth of flavor.
• Bread Choices: Opt for sourdough or English muffins instead of basic white bread for a more traditional touch.
• Spinach Alternatives: Substitute the raw spinach with sautéed mushrooms or arugula for a twist.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 380 per serving
• Protein: 21g
• Fats: 31g
• Carbohydrates: 12g

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace ham with roasted peppers or grilled eggplant.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread or omit the bread altogether for a lighter option.
• Spicy Version: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the Hollandaise sauce for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side of mixed greens drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Complement with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a mimosa.

Best Places

1. Balthazar - Renowned for its classic brunch options and charming Parisian ambiance. Location: 80 Spring St, New York, USA.
2. The Breakfast Club - Famed for its creative takes on breakfast classics. Location: 33 D'Arblay St, Soho, London, UK.
3. Cafe de Flore - An iconic spot offering a taste of Parisian life with exceptional coffee. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
4. Two Hands Cafe - Known for its laid-back vibe and healthy dishes. Location: 164 Mott St, New York, USA.
5. Bill's - A vibrant atmosphere perfect for breakfast meetings. Location: 36-44 Brewer St, London, UK.
6. Le Pain Quotidien - Offers organic ingredients and communal tables. Location: 84 Rue de Seine, Paris, France.
7. Blue Bottle Coffee - Famous for specialty coffee and fresh pastries. Location: 450 W 15th St, New York, USA.
8. Cappuccino Grand Cafe - Experience island life with a continental breakfast. Location: Paseo Illetas, 1, Calvià, Mallorca, Spain.
9. Cafe Hawelka - A historic café with a traditional Viennese atmosphere. Location: Dorotheergasse 6, Vienna, Austria.
10. Moeder Lambic - Beloved for its extensive beer menu and delicious bites. Location: Place Fontainas 8, Brussels, Belgium.