
Classic Eggs Benedict
Perfectly poached eggs on toasted English muffins with Canadian bacon and rich hollandaise sauce.
15 mins
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
2
Servings
Ingredients
- 2 English muffins, split and toasted
- 4 slices Canadian bacon
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- Fresh chives for garnish
Nutrition Facts
Instructions
Prepare the hollandaise sauce: In a blender, combine egg yolks, lemon juice, salt, and cayenne pepper. Blend for 30 seconds until light and frothy.
With the blender running, slowly drizzle in the melted butter until the sauce is thick and creamy. Set aside in a warm place.
Poach the eggs: Fill a large saucepan with water and bring to a gentle simmer. Add vinegar. Crack each egg into a small cup, then gently slide into the water. Cook for 3-4 minutes until whites are set but yolks are still runny.
While eggs cook, toast the English muffins until golden brown. Lightly brown the Canadian bacon in a skillet over medium heat.
Assemble: Place two muffin halves on each plate. Top each with a slice of Canadian bacon, then a poached egg. Spoon hollandaise sauce generously over the top.
Garnish with chopped fresh chives and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Serve immediately.
Chef's Tips
- Egg Freshness: Use the freshest eggs possible for the best poaching results - the whites will hold together better.
- Water Temperature: Keep the water at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil, to prevent breaking the eggs.
- Hollandaise Hack: If your sauce breaks, blend in 1-2 teaspoons of hot water to bring it back together.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the hollandaise sauce up to 1 hour ahead - keep it warm in a thermos.
- Variations: Try smoked salmon or sautéed spinach instead of Canadian bacon for different versions.
- Timing: Have all components ready before poaching eggs as they should be served immediately.