TCC | Classic Eggs Benedict

**Classic Eggs Benedict**

**Ingredients:**

*For the Eggs Benedict:*
- 2 English muffins, split and toasted
- 4 large eggs
- 4 slices Canadian bacon or ham
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste

*For the Hollandaise Sauce:*
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- Pinch of salt

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Hollandaise Sauce:**
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once it's completely melted, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the egg yolks and lemon juice. Blend for about 20 seconds until it lightens in color.
- With the blender or food processor running on low, slowly drizzle in the melted butter. Continue blending until the sauce thickens. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper and salt to taste. Blend for a few more seconds to combine. Keep the sauce warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.

2. **Poach the Eggs:**
- Fill a large, shallow saucepan with water and bring it to a simmer. Add the white vinegar to the simmering water.
- Crack one egg into a small bowl. Create a gentle whirlpool in the water by stirring it with a spoon. Carefully slide the egg into the swirling water. Poach for about 3-4 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. Repeat with the other eggs.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the poached eggs from the water and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess water.

3. **Assemble the Eggs Benedict:**
- Place the toasted English muffin halves on serving plates.
- Top each English muffin half with a slice of Canadian bacon or ham.
- Carefully place a poached egg on top of the bacon.

4. **Pour the Hollandaise Sauce:**
- Spoon a generous amount of hollandaise sauce over each poached egg.

5. **Garnish:**
- Garnish with fresh chives or parsley (optional).

6. **Season:**
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve your Classic Eggs Benedict immediately, and enjoy!

Eggs Benedict is a classic and indulgent breakfast option that's perfect for a special occasion or a leisurely brunch.