The Thrill of a Challenge!

If there was ever a breakfast that makes me nostalgic, it would be eggs Benedict. It is my absolute favorite breakfast (as evidenced by the half eaten breakfast in this picture....I couldnt even get a pretty picture, I wanted a taste so bad!)

So, when I found out that J had never eaten it before I had to make him taste the deliciousness that is Eggs Benny. One problem though....I've never actually made it before...hmm.But, I love a challenge folks... and after a little experimenting, here is my recipe for hollandaise sauce (which makes the dish!)



You will need:
1/2 stick melted butter (real butter is vital here...the fat content is important to the quality of the sauce)
3 egg yolks
1/2 tsp salt
2 tbs lemon juice
1/2 tsp red pepper flake

In a metal bowl, combine egg yolks, salt and lemon juice. Place over a pan of simmering water (making sure that the simmering water does NOT touch the bottom of the bowl). Whisk the egg yolk mixture quickly for about five minutes. VERY SLOWLY pour in your melted butter, whisking constantly. Add red pepper flake. Pour over your eggs, ham and english muffin.

There is a lot you can do with eggs benedict. Make it vegetarian by adding asparagus in place of ham. Make it fancy by adding crab. Some people put black olives on it. Who cares? I would eat my hand if it had this sauce on it.

If you find your sauce is too thick, add a bit more lemon juice. This sauce is finicky, people...dont let it sit arund, and remove it from heat as soon as youre done. Dont let it touch water, or it will seize. And no one likes lumpy sauce. :)