The basis of great eggs Benedict is a perfect hollandaise, and this version makes a lighter sauce. Paired with a classic poached egg and a slice of Ontario Porketta, it can be a special breakfast or brunch. When making it, keep the water at a simmer so the egg yolks are perfectly soft.
Pour enough water into a shallow saucepan to come 2 inches (5 cm) up side; bring to boil. Reduce heat to simmer. Break each egg into a small dish; gently slip into water. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until desired doneness. Remove with slotted spoon and drain well; keep warm on a towel-lined platter.
In small heavy saucepan, whisk together yolk, water and pepper; cook, whisking constantly, over medium low heat for about 5 minutes or until pale and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat. Whisk in butter and lemon.
Arrange English muffins, cut sides up, on four warm plates. Top each muffin with 4 pieces of asparagus, one slice of the porketta and one poached egg. Spoon warm hollandaise sauce over top and sprinkle with chives. Serve immediately with a fresh green salad and warm roasted potatoes.
Makes 4 servings
Wine Pairing Suggestion: Ontario’s Cave Spring Cellars, 2005 BRUT is a dry, brut-style sparkler with generous apple/pear fruit and delicate yeastiness on the nose. The palate is crisp with vivid Macintosh apple flavours, a fine mousse, delicate chalky textures and rounding notes of toast and lees along the edges.
Substitute the asparagus with fresh baby spinach when not in season.