Few breakfast dishes are as satisfying and versatile as eggs. Whether you’re starting your day, enjoying a leisurely brunch, or even seeking a quick and filling snack, eggs consistently deliver. And for British chef James Martin, soft-boiled eggs hold a special place in his culinary repertoire, often featuring in his classic and comforting recipes on his hit show, *James Martin’s Saturday Morning*. Now, he’s shared a delightful and elevated twist on the beloved dippy eggs and soldiers, adding a layer of gourmet flair to this timeless British tradition.
This isn’t your grandma’s dippy eggs! Martin’s recipe infuses the classic with vibrant flavors, transforming a simple breakfast into a culinary experience. His ingenious recipe jazzes up the traditional soldiers by incorporating flavorful additions like sundried tomato paste, vibrant pesto, or tangy chutney. For a savory kick, he suggests adding sliced chorizo, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Vegetarian? Simply swap the chorizo for your favorite pesto for an equally delicious outcome.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed. Ready in a mere 10 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for a quick yet impressive meal. One enthusiastic home cook raved, “I really enjoyed this. Great for a morning… I used the chorizo and the egg really complimented it. Delish!” Another gave a five-star review, highlighting the recipe’s ease and delicious results. Clearly, this elevated take on a breakfast staple is a winner!
James Martin’s Gourmet Dippy Eggs and Soldiers Recipe:
Ingredients:
* 2-4 large eggs, brought to room temperature (this ensures even cooking)
* 4 thin slices of soft white bread (a good quality bread will enhance the overall experience)
* 1 tbsp sundried tomato paste, pesto, or your favorite chutney (experiment with different flavors!)
* 50g sliced chorizo (or omit for a vegetarian option)
Instructions:
1.
Prepare the Soldiers:
Spread a thin layer of your chosen paste, pesto, or chutney on two slices of bread. Layer the chorizo (if using) on one slice, top with the other slice, and gently flatten the sandwich using a rolling pin. This ensures even toasting and prevents the layers from separating during grilling. Repeat with the remaining bread.2.
Cook the Eggs:
Fill a small saucepan with cold water. Add the eggs and place over medium-high heat. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, maintaining a gentle simmer. Cook for exactly three and a half minutes for perfectly soft-boiled eggs. Overcooking will result in a firmer yolk.3.
Grill the Soldiers:
While the eggs simmer, grill the chorizo sandwiches until golden brown and the chorizo is cooked through. James Martin suggests using a rolling pin again to press the sandwiches together if the layers begin to separate during grilling. Once cooked, trim the crusts and slice the sandwiches into 1cm thick soldiers.4.
Serve:
Carefully remove the eggs from the pan using a slotted spoon, and serve immediately with the warm soldiers. Enjoy the delightful combination of creamy yolk and flavorful, crispy soldiers!This recipe is more than just a breakfast; it’s a delightful culinary experience that proves even the simplest dishes can be elevated to new heights with a touch of creativity and high-quality ingredients. So, try this recipe and experience the magic of James Martin’s gourmet twist on a beloved British classic!
