Poached eggs are widely considered the best when it comes to taste and texture, but their preparation can be tricky. While many culinary experts have shared their techniques for achieving perfect results, James Martin has a unique approach that sets his method apart. He guarantees thick, well-cooked egg whites with a beautifully golden and runny yolk.
On his ITV show, “James Martin’s Saturday Morning,” he revealed his recipe, recommending serving the poached eggs on homemade crumpets with a generous drizzle of creamy Hollandaise sauce for the ultimate comfort food experience.
For the eggs themselves, only three key ingredients are required: eggs, boiling water, and a touch of white vinegar.
James Martin’s Poached Egg Hack
James’s method is a clever hack that utilizes a combination of boiling water, cold water, and white vinegar for impressive results. He describes the dish as “protein-packed and substantial.” To ensure the most satisfying breakfast, he suggests preparing the crumpets and Hollandaise sauce before tackling the eggs.
Once the crumpets and sauce are ready, bring a large saucepan of water to a rolling boil. Then, add a splash of vinegar and use a whisk to create a gentle swirling motion in the center of the water. This swirling motion helps to keep the egg whites together during cooking.
Carefully crack each egg directly into the swirling water, ensuring it’s submerged. Allow the eggs to cook for two to three minutes. For multiple eggs, you can poach up to four at once, but adjust the pan size accordingly to accommodate the extra eggs.
While the eggs cook, prepare a bowl of iced water and keep it near the stovetop. Maintaining a medium heat on the pan is crucial to prevent overboiling and potential mess during cooking.
Once the eggs are cooked, carefully remove them from the water using a slotted spoon, taking care not to pierce the yolk. Immediately lower each egg into the prepared iced water for approximately 30 seconds. This crucial step helps prevent the eggs from completely cooling down, which can slightly set the yolk and ruin the desired golden, runny consistency.
Now, assemble your breakfast masterpiece! Layer the poached eggs on top of your crumpets. Add wilted spinach for a touch of freshness and top with your favorite additions, such as smoked salmon for a classic Eggs Benedict or crispy bacon for a hearty Eggs Royale. Drizzle generously with the creamy Hollandaise sauce and enjoy the warm, comforting dish.
Don’t forget to season the dish to your liking, adding a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for an extra punch of flavor. This simple yet elegant breakfast creation is sure to impress, thanks to James Martin’s clever technique for achieving perfectly poached eggs.
