I look forward to having this dish every year, it is a celebration of the best Hens eggs, organic of course and the first British asparagus, cooked simply. What a treat!
Ingredients Required
For the poached egg:
1Ltr
Water
2 tsp
White wine vinegar
4 medium
Eggs, organic
For the asparagus and spinach:
1Ltr
Water
16 medium
Asparagus spears, trimmed
30g
Unsalted butter
150g
Baby spinach leaves, washed and drained
Salt and pepper to taste
For the mustard dressing:
1 tbsp
Dijon mustard
1 tbsp
White wine vinegar
2 tbsp
Water
3 tbsp
Non scented oil (vegetable, refined rapeseed etc)
1 pinch
Sea salt
1 pinch
Freshly ground black pepper
To finish:
4 tbsp
Hazelnuts, toasted and lightly crushed
Cooking Method
Step 1
For the poached egg:
In a medium saucepan, on a high heat, bring the water, salt and vinegar to the boil.
Crack each egg into its own individual small bowl.
Carefully stir the boiling water with a spoon to create a small whirlpool. Gently tip each egg from its bowl into the centre of the swirling water. Turn the heat down to medium so the water is simmering and cook the eggs for 3-4 minutes (*2).
With a slotted spoon, remove the eggs one at a time and drain them onto a tray lined with kitchen paper.
Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Step 2
For the asparagus and spinach:
In a medium saucepan, bring the water to the boil with a pinch of salt. Cook the asparagus for 3-4 minutes until al dente. Remove from the water and toss in the mustard dressing to keep warm. Heat the butter in a large pan and sauté the spinach for a minute until wilted.
Step 3
For the mustard dressing:
Mix the ingredient together for the dressing, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Place in a large bowl, ready to dress the asparagus.