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Fennel Sausage and Mushroom Quiche

Fennel Sausage and Mushroom Quiche

Fennel Sausage and Mushroom Quiche

 

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 T. sugar

1/2 tsp. fine sea salt

1 1/4 cups (2 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, cubed and chilled

2 large eggs

 

1 1/2 T. unsalted butter

9 ounces ground pork sausage

1 tsp. fennel seeds, coarsely chopped

3/4 tsp. fine sea salt

8 cremini mushrooms, coarsely chopped

2 large fresh sage leaves, finely chopped

8 large eggs

1/2 cup whole milk

1/2 cup heavy cream

Pinch of freshly ground black pepper

3/4 cup grated Comte cheese (can substitute Parmesan or even a sharp aged white Cheddar)

 

To make the pie crust: In a food processor (or a large bowl, if mixing by hand), combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Pulse once or twice to combine. Add the butter and pulse until it is broken down into pea-size pieces. (If mixing by hand, get in there with your hands and work the butter into the flour.) Add the eggs and pulse (or stir by hand) until combined. The dough may still seem dry and not entirely together–that’s okay. Dump it out onto a piece of plastic wrap. Bring the dough together into a ball and flatten it into a disc on the plastic wrap; it should come together as you do, but if it is still too dry, add a tsp. or two of very cold water. Wrap the dough tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. On a well-floured work surface, roll out the dough into a round just under 1/4 inch thick. Line a 9-inch pie pan with the dough (see Chef’s Note). Cut the excess dough from the edge and then crimp the edge and fold it up. With a fork, gently poke the bottom of the dough all over. Chill the dough lined pie pan for 10 minutes. Line the dough with a large piece of parchment paper and fill it with dried beans or pie weights. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until it starts getting golden and is almost fully cooked. Remove the parchment and beans or weights and bake for 10 minutes more, or until just lightly golden all over and fully baked. Transfer to a wire rack; keep the oven on. To make the quiche: In a large skillet, melt 1 T. of the butter over medium to high heat. Add the sausage, fennel seeds, and 1/2 tsp. salt and cook until the sausage is almost fully cooked, 8 to 10 minutes. Add the mushrooms and remaining 1/2 T. butter and cook until the mushrooms begin to soften and the sausage is fully cooked all the way through, about 5 minutes. Add the sage, stir to combine, and turn off the heat. In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs well until frothy. Add the milk, cream, pepper, and remaining 1/4 tsp. of the salt and whisk again. Add the cheese and stir to combine. Set aside. Pour the sausage-mushroom mixture into the baked pie crust and spread it evenly. Pour the milk mixture evenly over the sausage and mushrooms. Bake the quiche for 35 to 45 minutes, then cover it with foil and bake for 10 to 15 minutes more, until the center is jiggly but set. Let the quiche cool, then slice and enjoy. The quiche will keep, covered, in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave. Cook’s Note: This recipe will leave you with leftover dough. You can wrap and freeze it. This is also my recipe for pie dough, so you’re welcome! Use this for your pie making!

Kuku Sabzi (Persian Herb Frittata)

Kuku Sabzi (Persian Herb Frittata)

Kuku Sabzi (Persian Herb Frittata)

 

Kuku sabzi can be served warm, cold, or at room temperature – making it the perfect make ahead dish and picnic favorite!

 

4 T. extra-virgin olive oil

5 oz chopped baby spinach (about 4 cups)

3 cups thinly sliced green onions

3 cups finely chopped fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems

2 cups finely chopped fresh parsley leaves

1 cup finely chopped fresh dill leaves and tender stems

12 large eggs

2 T. all-purpose flour

2 tsp. kosher salt

1 1/2 tsp. ground turmeric

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

 

Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional) Preheat the oven to 375°F [190°C] and set an oven rack in the middle position. In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 Tbsp of the oil over medium-high heat. Add the spinach and green onions and cook until softened and wilted, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool for 10 minutes. Add the cilantro, parsley, and dill and stir to combine. In another bowl, whisk the eggs until lightly beaten. Add the flour, salt, turmeric, and pepper and whisk until smooth. Pour the mixture into the bowl with the herbs and stir until combined. Add the remaining 3 Tbsp of oil to a 9 in [23 cm] square pan and tilt the pan to coat the bottom and sides. Pour the egg mixture into the pan and transfer to the oven. Bake until the eggs are just set, about 30 minutes. Let cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting into 16 squares. Serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with mint leaves before serving, if desired. Store, refrigerated, in a Stasher bag or an airtight container for up to 3 days.

 

To fry the kuku instead of baking::  Preheat 2 Tablespoons of olive oil over medium high heat in a 12 inch skillet. When the oil begins to ripple, pour half of the kuku mixture into the pan, lower heat to medium and cook until the kuku is set on the bottom and beginning to set on the top. Use the flat end of a spatula to divide the kuku into wedges. Flip one wedge at at time and continue to cook until the kuku is fully set and there is no raw egg in the middle. Move the cooked kuku onto a plate and repeat with the other half of the batter, adding more olive oil before you add the batter.

Smoked Salmon Bowl

Smoked Salmon Bowl

Smoked Salmon Bowl

 

1 C. packed baby kale

¼ tsp. olive oil

2 large eggs

â…› tsp. sea salt

â…› tsp. ground black pepper

2 ounces smoked salmon

¼ avocado, pitted and sliced

 

Preheat a nonstick pan on the stove over medium heat. Add the kale and olive oil to the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the kale is wilted. Season with a pinch each of salt and pepper to taste, and transfer to a serving bowl. Place the skillet back on the stove to cook the eggs. Whisk together the eggs, salt, pepper, and 1 T. of milk. Add this mixture to the pan and scramble to your desired firmness. Place the scrambled eggs in the bowl with the kale, top with smoked salmon and sliced avocado, and serve.

 

337 calories, 21g fat, 5g fiber

Slow Cooker Prosciutto Eggs with Kale

Slow Cooker Prosciutto Eggs with Kale

Slow Cooker Prosciutto Eggs with Kale

 

4 C. Kale, coarsely chopped

1 ½ C. Marinara Sauce

2 slices Prosciutto, chopped

4 large eggs

 

Put the kale in the slow cooker. Spoon the marinara sauce over the top, then scatter in the prosciutto. Crack the eggs and carefully place them over the marinara sauce mixture, spacing them evenly apart. Cover the slow cooker and cook on the high setting for 1 to 11/2 hours, until the kale softens and the egg whites are cooked through but the yolks are still soft. Serve immediately.

 

4 servings

Calories: 222

Fat: 8g

Fiber: 1g

Green Shakshuka

Green Shakshuka

Green Shakshuka

 

2 T. olive oil

1/2 medium onion, diced

4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

9 ounces brussels sprouts, shaved or finely sliced

1 zucchini, grated

1 tsp. cumin

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

2 C. packed baby spinach

5 large eggs

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 large avocado, for garnish

 

Heat olive oil in a sauté pan on medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Add the garlic and cook an additional minute. Add the shaved brussels sprouts and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently. When the brussels sprouts have softened, add the zucchini and spices and stir for another minute. Add the baby spinach and stir until it just starts to wilt, then turn the heat to low. Flatten the mixture with a spatula and create 5 small wells, then crack the eggs into each well. Cook until the eggs are done to your liking. You can also add a lid to steam and cook the eggs faster. Sprinkle the fresh cilantro on top and garnish with sliced avocado.

Poached Eggs on Spinach with Prosciutto

Poached Eggs on Spinach with Prosciutto

Poached Eggs on Spinach with Prosciutto

 

4 eggs

2 garlic cloves

2 T. olive oil

1 lb spinach

½ lb prosciutto slices

salt and pepper to taste

 

Assemble, prepare, and measure ingredients. Crack eggs into teaC. or ramekins. Thinly slice garlic. Line a plate with paper towels. Bring a small saucepan of water to a boil. Turn down heat, make a whirlpool with a wooden spoon, and gently slide in two eggs. Set a timer for 3 minutes. When eggs are poached, carefully remove them to the plate with a slotted spoon. Repeat with the other two eggs. In a skillet large enough to hold all the spinach, warm olive oil over medium heat and stir in garlic. Sauté garlic very briefly, then toss spinach in by the handful, adding more as it wilts. Once spinach has all wilted, turn off heat. Season with salt and pepper, remove to a bowl, and keep warm. In the same skillet, add some olive oil if necessary and quickly crisp prosciutto slices, about 30 seconds per side.  To serve, make a nest of spinach on each of four plates. Top with a poached egg, season with salt and pepper, and serve with a couple of prosciutto slices on the side.

Baked Savory Custard with Cheese

Baked Savory Custard with Cheese

Baked Savory Custard with Cheese

2 C. cream, half-and-half or milk

1 sprig thyme, optional

1 clove garlic, optional

3 eggs plus 2 yolks

Pinch cayenne

½ tsp. salt

½ cup grated semihard cheese, like Gruyère, Comté or Emmenthal

½ cup grated Parmesan

 

Put cream in a small pot with thyme and garlic, if you’re using them. Cook just until it begins to steam. Heat oven to 300 degrees and set a kettle of water to boil. Put eggs, cayenne and salt in a medium bowl and whisk or beat until blended; stir in the cheese. Remove thyme and garlic from cream, then add cream gradually to egg mixture, whisking constantly. Pour mixture into a 1-quart dish or into 4 ramekins or custard C.. Put dish or ramekins in a deep baking pan and pour boiling water in, to within about 1 inch of top of dish or ramekins. Bake until mixture is not quite set; it should jiggle a bit in middle. This will take about 30 minutes for ramekins and longer for baking dish; also, cream sets faster than milk. Serve warm, at room temperature, or cold within a few hours of baking.

Fried Eggs with Spicy Spinach and Quinoa

Fried Eggs with Spicy Spinach and Quinoa

Fried Eggs with Spicy Spinach and Quinoa

1/2 cup quinoa

2 T. butter

2 T. olive oil

4 eggs

1/2 lb spinach

1 tsp. harissa paste or chili flakes

salt

pepper

 

Assemble and measure ingredients. Bring 1 cup/250 mL salted water to a boil in a small saucepan. Add quinoa, cover, turn down heat to low, and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until quinoa forms little “tails.” Remove from heat. If there is any remaining water, drain quinoa in a fine-mesh sieve. Set aside in saucepan or sieve, uncovered. Heat two heavy-bottomed skillets over medium heat. Melt 1 T. of butter with 1 T. of olive oil in each skillet. Turn down heat to low under one skillet. Crack eggs into it and cook very slowly, until whites are opaque and yolks are still runny, about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, add several handfuls of spinach to the other skillet and allow to wilt. Add remaining spinach, handful by handful, as space allows. When spinach has all wilted, stir in harissa paste (or chili flakes). Season with salt and pepper. To serve, divide spicy spinach among four bowls, spoon quinoa over top, and top with a fried egg. Drizzle pan juices over top and serve.

Mushroom Bacon, Garlic Croutons and Poached Egg Salad

Mushroom Bacon, Garlic Croutons and Poached Egg Salad

Mushroom Bacon, Garlic Croutons and Poached Egg Salad

1 lb / 450g mushrooms, sliced about 1/4″ thick.  Large brown ones are great.

salt and freshly ground pepper

1/2 tsp. paprika

1/2 tsp. sugar or a drizzle of honey or agave

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

olive oil

2 cloves garlic, sliced thin

2-3 pieces of stale bread (about 1 cup, once sliced)

4 very fresh eggs

water

white vinegar

1 head of butter or romaine lettuce, torn into bite sized pieces

 

Dressing

 

1 garlic clove or 1 tsp. shallot, minced

1.5 T. olive oil

1 T. white wine vinegar or lemon juice

1/2 tsp. mustard

salt and pepper

 

Preheat oven to 350F / 175C.  Toss mushrooms with a drizzle of olive oil, about 1 tsp. salt, some freshly ground pepper, paprika, sugar and garlic powder.  Line baking pan with parchment paper.  Scatter mushrooms in a single layer across pan.  Use two pans (if you have them) so the mushrooms will bake in a single layer.  Roast for 15-20 minutes, til edges are just beginning to get browned.  Flip mushrooms and bake for another 15-20 minutes, til all the water has evaporated out and mushrooms look chewy, almost like bacon. Meanwhile, cut bread into cubes, or tear by hand if using good crusty bread.  Heat about 2 Tbs olive oil over medium-high heat in skillet.  Add sliced garlic and fry 30 seconds, then add bread and quickly toss to coat lightly with oil.  Add a bit more if some pieces look dry.  Add a pinch of salt.  Fry til golden brown, stirring occasionally.  It should take 5-10 minutes.

 

Make dressing – combine garlic, olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, and mustard.  Give a good whisk.  Season with salt and pepper to taste.  Bring a medium saucepan of water to a low boil.  Add about a Tbs white vinegar and a good pinch of salt.  If eggs are very fresh, omit the vinegar.  Adjust heat so water is just simmering.  Crack an egg into a small bowl.  Using a long handle, give the water a good swirl, then gently drop egg into vortex.  Cook for about 2 – 2.5 minutes, until white is just set and yolk is still runny.  Remove and drain on a paper towel, then poach remaining 3 eggs.   You can poach eggs in advance – just undercook them slightly and reheat in simmering water for about 10 seconds before serving. Toss lettuce with dressing and croutons.  Plate up with some mushrooms, a poached egg and a pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper.

Artichoke Soufflés

Artichoke Soufflés

Artichoke Soufflés

4 Eggs

¼ tsp. hot pepper sauce

¼ C. flour

Pinch freshly ground nutmeg

1½ C. milk

1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and coarsely chopped

1 C. grated fontina cheese

1 C. grated cheddar cheese

½ C. chopped green onion or chives

 

Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease eight ½-C. ramekins. Whisk together the eggs and hot pepper sauce in a large bowl until blended. Add the flour and nutmeg and mix well. Whisk in the milk, then stir in the artichoke hearts, cheeses, and green onion. Spoon the mixture into the ramekins, filling them to about ¼ inch below the rim. Set the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake until puffed and nicely browned, 45 to 50 minutes. Serve immediately.

Twice-Baked Magic Soufflés

Twice-Baked Magic Soufflés

Twice-Baked Magic Soufflés

5 T. unsalted butter

1/2 cup finely chopped leeks

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 1/2 C. whole milk, warmed

1 tsp. kosher salt

1 pinch ground nutmeg

1 1/2 C. grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

1 cup heavy cream

5 eggs, separated

 

Preheat the oven to 425°F and generously grease six 8-ounce ramekins. In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt 1 T. of the butter. Add the leeks and cook, stirring, until soft but not brown, 4 to 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and set aside. Melt the remaining 4 T. of butter over medium heat in the same saucepan that you used for the leeks. When the butter stops foaming, whisk in the flour and cook, whisking, for 1 minute. Whisk in the milk and cook, whisking, until the mixture boils and thickens. Stir in the salt, nutmeg, 1 1/4 C. of the cheese, and the leeks. Transfer a third of the mixture to a bowl, whisk in the cream, and set aside. Whisk the egg yolks into the remaining two-thirds, then transfer the mixture to a large bowl. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a whisk attachment (or in a large bowl with a handheld mixer), beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they hold stiff peaks. Stir a third of the whites into the yolk mixture to lighten it, then fold in the remaining two-thirds until no streaks of white remain. Divide the mixture among the greased ramekins, smooth the tops, then run the tip of your finger around the inner edge of each ramekin (this will help the soufflé rise higher and straighter). Arrange the ramekins in a baking dish and pour enough hot water into the baking dish to come half an inch up the side of the ramekins. Transfer to the oven and bake until puffed, deep golden brown, and set within, about 25 minutes. Remove from the oven, remove the ramekins from the water bath, and let the soufflés cool (they will deflate). Run a knife around the inner edge of each ramekin, then turn the soufflés out into a gratin dish and pour the reserved cream mixture over and around the soufflés. Top each with some of the reserved Parmigiano. At this point, the soufflés can be covered with plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to 24 hours (I’m telling you, this recipe is magic). When you’re ready to bake the soufflés a second time, preheat the oven to 425°F. Bake until the soufflés are puffed and browned (they will puff as much as—if not more than—the first time they were baked), about 10 to 15 minutes. Serve immediately.

Baked Eggs Napoleon

Baked Eggs Napoleon

Baked Eggs Napoleon

12 tater tots, cooked and crumbled

1 tsp. butter

1 T. jalapeno, seeded and finely diced

1/4 C. sweet onion, diced

1 clove garlic, diced

1/4 C. mozzarella cheese, shredded

2 eggs

salt and pepper to taste

 

Preheat oven to 350f. Preheat a small skillet over medium high heat.  Melt butter in the skillet and add the onion and jalapeno. Cook 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until starting to soften. Add the garlic and cook another minute, stirring occasionally. Spray two small ramekin dishes with non-stick spray. Divide the crumbled tots between the two dishes. Stir the onion, chile, garlic mixture into the dishes. Top with the mozzarella. Crack an egg into each ramekin. Season with salt and pepper. Bake in the oven on the middle rack for 5 minutes. Broil on high for 5-6 minutes or until the eggs are set.  Rest for 5 minutes before serving and warn diners that the ramekin is still hot. Notes: For extra crispy potatoes, put the ramekins in the oven for 3 minutes after adding the onion and garlic, then proceed as written.

Fried Eggs with Ramps and Bacon

Fried Eggs with Ramps and Bacon

Fried Eggs with Ramps and Bacon

4 slices of bacon, cut into small pieces

8 ramps, aka wild leeks, trimmed and cleaned

2 eggs

salt and pepper to taste

chili pepper flakes to taste

 

Cook the bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes, and set aside reserving the grease in the pan. Add the ramps and sauté until tender and slightly golden brown, about 3-4 minutes, and set aside with the bacon. Crack the eggs in the pan and cook until the whites are set and the bottom is slightly golden brown, about 2-4 minutes. Serve the eggs with the bacon and sautéed ramps on the side and season everything with salt, pepper and chili pepper flakes to taste.

New Mex Migas

New Mex Migas

New Mex Migas

2 T. unsalted butter

â…“ C. chopped green onion (green parts only)

¼ C. chopped roasted and peeled green chile (or more to taste)

8 large eggs (beaten until smooth)

salt (to taste)

4 ounce tortilla chips (about 2 3/4 C.) preferably stale

2 C. grated cotija cheese (divided)

½ C. cooked black beans

¼ C. Mexican sour cream (plus more to taste)

1¼ C. coarsely chopped cilantro

 

Melt the butter over medium heat in a large nonstick skillet. Add the green onions and cook until they wilt slightly, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the green chile and cook until fragrant, another minute or two. Add the beaten eggs and let sit until they just begin to set, about 1 minute. Salt lightly, sprinkle the tortilla chips over top of the eggs and stir, folding the unset egg over the chips. Cook quickly (to keep the chips from softening), stirring until the eggs are almost set, then stir in half of the cotija cheese. When the eggs are set to your taste, an additional 2 to 3 minutes, divide the mixture evenly among 4 to 6 heated plates, or serve it family style on a large platter. Spoon over the black beans, then the remaining cheese, sour cream and the cilantro. Serve immediately.

Instant Pot Ramekin Eggs

Instant Pot Ramekin Eggs

Instant Pot Ramekin Eggs

1 T. ghee, plus more for greasing

2 C. mushrooms, chopped (or other veggies of your choosing)

salt

1 T. chives, chopped

3 eggs

3 T. heavy cream

 

Using the sauté setting of a multicooker, melt ghee, then sauté mushrooms together, until tender, caramelized, and reduced to 3/4 cup. Season with salt to taste. Meanwhile, grease the ramekins. When mushrooms are cooked, divide into ramekins. Top each with a teaspoon of chives, a freshly cracked egg, and a T. of cream.   The multicooker pots are nonstick, and so you shouldn’t need to wash them. Simply add 2 C. of water to the bottom of the Instant Pot.  Add the trivet, and place the egg-filled ramekins on top. Secure and lock the lid of the multicooker. Pressure cook on low for 1-2 minutes. Quick release and immediately remove the top when the pressure has normalized. Carefully remove the ramekins. They’ll be hot, so use heatproof oven mitts or mason jar lifters (if you have them).

Olive Oil Fried Eggs with Kale

Olive Oil Fried Eggs with Kale

Olive Oil Fried Eggs with Kale

Olive oil

1 large bunch of kale, leaves removed from stems and chopped

1 garlic clove, peeled and diced

2 green onions, trimmed and sliced

1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper

Juice from 1/4 lemon

 

2-3 T. olive oil

2 large eggs

 

1 dollop of harissa, for garnish on the side

Toast, for serving

 

In a medium pan or pot, set over medium heat, add few tsp. of olive oil. When warm, add the kale, garlic, green onions, crushed red pepper and a few pinches of salt. Give it a stir and cook until wilted, about 3 to 5 minutes. Continue cooking until softened. Give it a taste and adjust the salt to your liking. Turn the flame to very low and cover the pan or pot.  In a small skillet (I used a non-stick), set over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Crack the first egg into a small bowl (I find it easier to add it to the pan this way). When the oil is hot, slowly pour the egg into the pan. Fry the egg for about 2 to 3 minutes, until the egg white edges are lacy and crispy and the egg yolks has set. Gently transfer to a bed of paper towels and repeat with the second egg.  Divide the kale amongst the two plates and top with the fried eggs. Garnish with the dollop of harissa and add toast to plates. For heat, try adding some aji verde (Peruvian green sauce).

Easy Pre-Cooked Egg Cups

Easy Pre-Cooked Egg Cups

Easy Pre-Cooked Egg Cups

 

For Turkey Spinach Egg Cups

 

Cooking spray

6 slices roasted turkey breast lunch meat (Applegate)

1 1/2 cups chopped baby spinach

6 eggs

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

 

For Sweet Potato Chive Egg Cups

 

Cooking spray

1 small sweet potato

6 eggs

2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

 

For Ham and Cheddar Egg Cups

 

Cooking spray

6 slices ham lunch meat (Applegate)

6 eggs

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

 

For Caprese Egg Cups

 

1 cup sundried tomatoes

Boiling water

6 eggs

6 ounces fresh mozzarella, chopped (or use pearl-size balls)

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 cup chopped fresh basil

 

For Turkey Spinach Egg Cups: Preheat oven to 350°F. Liberally spray six cups of a regular size muffin tin with cooking spray. Line each of one of the sprayed cups with one slice of the turkey breast. Divide the chopped spinach evenly between each cup, pressing down to pack in. Carefully break an egg into each cup—it’s okay if a little bit spills out of the turkey “bowl.” In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle evenly over the egg cups. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes (for a soft yolk), or 12-15 minutes (for a hard yolk). Let cool for 10 minutes in the muffin tin, then use a knife to loosen the sides of the cups and lift them out with a spoon.

 

For Sweet Potato Chive Egg Cups: Preheat oven to 350°F. Liberally spray six cups of a regular size muffin tin with cooking spray. Using the large holes in a box grater, grate the entire sweet potato (you should get about 1 1/2 cups of grated sweet potato). Scoop 1/4 cup of grated sweet potato into the bottom of each greased muffin cup. Press down to form a crust. Carefully break an egg into each cup. Evenly divide the chives over top of each cup. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle evenly over the egg cups. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes (for a soft yolk), or 12-15 minutes (for a hard yolk). Let cool for 10 minutes in the muffin tin, then use a knife to loosen the sides of the cups and lift them out with a spoon.

 

For Ham and Cheddar Egg Cups: Preheat oven to 350°F. Liberally spray six cups of a regular size muffin tin with cooking spray. Line each of one of the sprayed cups with one slice of the ham. Carefully break an egg into each cup. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle evenly over the egg cups. Sprinkle cheese evenly over cups. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes (for a soft yolk), or 12-15 minutes (for a hard yolk). Let cool for 10 minutes in the muffin tin, then use a knife to loosen the sides of the cups and lift them out with a spoon.

 

For Caprese Egg Cups: Preheat oven to 350°F. Liberally spray six cups of a regular size muffin tin with cooking spray. Set aside. If using dried tomatoes: Place the sundried tomatoes in a small bowl and cover with boiling water to reconstitute. Set aside for 10 minutes, then drain, squeeze out excess water with a clean kitchen towel, and chop roughly. If using oil-packed tomatoes: Drain from oil and chop roughly.

Divide the sundried tomatoes between the six greased muffin cups. Carefully break an egg into each cup. Then top with 1 ounce of fresh mozzarella each. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle evenly over the egg cups. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes (for a soft yolk), or 12-15 minutes (for a hard yolk). Let cool for 10 minutes in the muffin tin, then use a knife to loosen the sides of the cups and lift them out with a spoon. Sprinkle cups immediately with fresh basil.

Chia Omelet

Chia Omelet

IQS Chia Omelet

I stumbled upon this idea when making an omelet where I’d put in too much milk by accident. I added chia seeds to soak up the liquid (I do the same with casseroles and soups…a few tsp. get everything nice and thick again).

 

1 tsp. olive oil

2 eggs

1 tsp. chia seeds

Basil and oven roasted tomatoes

sea salt and black pepper to taste

 

Beat eggs for one minute then add chia seeds. Warm olive oil in omelet pan. Pour mixture in and swirl until thinly covered. Cook on medium heat and then fold. Remove from pan and serve with basil and tomato. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Baked Ham and Cheese Savory Custard

Baked Ham and Cheese Savory Custard

Baked Ham and Cheese Savory Custard

3 eggs

1 C. milk

1 C. heavy whipping cream

Freshly grated nutmeg to taste

Salt

About 5 1/2 T. butter, softened (or less if you melt the butter first)

1 loaf white bread, crusts removed and cut into 1/2 thick slices

8 ounces thinly sliced ham

1 2/3 C. grated fontina, pecorino or something similar

2/3 C. crated parmesan cheese

 

Preheat the oven to 350, and lightly grease an ovenproof dish.  Whisk the eggs in a bowl and then add the cream and milk along with the nutmeg and a bit of salt.  Dip half of the bread slices in the melted butter and arrange them on the bottom of the dish, overlapping slightly, so that the dish is completely covered.  Pour on half of the egg/milk mixture and allow to sit for 5 minutes of so to give the bread a chance to soak up the milky goodness.  Next, add a layer of half of the ham and top with a layer of half the cheese.  Repeat the process with one more layer of bread, milk, ham and cheese.  Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and crusty.  When finished, allow the custard to cool a bit before serving.

Pima-Papago Cactus and Eggs

Pima-Papago Cactus and Eggs

Pima-Papago Cactus and Eggs

 

2 to 3 5- to 7-inch fresh nopales (prickly pear cactus pads) with thorns removed or 1 7 1/4-ounce can natural cactus in salt water, drained

Salt

4 strips bacon, diced

1/2 C. chopped onion

1/2 to 1 tsp. ground New Mexican red chili or chili powder

4 to 6 eggs

Ground pepper (optional)

 

Rinse fresh nopales well under cold running water and examine carefully to make sure all tiny thorns have been removed.  Trim around the edges with scissors to remove the base of thorns.  Use a sharp knife or vegetable peeler to remove a thin layer of peel.  Rinse again, cut into thin strips, and simmer in lightly salted water for 5 to 6 minutes, until tender.  Rinse and drain.  If using canned nopales, rinse and drain. Cook bacon until crisp in a large skillet over medium-low heat.  Remove with a slotted spoon and reserve. Add onion and chili to the drippings in skillet.  Sauté over medium heat until onion is translucent.  Stir in reserved cactus strips and bacon.  Sauté briefly.  Break desired number of eggs on top of cactus mixture.  Cover tightly and cook over low heat for 5 to 7 minutes, until whites are set and yolks are cooked to taste.  Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper, if desired.

Breakfast Lettuce Cups

Breakfast Lettuce Cups

Breakfast Lettuce Cups

1 lb. breakfast sausage

4 large eggs plus one egg yolk

Salt and pepper

3 green onions thinly sliced

1/2 C. diced sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, diced

1 head Butter lettuce

 

In a small skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until lightly browned, breaking up in small bits. Remove sausage from skillet, leaving a little of the rendered fat in the skillet. Whisk eggs and yolk together and pour into skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Stir constantly, cooking the eggs until cooked through and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Remove eggs from skillet. Spoon the sausage, eggs, green onions and diced sun-dried tomatoes into washed and dried butter lettuce leaves. Enjoy

Frico and Polenta Fried Eggs

Frico and Polenta Fried Eggs

Frico and Polenta Fried Eggs

¼ C. shredded sharp white cheddar cheese

¼ C. grated Parmesan cheese

½ C. cooked creamy polenta, warmed

1 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil

2 large eggs

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

1 C. torn Swiss chard, baby kale, or collard greens

Crushed red pepper flakes, for serving

 

In a small bowl, combine the cheddar and Parmesan. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Sprinkle the cheese mixture into two 4-inch rounds in the bottom of the skillet and cook until the cheese starts to melt and become firm, 1 to 2 minutes. Using a small spoon, gently spread the polenta over the cheese rounds and make a well in the center of each polenta mound. Evenly drizzle the olive oil all over the polenta, crack an egg into each well, and season both with salt and pepper. Cook, rotating the skillet occasionally, until the egg whites set around the yolk and begin to crisp at the edges, about 2 minutes. Add the greens around the eggs, cover the skillet, and cook until the greens have wilted, 1 minute more.  Remove skillet from heat and serve. Sprinkled with red pepper flakes.

Buttery Croissant Strata with Spinach and Prosciutto

Buttery Croissant Strata with Spinach and Prosciutto

Buttery Croissant Strata with Spinach and Prosciutto

3 tsp. salted butter, thinly sliced, plus more for greasing

6 croissants, roughly torn into thirds

8 large eggs

3 C. whole milk

1 tsp. Dijon mustard

1 tsp. chopped fresh sage

¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

12 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry

1½ C. shredded Gouda cheese

1½ C. shredded Gruyère cheese 3 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto, torn

 

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish. Arrange the croissants in the bottom of the baking dish and cover with the sliced butter. Bake until lightly toasted, 5 to 8 minutes. Remove and let cool in the pan until no longer hot to the touch, about 10 minutes. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, mustard, sage, nutmeg, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Stir in the spinach and ¾ C. of each cheese. Carefully pour the mixture over the toasted croissants, distributing it evenly. Top with the remaining cheese and add the prosciutto to finish. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight. When ready to bake, remove the strata from the fridge and preheat the oven to 350°F. 5. Bake until the center of the strata is set, about 45 minutes. If the croissants begin to brown before the strata is finished cooking, cover with foil and continue baking. 6. Remove the strata from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tuscan Frittata Affogata

Tuscan Frittata Affogata

Tuscan Frittata Affogata

10 eggs

1/2 C. grated pecorino romano cheese

Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

2 T. plus 1 tsp. olive oil

8 oz. mild Italian sausage, casings removed

1 small yellow onion, cut into 1/4-inch slices

1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1/4-inch slices

1 C. tomato sauce

6 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

6 to 8 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced

 

Preheat an oven to 500°F. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, pecorino romano, salt and pepper. Set aside. In the deep half of a frittata pan over medium-high heat, warm 1 Tbs. of the olive oil. Add the sausage and cook, breaking apart the larger pieces, until browned and cooked through, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer to a bowl. Wipe out the pan with paper towels. In the same pan over medium-high heat, warm 1 Tbs. of the olive oil. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until the onion is translucent, 3 to 4 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the pepper is tender, about 10 minutes more. Add the sausage to the pan and pour in the egg mixture. Cook, using a rubber spatula to lift the cooked edges and allow the uncooked eggs to flow underneath, 2 to 3 minutes. Continue cooking until the eggs begin to set, 4 to 6 minutes more. Meanwhile, in the shallow half of the frittata pan over low heat, warm the 1 tsp. olive oil. Place the shallow pan upside down on top of the deep pan and flip the frittata into the shallow pan. Cook, covered, for 2 to 3 minutes. Uncover the pan and pour the tomato sauce onto the center of the frittata, gently spreading it to the edges. Arrange the mozzarella on top. Transfer the pan to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted, 3 to 5 minutes. Slide the frittata onto a serving plate, sprinkle with the basil and serve immediately. Serves 8 to 10.

Sausage and Piquillo Pepper Frittata with Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato Sauce

Sausage and Piquillo Pepper Frittata with Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato Sauce

Sausage and Piquillo Pepper Frittata with Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato Sauce

 

1/2 C. pasta sauce

2 T. canola oil (or other neutral-flavored oil)

1 sweet or spicy Italian pork sausage (preferably flavored with fennel; about 4 ounces)

4 small jarred onions, quartered (about 1 ounce or 1/4 cup)

2 roasted Piquillo peppers, ripped into small pieces (about 2 T.)

1 T. plus 1 tsp. ghee or unsalted butter

12 large eggs

2 tsp. kosher salt

2 ounces fresh mozzarella, shredded (about 1/4 cup)

Freshly ground black pepper

 

Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 45O°F. Heat the pasta sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring often to keep it from scorching. Heat the oil in a large ovenproof nonstick skillet over high heat for 2 to 3 minutes, until the oil’s almost smoking (you will begin to smell the oil at that point). Slash the sausage casing with a knife and squeeze the sausage meat out of the casing and into the skillet; discard the casing. Cook the sausage, stirring occasionally and breaking it into small pieces as it cooks, until it’s just browned, about 5 minutes. Add the onions and sauté the sausage and onions together for 2 to 3 minutes, until the sausage is cooked through and the onions are golden brown. Transfer the sausage and onions into a bowl and stir in the Piquillo peppers.  Wipe out the pan you cooked the sausages in, then add the ghee and heat it over high heat for about 2 minutes. Lightly beat the eggs with the kosher salt and pour them into the pan. Reduce the heat to medium-high. As the eggs cook, use a heatproof rubber spatula to draw the edges inward, away from the sides of the pan, tilting the pan so the raw egg runs into the space created. Continue cooking in this way for 4 to 5 minutes, until no egg runs off when you tilt the pan, but the top layer of the frittata is still runny and wet looking. Spoon the sausage and onions over the eggs in clumps, leaving room to see the egg poking through in spots and a rim of egg around the edge. Sprinkle the mozzarella between, not on top of, the sausage mixture, and bake the frittata until it’s just set but not browned, 3 to 4 minutes, depending on how well done you like your eggs. Run a spatula under the frittata to make sure it’s not sticking. Shake the pan slightly to further loosen it, slide it onto a large plate, and season it with freshly ground black pepper. Serve the frittata with the tomato sauce on the side.

IQS Breakfast Energy Meffins

IQS Breakfast Energy Meffins

IQS Breakfast Energy Meffins

coconut oil or butter for greasing

1 lb. ground pork or beef

1 C. chopped leftover or par-cooked-and-frozen veggies, such as carrot, squash, peas and zucchini

12 eggs

8 oz. cottage cheese

several T. freshly chopped herbs (I use sage and thyme) and/or 2 tsp. dried herbs and spices (perhaps a pinch of nutmeg)

handful of grated Cheddar cheese

 

Preheat the oven to 3 500 F and lightly grease a 12-cup muffin pan. Brown the meat in a frying pan with a little oil, then remove and set aside. Sauté the veggies in the pan using the fat from the meat. Beat the eggs in a bowl, then add the meat, veggies, cottage cheese, herbs and spices. Spoon into the muffin C. and sprinkle with the grated cheese. Cook for 15-20 minutes. Best served warm.

IQS: Green Eggs with Ham

IQS: Green Eggs with Ham

IQS: Green Eggs with Ham

4 eggs

pinch salt

splash milk or cream

knob butter

3 T. Kale Pesto

toast, halved cherry tomatoes and slices of grilled ham, to serve

 

Use a fork to lightly mix the eggs, salt and milk or cream in a small bowl – not too much as you want to see a bit of yolk streaked through. Melt the butter in a frypan over medium heat, then pour in the egg mixture. Once the eggs ‘take’ a little, gently fold and lift using a flat wooden spatula – don’t stir. Pause, then fold again. After a minute, add the pesto and fold a little more until the whole lot is just soft and still a bit runny (about another minute). Remove from the heat and let sit, then gently stir to ensure it is cooked through. Serve with toast, cherry tomato halves and a few slices of grilled ham.

Stinging Nettles with Grits and an Egg

Stinging Nettles with Grits and an Egg

Stinging Nettles with Grits and an Egg

1 C. grits

4 C. water

Cheese

 

Butter

4 eggs

3 C. stinging nettle very lightly packed

olive oil

salt and pepper

 

Cook grits to package directions, mine called for 1 C. grits to be rinsed, then placed into 4 C. boiling water and simmered for 30 minutes.  I add cheese to mine; I like sharp cheese like Beecher’s Flagship, but I encourage you to find your favorite local cheddar.  Stir in a little butter and salt and pepper to your taste.  In the meantime, fry or poach four eggs.  I like mine over easy, but poached eggs would be fantastic on this.  Rinse the stinging nettle.  I used tongs to transfer mine to a salad spinner, rinsed in the basket and spun it around until dry.  Heat olive oil in a large pan, then dump nettles in.  Watch out for stingers!  If I were to cut the leaves off first, I would use gardening gloves to hold them while I removed the leaves after washing.  Heat leaves until just wilted and plate as shown.

Scrambled Eggs with Avocado, Pea Shoots and Sesame Seeds

Scrambled Eggs with Avocado, Pea Shoots and Sesame Seeds

Scrambled Eggs with Avocado, Pea Shoots and Sesame Seeds

1 T. extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

8 eggs, beaten

Toast

1 large ripe avocado, sliced

1 heaping handful of pea shoots

Black sesame seeds, for serving

1 lemon or lime, cut into wedges

Coarse sea salt, such as Maldon

Hot sauce or sriracha, for serving

 

Heat the oil in a medium nonstick or regular skillet over medium-low heat. Add the eggs and let them set to cook a bit, about 40 seconds. Use a heatproof spatula to scoot the eggs across the pan, back and forth, to cook into medium curds. For smaller curds (and the creamiest eggs), use a whisk, moving the eggs constantly over low heat until the eggs are lightly cooked but still pale and creamy, just shy of runny (if you can smell a cooked egg aroma in the air, they’ve gone too far).  Serve with toast on a plate or shallow bowl, with avocado, pea shoots, and sesame seeds. Squeeze the lemon over the top, sprinkle with salt, and drizzle with more oil, hot sauce, or anything else you desire.

Pantry-Friendly Eggs Poached in Tomato Sauce

Pantry-Friendly Eggs Poached in Tomato Sauce

Pantry-Friendly Eggs Poached in Tomato Sauce

 

¼ C. dehydrated Onion

¼ C. dehydrated Bell Pepper

2 tsp. granulated Garlic

1 tsp. Cumin

½ tsp. Black Pepper

1 T. Paprika

½ C. Tomato Powder

2 C. Water

8 Eggs

 

Add all dry ingredients to a bowl and whisk together. Pour in 2 C. water to make your tomato sauce.  Heat sauce to medium in a frying pan.  Crack eggs into sauce (without touching), cover and poach for 10-12 minutes.

Dutch Oven Quiche

Dutch Oven Quiche

Dutch Oven Quiche

 

1 1/2 c. shredded cheese

2 c. milk

1/2 c. biscuit mix

1 onion, chopped

1 lb. diced ham

4 eggs

Oil

seasonings to taste

 

Season Dutch oven with oil or line with foil. Sprinkle ham, cheese, and onion on the bottom. Mix other ingredients together and pour over meat and cheese mixture. Bake for 35 minutes with 14 coals on top and 8 on the bottom. Serves 8. May be adapted for a box oven.

ATK Spanish Tortilla with Garlic Mayonnaise

ATK Spanish Tortilla with Garlic Mayonnaise

ATK Spanish Tortilla with Garlic Mayonnaise

2 large egg yolks

2 tsp. Dijon mustard

2 tsp. lemon juice

1 garlic clove, minced

¾ C. vegetable oil

1 T. water

½ tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

1.4 C. extra-virgin olive oil

 

1 ½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled, quartered lengthwise, and sliced  crosswise 1/8 inch thick

1 small onion, halved and sliced thin

6 T. plus 1 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper

8 large eggs

1/2 C. jarred roasted red peppers, rinsed, patted dry, and cut into 1/2-inch 2 pieces

1/2 C. frozen peas, thawed

 

FOR THE GARLIC MAYONNAISE: Process egg yolks, mustard, lemon juice, and garlic in food processor until combined, about 10 seconds. With processor running, slowly drizzle in vegetable oil, about 1 minute. Transfer mixture to medium bowl and whisk in water, salt, and pepper. Whisking constantly, slowly drizzle in olive oil. (Mayonnaise can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Makes 1 1/4 cups.) FOR THE TORTILLA: Toss potatoes, onion, 1/4 C. oil, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/4 tsp. pepper in large bowl. Heat 2 T. oil in 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add potato mixture and reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender, 22 to 28 minutes. In now-empty bowl, whisk eggs with 1/2 tsp. salt. Fold in hot potatoes, roasted red peppers, and peas. Heat remaining 1 tsp. oil in now-empty7 skillet over medium-high heat until just smoking. Add egg-potato mixture and cook, shaking pan and folding mixture constantly, for 15 seconds. Smooth top of mixture and reduce heat to medium. Cover and cook, gently shaking pan every 30 seconds, until bottom is golden brown, and top is lightly set, about 2 minutes. Using rubber spatula, loosen tortilla from pan. Shake pan gently until tortilla slides around freely, then slide tortilla onto large plate. Invert tortilla onto second large plate, then slide back into skillet, browned side up. Tuck in tortilla edges and continue to cook over medium heat, gently shaking often, until second side is golden brown, about 2 minutes. Slide tortilla onto cutting board and let cool for 15 minutes. (Tortilla can be held at room temperature for up to 4 hours.) Cut into wedges or squares and serve warm or at room temperature.

Baked Eggs on Mushrooms

Baked Eggs on Mushrooms

Baked Eggs on Mushrooms

2 T. Butter

1 clove Garlic, minced

2 C. sliced Button or Cremini Mushrooms

¾ tsp. Fresh Thyme

½ C. grated Fontina or Mozzarella Cheese

2 Eggs

Pinch each Salt & Pepper

 

Preheat oven to 400. In a smallish oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic, mushrooms and thyme. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms soften, about 3 minutes. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the mushrooms. Now crack the eggs on top, side by side. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, which gives firm whites and slightly runny yolks. Adjust the time based on your egg preference. Sprinkle with salt and pepper before serving.

Baked Eggs with Lemon, Cream and Poppyseeds

Baked Eggs with Lemon, Cream and Poppyseeds

Baked Eggs with Lemon, Cream and Poppyseeds

This simple dish deserves the best, freshest eggs you can find. serve it with a crusty baguette, split down the middle and lightly toasted, for scooping and dipping. Add a small green salad and you have the makings of an elegant lunch or brunch. Note that you’ll need to use 4½- to 5-inch ramekins for individual servings.

 

6 teaspoons Lemon-Infused Olive Oil, extra-virgin olive oil, or melted butter, divided

1 medium shallot, finely minced, divided

2 tablespoons finely grated lemon zest, divided

1 ounce Parmesan cheese, finely grated (about ½ cup), divided

¾ cup heavy cream, divided

Kosher salt

8 eggs, at room temperature

2 teaspoons poppy seeds, divided

4 teaspoons finely chopped fresh chives, divided

 

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Thoroughly coat the bottom and sides of 4 ovenproof ramekins or baking dishes, using 1½ teaspoons of the oil for each. Put the ramekins on a baking sheet with sides (to make moving them in and out of the oven easier). Divide the shallot among the ramekins, adding no more than 2 teaspoons per dish. Add 1½ teaspoons of the zest and 1 tablespoon of the cheese to each ramekin, cover with 1 tablespoon of the cream, and season with a pinch of salt. Carefully crack 2 eggs into each dish, starting with a new one if the yolk breaks. Pour 2 tablespoons of the remaining cream over each yolk and sprinkle it with 1 tablespoon of the remaining cheese, ½ teaspoon poppy seeds, and a pinch of salt. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the eggs are just slightly set. Garnish each egg with 1 teaspoon of the chives and serve immediately.

One Pan Breakfast

One Pan Breakfast

One Pan Breakfast

4 oz. diced pancetta

4 oz. mushrooms, sliced

1 small leek—trimmed, halved and sliced

4 T. butter

4 eggs

chopped fresh parsley

4 slices toast

 

In skillet, cook pancetta over medium-high until crispy, 3 minutes. Add mushrooms, leek and 2 T. butter. Cook, stirring often, until softened, about 5 minutes; transfer to bowl. Cook eggs in remaining 2 T. butter over medium-low until whites set. Spoon pancetta mixture around eggs; top with parsley. Season. Serve with toast

Gill’s Poached Leek and Blue Cheese Tart

Gill’s Poached Leek and Blue Cheese Tart

Gill’s Poached Leek and Blue Cheese Tart

1 1/2 C. all-purpose flour

1/2 C. (1 stick) unsalted butter

a pinch of sea salt

1 egg yolk

2 to 3 tablespoons cold milk

 

2 or 3 medium leeks (about 1 pound), white part only, washed and sliced into 1/2 inch rounds

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

2/3 C. crumbled good blue cheese

2 eggs

2 egg yolks

1 1/3 C. heavy cream

 

First make the pastry. Put the flour, butter, and salt in a food processor and pulse until the mixture looks like breadcrumbs. I don’t have a food processor, so I do this by hand with a pastry blender. The butter should be fresh from the fridge and cold. If you’re going to blend the butter and flour by hand, cut the butter into 1/4-inch cubes first. Once the mixture is blended add the egg yolk, then pour in the milk in a gradual stream. As soon as the dough starts coming together, stop adding the milk. Turn out and knead lightly a couple of times, then wrap the dough in plastic and chill in the fridge for half an hour. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. On a lightly floured surface, roll the pastry out quite thinly and use it to line a 10-inch two-part tart pan, letting the excess pastry hang over the edges. Line the pastry with parchment paper, fill with dried beans, and blind bake in the oven for 20 minutes. Take the tart out of the oven and remove the paper and beans. Lightly prick the bottom all over with a fork, and return to the oven for 5 minutes, until the bottom is dry but not too colored. Carefully trim off the excess pastry with a small, sharp knife. Turn the oven temperature up to 350 degrees. To make the filling, put the leeks into a saucepan with 1/2 C. water, the butter, and some salt and pepper. Bring to a low simmer, then cover and cook gently, stirring once or twice, for about 10 minutes, until just tender. Drain the leeks, reserving the cooking liquid. Spread the cooked leeks on the baked tart shell and cover with the crumbled cheese. Give the leek liquid a chance to cool, then put it in a bowl with the eggs, egg yolks, and cream. Beat the mixture with a whisk until smooth, then season with salt and pepper. Pour the custard over the cheese and leeks. Put the tart back into the oven and bake for about 30 minutes- the custard should be just set when you gently shake the pan. Serve warm or cold.

Prosciutto & Poached Egg Tartine

Prosciutto & Poached Egg Tartine

Prosciutto & Poached Egg Tartine

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

2 eggs

2 T. purchased or homemade pesto

2 slices country-style bread, lightly toasted

1/2 cup (1/2 oz./15 g) arugula

2 oz. (60 g) thinly sliced prosciutto

 

Pour water into a large sauté pan to a depth of 3 inches (7.5 cm), add a pinch of salt and bring to a simmer over medium heat. One at a time, break an egg into a small ramekin and carefully slip the egg into the water, then adjust the heat so the water barely simmers. Poach until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness, about 3 minutes for runny yolks or up to 5 minutes for firmer yolks. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the eggs to a paper towel–lined plate. Spread the pesto evenly over the toasts. Layer the arugula and prosciutto on the pesto and top each sandwich with a poached egg. Season the eggs with salt and pepper and serve immediately. Serves 2.

Instant Pot Fried Rice

Instant Pot Fried Rice

Instant Pot Fried Rice

2 cups Long Grain Rice, uncooked

2½ cups Vegetable Broth

2 Carrots

3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil

½ cup Frozen Peas

2 Medium Eggs

Salt & Pepper to taste

 

Add rice and vegetable stock in your instant pot. Mix so the rice is spread around evenly. Throw in diced carrots and close the lid. Instant Pot Settings: turn the vent to “SEALING” position, press “MANUAL” and adjust the time to 3 minutes. When the instant pot finished cooking, press “CANCEL” button. After 10 minutes, release the pressure manually. Now mix the rice, it will be quite sticky but it should change its texture and lose quite a lot of its stickiness. Move the rice to a side and press the “SAUTE” function. Add oil and frozen peas and sauté for about a minute before mixing everything together. Make a well in the middle of the rice and add beaten eggs. Stir the egg into rice and fry everything together for a further 1-2 minutes before turning off Instant Pot completely. Taste it and if needed, season with salt and pepper. Notes: Remove the inner pot from the instant pot body in order to stop cooking/burning the rice after you are finished.

Instant Pot Egg Bites

Instant Pot Egg Bites

Instant Pot Egg Bites

6 eggs

1 c cheese shredded

1 shallot diced or 2 T. diced onion

1/3 c spinach fresh, diced

1/2 c bell pepper diced, any colors

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp oregano

 

On the stovetop in a pan, med. heat, add shallot/onion, diced fresh spinach, and diced bell pepper, cook for about 2 minutes just until moisture is cooked out. Scramble 6 eggs in a bowl, add vegetables you cooked briefly on the stovetop. Add cup of shredded cheese, any hard cheese works, we use swiss.

Add salt and oregano if desired, whisk all ingredients together with a fork. Spoon or put mixture into a measuring cup and pour egg into egg bite mold. Will fill all 8 spots evenly, just below rim. Cover egg mold with foil. Add 1 1/2 c water into your pressure cooker. Put egg mold on to a trivet with handles and lower down into pot. Close lid and steam valve and set on pressure high for 8 minutes. Allow to naturally release steam for 4 minutes, let out rest of steam and lift trivet with egg mold out. Remove foil and pop egg bites out of mold and on to a plate. Serve and eat immediately for best taste!

Instant Pot Cheesy Egg Bake

Instant Pot Cheesy Egg Bake

Instant Pot Cheesy Egg Bake

6 slices bacon, chopped

2 cups frozen hash browns

6 eggs

¼ cup milk

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon pepper

**optional add-ins: onion, red pepper, spinach, mushrooms, green onions

Chop up bacon into small pieces then sauté in pressure cooker until crispy. Add in any extra veggies that you would like and sauté until tender, about 3 minutes. Add in frozen hash browns and stir until slightly thawed, about two minutes. Grease a heat proof container that will fit into your Pressure Cooker. I used a round metal bowl. Whisk together eggs, milk, shredded cheese, and salt and pepper in a separate bowl and then add bacon and veggie mixture to the eggs. Pour the egg mixture into your greased, heat proof container. Pour 1 ½ cups of water into your pressure cooker and set trivet inside. Place heat proof bowl with egg mixture on top of trivet. Lock lid and set to high pressure for 20 minutes with a quick release at the end. Loosen edges then dump out onto large plate. Serve with green onions and extra shredded cheese!