Brunch enthusiasts around the world can agree on one thing: Eggs Benedict is a dish that never goes out of style. This iconic brunch classic, with its perfectly poached eggs, savory Canadian bacon, and silky Hollandaise sauce, has been gracing breakfast tables for over a century. That’s why this month at Stow Cafe, we’re showing some appreciation for our favorite brunch food with some theories of origin, along with some fun facts!
The Birth of Eggs Benedict
The precise origin of Eggs Benedict remains a subject of debate, but the consensus is that it emerged in the late 19th century in the United States. Two popular origin stories claim the invention of this delectable dish:
One account traces Eggs Benedict back to the Waldorf Hotel in New York City in 1894. According to this story, a Wall Street banker named Lemuel Benedict ordered a unique breakfast at the hotel, consisting of buttered toast, poached eggs, crisp bacon, and a side of Hollandaise sauce. The combination was so well-received that it was eventually added to the hotel’s menu.
Another theory suggests that Eggs Benedict was created at Delmonico’s, a renowned restaurant in New York City. In this version, the dish was named after Mrs. LeGrand Benedict, a regular patron, and it featured a variation of the classic ingredients we know today.
Delicious Variations
While the classic Eggs Benedict recipe is a brunch staple, there are numerous mouthwatering variations to explore:
Avocado Eggs Benedict: Swap out the Canadian bacon for slices of ripe avocado for a creamy, vegetarian twist on the classic.
Eggs Chesapeake: Replace the Canadian bacon with crab cakes for a coastal twist on Eggs Benedict. Top it with hollandaise sauce and a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning.
Eggs Hemingway: Also known as “Eggs Royale,” this version swaps out the Canadian bacon for smoked salmon, offering a luxurious and slightly briny flavor profile.
Eggs Ranchero: Incorporate some Tex-Mex flair by substituting the English muffin for a crispy corn tortilla, and top it with poached eggs, salsa, avocado slices, and a drizzle of cheese sauce.
Fun Facts
- Eggs Benedict’s popularity extends beyond breakfast. It has inspired dishes like Eggs Benedict pizza, Eggs Benedict burgers, and even Eggs Benedict casserole.
- Some restaurants and culinary schools host Eggs Benedict competitions, challenging chefs to come up with the most innovative and delicious variations.
- Many celebrities have professed their love for Eggs Benedict, including Julia Child, who featured her own recipe for the dish in her cookbook “Julia Child & More Company.”
Get the Best Food at Stow Cafe!
Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast or lunch, we have various delicious food options to satisfy your tastebuds! For more information on what we offer at Stow Cafe, we encourage you to check out our online menu or order online today. In the meantime, we look forward to dining with you!
