Crostini with Poached Egg

Poached egg crostini are a delicious and refined dish, perfect for a brunch or as an appetizer. Here’s how to prepare them:

Ingredients

• Slices of bread, preferably rustic or baguette
• Fresh eggs (one for each crostini)
• White wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Chives or other fresh herbs for garnish

Preparation

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil with a pinch of salt and a tablespoon of white wine vinegar.
2. Meanwhile, toast the bread slices. You can choose to do this in an oven, in a skillet, or in a toaster, until they are golden and crispy.
3. When the water boils, lower the heat so the water is just below boiling. Crack an egg into a cup, being careful not to break the yolk.
4. Create a whirlpool in the water with the help of a spoon and gently pour the egg into the center. The whirlpool will help the white wrap around the yolk.
5. Let the egg cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the white is completely set but the yolk is still soft.
6. Use a slotted spoon to retrieve the egg from the water and let it drain on a clean cloth.
7. Place each poached egg on a slice of toasted bread.
8. Season with salt, pepper, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and garnish with chopped chives.
9. Serve immediately.

If you want an Italian touch, you can add a thin layer of truffle cream, thinly sliced prosciutto, or flakes of Parmesan cheese to the crostino, which will perfectly complement the softness of the egg.

Curiosity

The origin of the dish is French, but it is also very popular in the English breakfast. The poached egg, also known as an egg in a shirt, is considered a basic preparation in international cuisine and is loved for its creamy and delicate texture.