Honeyed Berry Gastrique over Poached Eggs on Brioche

This fresh and inviting brunch dish would be perfect for a small Easter gathering. The runny yolks mingle with the honey-sweetened berry sauce, a perfect combination of richness and acidity that makes this dish sing.

Ingredients

Gastrique:

1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries (3 ounces)

1/4 cup fresh or frozen blackberries (2 ounces)

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

1/4 cup Golden BlossomĀ® Honey

salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Brioche

1 tablespoon white vinegar

4 large eggs, as fresh as possible

4 3/4-inch thick slices brioche or challah bread

1 tablespoon butter, softened

1 tablespoon Golden BlossomĀ® Honey

baby arugula, for topping

Honey Tips

Honey Flavors and Colors

Honey has different flavors and colors, depending on the location and kinds of flowers the bees visit. Climatic conditions of the area also influence its flavor and color.

Directions

To prepare gastrique, combine berries, vinegar, and honey in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture comes to a boil. Reduce heat slightly and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes or until thickened and syrupy. Remove from heat and strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds. Discard seeds.
Fill a non-stick saucepan with 2 to 3 inches of water and a splash of vinegar. Heat until a thin layer of small bubbles forms on the bottom of the pan. Crack one egg into a small ramekin. With a spoon, swirl the water to form a small whirlpool. Stop stirring and gently pour the egg into the center of the whirlpool. Let cook for 4 to 5 minutes or until white is cooked but yolk is still jiggly. Remove with a slotted spoon. Repeat with remaining eggs.
Cut out 3-inch rounds from toast slices (optional, but makes for a more unique presentation) and arrange on a baking sheet. In a small dish, mash softened butter together with honey until smooth. Spread onto toast rounds. Broil for 2 minutes or until golden brown, watching carefully so the toast does not burn.
If necessary, re-heat eggs just prior to serving by dropping into simmering water for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place one egg on top of each toast. Drizzle with gastrique and top with a small handful of arugula. Serve immediately.
Yield: 4 servings
Total Time: 30 minutes