Asparagus Morel Sandwiches with Poached Egg

By pattie_d

To make these rustic open-faced sandwiches, morel mushrooms and asparagus are simmered with cream, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. The aromatic mixture is then spooned over slices of rustic bread spread with ricotta and topped with a poached egg. They make an unexpected brunch dish or a light dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 cup best-quality whole-milk ricotta cheese
• Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 10 ounces asparagus, trimmed
• 4 ounces small morel mushrooms (halved or quartered if large)
• 1/2 cup homemade or low-sodium store-bought chicken stock
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 4 teaspoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 4 teaspoons finely chopped fresh chervil
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• 4 very fresh large eggs
• 4 slices (1/2 inch thick) rustic bread, lightly toasted

Preparation

Step 1

Directions

Stir together ricotta, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and pinch of pepper in a bowl; set aside.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and oil; heat until butter has melted. Add asparagus, and cook, stirring, 1 minute. Stir in mushrooms. Add stock, and bring to a simmer. Cover, and cook 2 minutes. Uncover, and cook until asparagus is tender and bright green, about 2 minutes more. Add cream; cook until reduced and slightly thickened, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in herbs and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper; remove from heat.

Bring a large shallow saucepan of water to a simmer. Working with 1 egg at time, break into a cup, and slide egg into water. Cook the eggs until whites are set, 2 to 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer eggs to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.

Spread ricotta mixture over bread slices, dividing evenly. Divide asparagus among slices, and drizzle with sauce. Top each with a poached egg. Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.