Anglesey Eggs is a delectable dish originating from the picturesque island of Anglesey, nestled in the embrace of the Irish Sea and separated from North Wales by the majestic Menai Strait. It’s a culinary tradition that has delighted both Welsh and English vacationers for generations, offering a simple yet irresistible way to utilize leftover potatoes and bits of cheese. Whether enjoyed for a cozy tea or a hearty supper, Anglesey Eggs brings warmth and satisfaction to any table 🏴.
Ingredients
Let’s gather our ingredients to embark on this flavorful journey:
| Ingredients | Quantities |
|---|---|
| Leeks | 6 |
| Mashed potatoes | 1 portion |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Butter | 3 tbsp |
| Plain flour | 1 tbsp |
| Milk | 10 oz |
| Nutmeg | To taste |
| Cheese | 3 oz |
| Eggs | 8 |
Instructions
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this savory delight:
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Prepare the Leeks: Begin by boiling the leeks for 5-10 minutes until they are tender. Once done, strain them and combine them with the mashed potatoes.
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Season and Fluff: Season the leek and potato mixture generously with salt and black pepper. Then, beat in half of the butter until the mixture achieves a fluffy consistency.
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Arrange in Dish: Take a greased ovenproof dish and arrange the seasoned mixture evenly on it, creating a comforting base for our dish.
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Craft the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt 1 ounce of butter over medium heat. Gradually stir in the plain flour and cook for about 2 minutes, ensuring constant stirring to prevent lumps.
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Incorporate Milk: Gradually pour in the hot milk, stirring vigorously to combine with the flour mixture. Continue stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and thick.
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Infuse Flavor: Once the sauce reaches a desired consistency, return it to heat and bring it to a gentle boil. As it simmers, add a touch of nutmeg for a delightful flavor boost.
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Add Cheese: Incorporate most of the grated cheese into the sauce, reserving a portion for later. Stir well to melt the cheese into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture. Don’t forget to season the sauce to taste.
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Prepare Eggs: Slice the hard-boiled eggs in half lengthwise, creating beautiful halves to adorn our dish.
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Layer and Bake: Arrange the halved eggs on top of the leek and potato mixture in the ovenproof dish. Then, generously cover everything with the prepared cheese sauce, ensuring every corner is coated in deliciousness. Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese on top and dot with the remaining butter for an extra indulgent touch.
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Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) or Gas Mark 6, and then bake the Anglesey Eggs until they turn beautifully golden brown, creating a tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen with anticipation.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the Anglesey Eggs from the oven and serve them hot, allowing everyone to indulge in the delightful combination of creamy potatoes, savory leeks, gooey cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked eggs.
Nutritional Information
Before you savor this culinary masterpiece, let’s take a look at its nutritional profile:
- Calories: 601.3
- Fat Content: 36.3g
- Saturated Fat: 19.4g
- Cholesterol: 495.3mg
- Sodium: 874.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 46.3g
- Fiber: 4.2g
- Sugar: 7.7g
- Protein: 23.8g
Serving Suggestions
Anglesey Eggs can be served as a standalone dish, accompanied by a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious cheese sauce. It’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a hearty snack, satisfying both adults and kids alike with its comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients.
So, why not bring a taste of Anglesey into your kitchen and treat yourself to this delightful Welsh-European fusion dish? With its simplicity, affordability, and unbeatable flavor, Anglesey Eggs is sure to become a beloved favorite in your household 🍳🧀.
