Uitsmijter (Fried egg with cheese and ham)
Uitsmijter Recipe: Fried Egg with Cheese and Ham from the Netherlands
Introduction
Uitsmijter is a traditional Dutch dish that translates to "bouncer" in English. It is a simple yet delicious meal consisting of fried eggs served on top of ham and cheese on slices of bread. This hearty dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick and satisfying dinner.
History
The Uitsmijter is a popular dish in the Netherlands, where it is often served in cafes and restaurants as a quick and filling meal. It is believed to have originated as a simple and affordable dish that could be made with basic ingredients found in most Dutch households.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Heat the butter until it turns light brown.
- Crack the eggs into the frying pan and gently slide them in.
- Allow the whites to solidify.
- Spread butter on two or three slices of white bread. Place the ham slices on the bread, followed by the cheese slices. Carefully place the fried egg on top of the cheese, making sure not to break the runny yolk.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Variations
- Add sliced tomatoes or avocado for extra freshness.
- Use different types of cheese, such as Gouda or cheddar, for a unique flavor.
- Substitute the ham with bacon or smoked salmon for a different twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to heat the butter until it turns light brown before adding the eggs to the pan. This will give the eggs a delicious nutty flavor.
- Be careful when cracking the eggs into the pan to avoid breaking the yolks.
- Use a non-stick frying pan to prevent the eggs from sticking.
- Season the eggs with salt and pepper to taste for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Uitsmijter is best served hot with a side of fresh salad or pickles. It can also be enjoyed with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
Cooking Techniques
Use a medium heat when frying the eggs to prevent them from burning.
- Make sure to cook the eggs until the whites are fully set but the yolks are still runny for the perfect Uitsmijter.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use margarine or oil instead of butter for frying the eggs.
- Use whole wheat or rye bread for a healthier option.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the ham and cheese slices in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the Uitsmijter.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Uitsmijter on a plate with a garnish of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Uitsmijter pairs well with a glass of orange juice or a cold beer for a refreshing drink.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Uitsmijter is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Uitsmijter contains approximately 350 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Uitsmijter contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Uitsmijter contains approximately 25 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Uitsmijter contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Uitsmijter is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin D, calcium, and iron.
Alergens
Uitsmijter contains eggs, dairy, and gluten from the bread, so it may not be suitable for individuals with allergies to these ingredients.
Summary
Uitsmijter is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Uitsmijter is a classic Dutch dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a perfect combination of fried eggs, ham, and cheese on slices of bread, this dish is sure to satisfy your hunger and taste buds. Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or any time of the day for a delicious and hearty meal.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Uitsmijter - a simple yet delicious dish of fried egg with cheese and ham. It was many years ago, during my travels in Europe, that I stumbled upon this culinary gem.
I had always been passionate about cooking, and I loved exploring new recipes and techniques from different cultures. On this particular trip, I found myself in a cozy little cafe in Amsterdam, enjoying a leisurely breakfast of coffee and pastries. As I perused the menu, my eyes fell upon the word "Uitsmijter" and my curiosity was piqued.
I decided to order the dish, intrigued by its unique name and combination of ingredients. When it arrived at my table, I was immediately struck by its simple yet elegant presentation. A perfectly fried egg sat atop a bed of crispy ham and gooey melted cheese, all nestled on a slice of crusty bread. It looked absolutely mouthwatering.
I took my first bite and was blown away by the explosion of flavors in my mouth. The richness of the egg yolk, the saltiness of the ham, and the creaminess of the cheese all came together in perfect harmony. It was a culinary revelation, and I knew that I had to learn how to recreate this dish at home.
After finishing my meal, I sought out the chef and asked for the recipe. He was more than happy to share his secrets with me, and we spent the afternoon in the kitchen, cooking and chatting about our shared love of food.
I learned that the key to a perfect Uitsmijter lies in the quality of the ingredients. The freshest eggs, the finest cheese, and the most flavorful ham all come together to create a dish that is greater than the sum of its parts.
The chef showed me how to fry the egg to perfection, ensuring that the yolk was runny and the whites were just set. He taught me how to layer the ham and cheese on top of the egg, allowing the heat to melt the cheese and infuse the ham with flavor.
As we cooked, he regaled me with stories of his own culinary adventures and the many recipes he had collected over the years. I was inspired by his passion and creativity, and I knew that I had found a kindred spirit in the world of food.
After a few hours of cooking and sharing, the Uitsmijter was finally ready. I took my first bite and was transported back to that cozy cafe in Amsterdam. The flavors were just as I remembered - rich, savory, and utterly delicious.
I thanked the chef profusely for sharing his recipe with me and promised to carry on the tradition of making Uitsmijter in my own kitchen. As I left the cafe that day, I felt a renewed sense of excitement and inspiration for my culinary adventures.
Since that fateful day in Amsterdam, I have made Uitsmijter many times for friends and family, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. Whether it's a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of hot sauce, I always find ways to make this dish my own.
And every time I take that first bite of a perfectly cooked Uitsmijter, I am reminded of that magical moment in the kitchen with the chef in Amsterdam. It is a dish that will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring to our lives.
Categories
| Cheese Recipes | Dutch Lunch Dishes | Dutch Recipes | Ham Recipes |