Eggs Benedict on a Savory Cheddar and Chive Waffle with Silky Hollandaise Sauce

Makes 8 servings

For the Hollandaise:

1 stick butter, melted

4 egg yolks

1 and 1/2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice

1 pinch salt

1 pinch white pepper

1 pinch cayenne pepper

For the Waffles:

1 and 1/4 cup flour

1/2 teaspoon white granulated sugar

4 egg whites

1/2 cup milk

3 Tablespoons sour cream

1 teaspoon baking powder

3/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

2 Tablespoons melted butter

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 green onions/ chives, sliced

Other: 8 eggs, 1 Tablespoon vinegar, arugula, tomatoes

Step 1: Make the waffle batter by combining the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar and black pepper in a small bowl. Then, in a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until they are fluffy, with medium peaks. Add the milk, butter, sour cream and cheese to the flour mixture and fold in the egg whites (gently so as not to knock out too much air) and chop and add the chives to the batter.

Step 2: Preheat your waffle iron and grease it. While your waffle iron is heating, preheat your oven to 300 F. Boil a pot of water that is big enough for you to fit a small mixing bowl over. Once your waffle iron is heated, make the waffles according to the waffle iron's instructions. Once they're cooked, put them in the oven on a baking sheet to keep them warm and crispy.

Step 3: In a small mixing bowl, combine the egg yolks, lemon juice and spices. Put the bowl over the pot of boiling water, whisking continuously, and drizzle in the melted butter, continuing to whisk vigorously so the eggs don't scramble. Remove from the heat when the sauce has thickened (about doubled in volume). Fill a deep saucepan or wide pot with water and set it to simmer.

Step 4: Once the water in your pan is simmering, add 1 tablespoon of light vinegar (I use rice wine vinegar) swirl and the water in a counter-clockwise circle to create a whirlpool. Crack each egg separately into a little bowl, measuring cup or ramekin and slide in to the water as it spins. Here's a good video for reference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yifZtA3uF-E&feature=emb_title . Let the eggs cook for 3 minutes.

Step 5: Top your waffles with whatever Benedict toppings you want: I chose cherry tomatoes and arugula. Then top with your egg and hollandaise, and if your hollandaise has thickened too much before serving, add a few drops of hot water into the sauce. Garnish with chopped chives. Enjoy!