Eggs With Soldiers Recipe

Toast bread

Place the 2 slices of bread in a toaster or under a medium-high broiler. Toast until golden and crisp at the edges but still slightly soft in the center (about 2–4 minutes depending on appliance).

Butter and cut into soldiers

Immediately spread 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over the hot toast so it melts in. Using a sharp knife, cut each slice into 3–4 long strips (soldiers) about 1–1.5 cm wide so you have thin sticks ideal for dipping. Place jam in a small ramekin or serve alongside if desired.

Soft-boiled eggs (classic)

Bring 1 L of water and 1 tsp salt to a gentle rolling boil in a small saucepan. Reduce to a simmer and carefully lower the 2 eggs (room temperature if possible) into the water using a spoon. Start timing: simmer for 5–6 minutes for runny yolks with slightly set whites (5 min = very runny, 6 min = slightly more custardy). Meanwhile prepare toast. When time is up, transfer eggs to a bowl of cold water for 30–60 seconds to stop cooking, then tap and carefully crack and peel the top third of the shell or use an egg topper.

Poached eggs (alternative)

Fill a shallow pan with about 5 cm of water (≈1 L), add 1 tsp white vinegar and bring to a gentle simmer (not a rolling boil). Create a gentle vortex with a spoon, then crack each egg into a small cup and slip it gently into the water. Poach for 3–4 minutes for a runny yolk. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain briefly on a paper towel.

Fried eggs (alternative)

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat and add 1/2 tbs butter. Crack both eggs into the pan, cook until whites are set but yolks are still runny, about 2–3 minutes. For sunnyside, cover with a lid for 30–45 seconds; for basted, spoon hot butter over yolks once whites set.

Place the prepared soldiers on a plate. Put the cooked eggs in egg cups (for boiled) or on the plate (poached or fried). Season the eggs with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of finishing salt if desired. Serve the buttered toast soldiers alongside with jam on the side for spreading or dipping. Use the soldiers to dip into the runny yolk and enjoy immediately while hot.