Mary Berry Eggs And Broccoli Royale Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a delicious yet easy-to-make meal that combines the richness of eggs with the freshness of broccoli, Mary Berry’s Eggs and Broccoli Royale recipe is an absolute must-try!

This dish is not only packed with flavor, but it’s also a fantastic way to get your veggies in while indulging in something indulgent and comforting. With Mary Berry’s signature simple, no-fuss approach to cooking, you can whip up a dish that feels like a special treat but is perfect for a weekday dinner or a cozy weekend brunch. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more!

Mary Berry Eggs And Broccoli Royale Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create a beautiful and flavorful dish like Eggs and Broccoli Royale, you’ll need a mix of fresh, high-quality ingredients. The delicate balance of flavors is part of the dish’s charm, so let’s break down exactly what you’ll need:

1. Eggs

   The star ingredient of this dish, eggs, should be large, free-range, and fresh. The creaminess of the eggs is a key element that ties the entire dish together, creating a soft, velvety texture.

2. Broccoli

   Fresh broccoli is a must. You’ll want it to be tender yet still vibrant and crisp. Ideally, you’ll use the florets, ensuring they cook perfectly while maintaining some bite and color, adding a pleasant contrast to the richness of the eggs.

3. Butter

   A rich and high-quality unsalted butter is essential for both flavor and texture. It will help create a silky sauce for the eggs and broccoli, giving the dish a luxurious mouthfeel.

4. Cheese (Cheddar)

   A sharp, mature cheddar is used in this dish. Its tangy, slightly nutty flavor melts perfectly with the eggs, enhancing their creaminess. The cheese also adds a bit of texture and richness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

5. Cream

   Heavy cream will be used to enrich the eggs, making them smooth and silky. This is what elevates the dish, adding that comforting, indulgent quality you expect from a Mary Berry recipe.

6. Mustard Powder

   A pinch of mustard powder adds a subtle kick to the dish. It doesn’t overpower the flavors but gives a lovely undercurrent of heat and depth that cuts through the richness of the eggs and cheese.

7. Flour

   A small amount of flour is used to thicken the sauce, ensuring it holds together and coats the eggs and broccoli evenly.

8. Seasoning (Salt and Pepper)

   Basic seasoning of salt and freshly ground black pepper is crucial. You want to season each element so that the flavors develop and balance perfectly.

Equipment Needed

Making Eggs and Broccoli Royale doesn’t require too many complicated tools, but having the right equipment will ensure your cooking process is smooth and the result is as flawless as possible:

1. Saucepan

   You’ll need a small or medium-sized saucepan for preparing the creamy cheese sauce. It’s essential that the pan has a good, even heat distribution so the sauce doesn’t burn.

2. Whisk

   A whisk is a must when combining the cream, mustard powder, and flour, helping to ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce. It’s also used when you’re stirring the eggs to avoid curdling.

3. Large Pot for Boiling Broccoli

   A large pot is needed for blanching or steaming the broccoli. It should be large enough to comfortably fit the florets and allow them to cook evenly.

4. Grater

   A fine grater is helpful for grating the cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and evenly than pre-grated cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.

5. Baking Dish (Optional)

   A shallow baking dish or ovenproof dish can be used if you plan on finishing the dish in the oven, or if you want to serve the dish in a more formal, presentable way.

6. Slotted Spoon

   A slotted spoon is useful for transferring the cooked broccoli from the pot to the plate without any excess water.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Eggs And Broccoli Royale

Now, let’s walk through the process of creating this deliciously indulgent dish:

1. Prepare the Broccoli

   Begin by trimming the broccoli into florets. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the broccoli for about 3-4 minutes until it’s just tender but still has some bite. Once cooked, drain the broccoli and set it aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

   In a saucepan, melt a generous knob of butter over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of flour and whisk it into the butter to form a smooth roux.

   Cook for about a minute to get rid of the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, and let it come to a simmer.

   Once the sauce thickens, stir in the mustard powder and grated cheddar. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted into a smooth, creamy sauce. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Cook the Eggs

   While the sauce is cooking, gently cook your eggs. You can either poach them or soft-boil them, depending on your preference. Poaching will give the eggs a delicate texture with a runny yolk, while soft-boiled eggs offer a firmer yolk but still retain a creamy richness.

4. Assemble the Dish

   Place the cooked broccoli into a serving dish. Spoon the cheese sauce generously over the broccoli, making sure each floret is coated. Carefully place the poached or soft-boiled eggs on top, allowing the yolks to remain intact.

5. Serve and Enjoy!

   Garnish with a touch of freshly ground black pepper and extra cheese if desired. Serve immediately, ensuring the eggs remain runny and the sauce is still warm. The creamy texture of the sauce combined with the tender broccoli and soft eggs creates a beautiful balance of flavors and textures.

Expert Tips

• Egg Cooking Technique: For perfectly poached or soft-boiled eggs, make sure the water is just below a rolling boil. For soft-boiled eggs, cook them for about 4-5 minutes, and for poached eggs, cook them for 3-4 minutes. The key is to keep the water gentle to avoid breaking the egg whites.

• Cheese Choice: While cheddar is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses. Gruyère or a sharp blue cheese can add a different depth of flavor, but be mindful not to overpower the delicate flavors of the eggs and broccoli.

• Broccoli Cooking: Be careful not to overcook the broccoli, as it can become mushy and lose its vibrant color. It should still have a slight crispness to it to provide contrast to the creamy sauce.

• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping, or you can serve it alongside roasted potatoes or a light salad for a fuller meal.

Mary Berry’s Eggs and Broccoli Royale is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with sophistication. The key to its success is using high-quality, fresh ingredients and cooking each element with care.

The creamy cheese sauce, tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked eggs come together in harmony, offering a comforting yet elegant experience. Whether served as a light lunch or a dinner starter, it’s a recipe that’s bound to impress and satisfy. By following the steps and expert tips outlined, you’ll be able to recreate this classic dish with ease, enjoying the vibrant flavors and luxurious textures that make it truly special.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Eggs And Broccoli Royale

Mary Berry’s Eggs and Broccoli Royale is a comforting and delicious dish that blends the earthiness of broccoli with the richness of eggs in a creamy, flavorful sauce. While the original recipe is a classic, there are many ways you can give it a twist to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, or what you have on hand in your kitchen. Here are some easy variations to try out.

1.

Swap the Cheese: The original recipe may call for a specific cheese, but why not experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor profile?

You can use a sharp cheddar for a tangy, rich taste, a creamy Gruyère for a more luxurious feel, or even a tangy goat cheese for a bit of acidity. Adding blue cheese can also give the dish a bold, tangy undertone that complements the creamy eggs and broccoli.

2. Add a Protein Boost: While the dish is lovely as is, adding additional protein can make it heartier and more filling. Try adding some diced cooked chicken, smoked salmon, or crispy bacon. For a vegetarian option, roasted chickpeas or a dollop of hummus could add some texture and flavor without overwhelming the dish.

3. Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, you can infuse the sauce or sprinkle chili flakes on top before serving. Alternatively, you can add some cayenne pepper or ground mustard to the creamy sauce for a little extra kick. For a more Mediterranean-inspired flavor, incorporate some harissa or paprika to deepen the flavor profile.

4. Experiment with Herbs and Greens: The base of the dish can be customized by adding different herbs. Try fresh basil or tarragon for a pop of aromatic freshness, or thyme for an earthy undertone. For those looking to add even more greens to the meal, you can toss in some spinach, kale, or peas to complement the broccoli and add extra color and nutrition.

5. Go Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, swap the cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk. Nutritional yeast can provide that cheesy flavor without any dairy. You can also try a cashew-based cream for a rich, creamy texture that mimics the original recipe’s sauce without using any dairy products.

6. Switch Up the Cooking Method: If you’re pressed for time, you can easily prepare this dish in a skillet instead of baking it in the oven. Simply sauté the broccoli and eggs in a pan with the sauce and cheese, allowing everything to meld together over low heat. If you’re looking for a more elegant presentation, try baking individual portions in small ramekins, which also allows for easier serving.

By making these small changes, you can keep the dish exciting and new every time you prepare it while still honoring the heart of Mary Berry’s original creation.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftovers from Mary Berry’s Eggs and Broccoli Royale can be a real treat the next day, but proper storage is essential to maintain both taste and safety. Follow these best practices to ensure your leftovers stay fresh and flavorful.

1. Cool Down Quickly: After enjoying your meal, allow the dish to cool to room temperature (but no longer than two hours) before refrigerating. This helps avoid the growth of bacteria that can occur if the dish is left out too long. Spread the leftovers out on a shallow dish to allow them to cool more quickly and evenly.

2. Use Airtight Containers: Store your leftovers in an airtight container to preserve both moisture and flavor. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids are an excellent choice, as they don’t absorb odors and help maintain the integrity of the food. If you’re using plastic containers, make sure they are BPA-free.

3. Separate Components: If possible, store the eggs, broccoli, and sauce separately. This can prevent the eggs from becoming overly soggy or the broccoli from losing its texture. You can always combine everything when reheating for a more cohesive meal.

4. Label and Date: To avoid confusion and waste, it’s a good practice to label your containers with the date the leftovers were stored. Leftovers can generally be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, they may start to lose their quality, so it’s best to use them sooner rather than later.

5. Freezing Leftovers: If you have a larger batch of leftovers and want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze the Eggs and Broccoli Royale. To do this, wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. While the dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months, be aware that the texture of the eggs may change slightly once reheated.

6. Reheat with Care: When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the dish gently to prevent overcooking. If it’s in the oven, cover it with foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave by covering it with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. If reheating on the stove, do so over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Following these best practices will help you enjoy your Eggs and Broccoli Royale leftovers while ensuring they stay as fresh and tasty as possible.

What Goes Well With Eggs And Broccoli Royale

Mary Berry’s Eggs and Broccoli Royale is a dish rich in flavor, so pairing it with complementary sides and accompaniments can elevate the meal even further. Whether you’re serving it for a light lunch, dinner, or brunch, here are some ideas for what goes well with it.

1. Fresh Bread or Toast: A crusty, freshly baked baguette or soft, toasted brioche is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce. The richness of the bread balances the velvety texture of the eggs and sauce, and it adds a satisfying crunch to the dish. You could also serve it with warm sourdough or whole-grain bread for a more hearty option.

2. Light Green Salad: A simple salad with crisp greens, such as arugula, spinach, or watercress, is a perfect contrast to the richness of the Eggs and Broccoli Royale. Top with a light vinaigrette dressing to add a refreshing tartness and help cut through the creaminess of the main dish.

3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes make for a satisfying side, providing both texture and flavor that complements the soft eggs and tender broccoli. You can season them with garlic, rosemary, or thyme for added depth, or even sprinkle them with Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor.

4. Grilled Tomatoes: Grilled or roasted tomatoes provide a juicy, tangy element to the meal, offering a contrast to the creamy richness of the eggs and sauce. Their slight acidity and natural sweetness balance the savory components of the dish, creating a more rounded flavor profile.

5. Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms are a great addition, adding an earthy, umami flavor that pairs well with the eggs and broccoli. You could use button mushrooms, shiitake, or even wild mushrooms for a more complex taste. A drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of thyme can bring out the mushrooms’ natural flavors.

6. Fresh Fruit: For a lighter, more refreshing contrast, serving a bowl of fresh fruit is a great choice. A mix of citrus fruits like orange and grapefruit or a combination of berries (strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries) can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of the main dish.

7. Crisp White Wine or Light Ale: If you’re looking to pair a beverage, opt for a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which will complement the creamy elements of the dish while providing a refreshing balance. For beer lovers, a light ale or pilsner is a nice option that won’t overwhelm the flavors of the meal.

These sides and drinks can take your Eggs and Broccoli Royale from a simple dish to an unforgettable meal, making it more satisfying and enjoyable.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Eggs and Broccoli Royale is a classic dish that exudes comfort and simplicity, but it’s also versatile enough to allow for endless adaptations. Whether you experiment with different cheeses, add protein, or try dairy-free variations, the dish can be molded to suit various tastes and dietary needs. The key to making it shine is in the balance of flavors and textures, from the richness of the eggs and cheese to the freshness of the broccoli and any additional ingredients you choose to include.

When storing leftovers, following proper guidelines will help maintain the integrity of the dish so that you can enjoy it later without sacrificing quality. And when it comes to pairing, the right sides-whether a light salad, hearty potatoes, or a refreshing fruit bowl-can elevate the meal and offer a delightful contrast to its rich, creamy components.

With a few simple tweaks and some thoughtful pairings, Eggs and Broccoli Royale can easily become a go-to recipe for any occasion, and it will continue to impress friends and family alike.

FAQs

What Is Mary Berry’s Eggs And Broccoli Royale Recipe?

Mary Berry’s Eggs and Broccoli Royale is a classic British dish that features a creamy broccoli and cheese sauce, with poached eggs and a hint of mustard for added flavor. It’s often served as a brunch or light meal, and is a sophisticated twist on traditional egg dishes.

How Do You Make The Broccoli Sauce For Mary Berry’s Eggs And Broccoli Royale?

To make the broccoli sauce, start by cooking the broccoli until tender. Then, sauté onions in butter, add flour to create a roux, and gradually whisk in milk to form a smooth, creamy sauce.

Once the sauce thickens, stir in cheese (like cheddar) and mustard to bring extra flavor. Finally, combine the cooked broccoli with the sauce.

Can I Substitute The Broccoli In Mary Berry’s Eggs And Broccoli Royale?

Yes, if you’re looking for a variation, you can substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, or kale. However, keep in mind that the taste and texture will change slightly depending on the vegetable you choose.

How Do I Poach Eggs For Mary Berry’s Eggs And Broccoli Royale?

To poach eggs for this recipe, fill a pan with simmering water (not boiling), add a splash of vinegar to help the egg whites set, and gently crack the eggs into the water. Poach them for about 3-4 minutes until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

What Cheese Can I Use In Place Of Cheddar For The Broccoli Sauce?

While Mary Berry’s original recipe uses cheddar cheese, you can substitute it with other cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or a mild blue cheese. Each cheese will impart a unique flavor to the sauce, but cheddar is recommended for its smooth melt and flavor balance.

Can I Prepare Mary Berry’s Eggs And Broccoli Royale Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare most components ahead of time. You can cook the broccoli and make the cheese sauce in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to poach the eggs just before serving to ensure they remain fresh and runny.

What Can I Serve With Mary Berry’s Eggs And Broccoli Royale?

This dish can be served as a stand-alone meal or with a side of toasted sourdough bread, roasted tomatoes, or a simple green salad. If you’re serving it for brunch, it pairs well with fresh fruit or a light pastry on the side.

How Do I Make The Sauce Thicker Or Thinner?

To adjust the thickness of the sauce, you can either add more milk to make it thinner or cook it longer to reduce and thicken the consistency. If it’s too thick, you can always thin it with a bit of milk or vegetable broth to achieve your desired texture.

Is There A Vegetarian Version Of Mary Berry’s Eggs And Broccoli Royale?

Yes, the recipe is already vegetarian, provided you ensure that the cheese you use is suitable for vegetarians. If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can replace the butter and cheese with plant-based alternatives such as dairy-free butter and vegan cheese.

Can I Use Frozen Broccoli In Mary Berry’s Eggs And Broccoli Royale?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe, and it’s a convenient option. Be sure to thaw and drain the broccoli properly before using it to avoid excess water in the sauce. Fresh broccoli, however, may give a slightly better texture and flavor.