Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spring Vegetable Potato Hash with Poached Eggs?
It is a vibrant dish featuring tender new potatoes, fresh asparagus, earthy shiitake mushrooms, and sweet roasted red peppers, served with poached eggs and fresh chives.
What type of potatoes are recommended for this hash?
The recipe calls for one pound of new potatoes, scrubbed and halved.
How should the potatoes be initially prepared?
Potatoes should be steamed in a basket over boiling water for 12 to 15 minutes until barely tender, then cooled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces.
Can I substitute the shiitake mushrooms?
Yes, while shiitake mushroom caps are suggested, you can use any mushrooms you have on hand.
What kind of oil is used for cooking the hash?
The recipe uses 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, which is added to the skillet in stages.
How is the asparagus prepared?
One bunch of asparagus should be trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces before cooking.
What aromatics are included in the recipe?
The dish includes minced shallot, minced garlic, and one small coarsely chopped onion.
How long do you sauté the asparagus and mushrooms?
They should be cooked with shallot and garlic for about 5 to 7 minutes until tender and starting to brown.
What is the secret to getting golden brown potatoes in this recipe?
Cook the prepped potatoes and onion in olive oil for 4 to 8 minutes, occasionally scraping up the browned bits from the skillet with a metal spatula.
When do you add the roasted red peppers?
The chopped roasted red peppers are stirred in at the end along with the asparagus mixture, sage, salt, and pepper.
What fresh herb is cooked inside the hash?
One tablespoon of minced fresh sage is added to the skillet during the final heating phase.
Are the poached eggs mandatory?
No, the poached eggs are an optional addition used to top the hash for extra richness.
What is the recommended garnish?
The finished dish should be finished with a generous sprinkle of 2 tablespoons of fresh chives.
Can this recipe be prepared in advance?
Yes, the potatoes can be steamed ahead of time to make the final meal preparation quicker and easier.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe is designed to be divided among 4 plates.
What kind of skillet is best for this hash?
A large non-nonstick skillet is recommended to allow for the development and scraping of flavorful browned bits.
How much salt and pepper is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of fresh ground pepper.
Is this dish suitable for brunch?
Yes, it is described as a perfect choice for brunch or a wholesome dinner.
How much water do I need for steaming the potatoes?
Fill a large saucepan with approximately 1 inch of water.
What is the preparation for the jarred roasted red pepper?
You should use 1/2 cup of jarred roasted red pepper, rinsed and chopped.
How do I know when the steamed potatoes are ready for chopping?
They are ready when they are just barely tender when pierced with a skewer.
What flavors does the description highlight?
The description highlights light, fresh, and earthy flavors that capture the essence of spring.
Is this a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a one-dish meal that combines vegetables, potatoes, and protein from eggs.
What should I do with the asparagus mixture while cooking the potatoes?
Transfer the sautéed asparagus and mushroom mixture onto a plate and set it aside while you brown the potatoes.
How large should the potato pieces be after steaming?
The steamed potatoes should be chopped into 1/2-inch pieces.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe requires one minced garlic clove.
What is the primary vegetable ingredient by weight?
New potatoes are the primary ingredient, weighing one pound.
How long is the final step where all ingredients are combined?
Once combined, cook everything together until heated through, which takes about one minute.
Does the recipe specify a type of salt?
It simply lists 1/2 teaspoon of salt without specifying a particular variety.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
The dish features tender steamed potatoes that are then browned for a golden exterior, combined with tender-crisp vegetables.