Monica Galettis
brilliant brunch
These recipes aren’t designed to be served all together as they’re rich and big on flavour, so start with one or two that appeal most and go for it – neither you nor the people around your bank holiday table will be disappointed
In restaurants, bistros and cafés, brunch has fast become one of the most popular meals of the day, with countless places adding it to their menus. Diners love it because the relaxed, easy-going vibe suits the way we like to eat at weekends. And cooks love it because its casual nature alleviates the stress of hosting.
My recipes will help you create a feast in the comfort of your own home – perfect if you’re hosting a celebratory gathering over the big weekend. Prepare a rich ham-and-cheese toastie with dijon mustard; indulge in crayfish and avocado on sourdough; cook up a variation of the all-time favourite, poached eggs and asparagus, with a kick of spicy hollandaise sauce; or delight sweet-toothed guests with batches of coconut waffles made all the more special with vanilla mascarpone and sliced bananas.
I’ve designed the dishes for preparing as much as you can the night before – because the less you have to do when guests arrive, the better. While the recipes are easy to follow, your final spread will be packed with sophistication. I’ve carefully selected ingredients to create flavour combinations so good they’ll leave your guests in awe of your culinary talents.
MONICA GALETTI
PHOTOGRAPHS: SAM FOLAN. FOOD STYLING: KATY MCCLELLAND. STYLING: SARAH BIRKS
Asparagus, poached egg and sriracha hollandaise
“Take a nailed-on brunch classic and change things up, adding a kick of sriracha to your hollandaise sauce”
Asparagus, poached egg and sriracha hollandaise
Serves 4
Hands-on
time 40 min
MAKE AHEAD