Spring Ragout with Asparagus and Poached Eggs

spring ragout with asparagus and poached eggs
Photo: The Ingalls
Prep Time:
50 mins
Total Time:
1 hrs
Servings:
8

A colorful and nutritious way to brunch: tomatillos, spinach, cilantro, and asparagus give this dish it's verdant hue. Chickpeas and poached eggs provide plenty of protein.

Ingredients

  • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

  • 1 yellow onion, finely chopped (1 ½ cups)

  • 3 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed

  • 1 jalapeno (seeded if less heat desired), thinly sliced (¼ cup)

  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

  • 1 ¼ pounds tomatillos, husked, well washed, and cut into 1-inch wedges (4 cups)

  • 4 cups packed spinach

  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro stems, plus leaves for serving

  • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds

  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

  • 12 scallions, white and lightgreen parts only, cut on the bias into 1-inch pieces (1 cup)

  • 2 cans (each 15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

  • 2 bunches thin asparagus, trimmed and cut on the bias into 2-inch pieces (4 ½ cups)

  • 8 poached eggs (for how-to, go to marthastewart.com/poachedeggs)

Directions

  1. In a large skillet, preferably enameled cast iron, heat 1/4 cup oil over medium. Add onion, garlic, jalapeno, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is translucent, 6 to 7 minutes. Add tomatillos and cook, stirring occasionally, until just beginning to soften, 5 to 6 minutes.

  2. Transfer mixture to a blender; let cool slightly. Add 2 cups spinach, cilantro stems, and 1/2 cup water; season with salt and pepper. Blend until pureed, adding up to 1/2 cup more water if needed. Season with salt and pepper.

  3. Wipe skillet clean; return to medium heat. Swirl in remaining 1/4 cup oil, add spices, and cook, stirring often, until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. Add scallions, season with salt, and cook until softened, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in chickpeas, tomatillo mixture, asparagus, and remaining 2 cups spinach. Nestle in poached eggs; cover and cook until eggs are heated through and asparagus is bright-green and crisp-tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Drizzle with oil and top with cilantro leaves; serve.

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