Œufs Cocotte Campagnards: A Rustic Delight

  Œufs Cocotte Campagnards is a traditional French dish that encapsulates the simplicity and elegance of rural cuisine. This rustic baked eggs recipe combines the savory flavors of smoky lardons, sweet onions, earthy mushrooms, and creamy Gruyère cheese, all nestled in a rich, velvety egg custard. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, Œufs Cocotte Campagnards is both comforting and sophisticated, making it a beloved dish in French households.

Ingredients

• 4 eggs
• 100 g smoked lardons
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 100 g Paris mushrooms, sliced
• 100 g grated Gruyère cheese
• 4 tablespoons thick crème fraîche
• 4 sprigs fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Butter for greasing the ramekins

Directions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly butter 4 individual ramekins.
2. Cook the Lardons: In a skillet, cook the lardons until they are golden and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onion until golden and translucent.
4. Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the onions and cook until they are golden and tender. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Assemble the Ramekins: Divide the lardons, onions, and mushrooms evenly among the buttered ramekins.
6. Add the Eggs: Carefully crack an egg into each ramekin, ensuring the yolk remains intact.
7. Top with Crème Fraîche: Spoon a tablespoon of crème fraîche over each egg.
8. Cheese it Up: Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese on top.

9. Bake: Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny.
10. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately with toasted bread or soldiers.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 portions

Nutritional Information

• Calories per serving: Approximately 250 kcal

Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms, high-quality lardons, and a good Gruyère cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
2. Monitor the Eggs: Keep a close eye on the eggs while baking to ensure the whites are set, but the yolks remain runny for the perfect texture.
3. Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add other ingredients like spinach, tomatoes, or even a touch of truffle oil for a luxurious twist.

Benefits

• Nutrient-Rich: Eggs provide high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals. Mushrooms offer antioxidants, and the lardons provide protein and flavor.
• Versatile: This dish can be enjoyed at any time of day, making it a flexible option for meal planning.
• Comforting and Elegant: Combines comfort food qualities with the elegance of French cuisine, suitable for casual and formal occasions.

FAQs

Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components (like cooking the lardons, onions, and mushrooms) ahead of time and assemble and bake the ramekins when ready to serve.

Q: What can I use instead of Gruyère cheese?
A: You can substitute with Emmental, Comté, or even a sharp cheddar if you prefer.

Q: Are there any vegetarian alternatives?
A: Yes, you can omit the lardons and add more vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini.

Conclusion

Œufs Cocotte Campagnards is a delightful dish that brings the warmth and richness of French country cooking to your table. Easy to prepare yet impressively flavorful, it is a versatile recipe that can be tailored to suit any meal or occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this dish promises to deliver a satisfying and delicious experience every time. Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of this classic French recipe with your loved ones and create cherished culinary memories.