Sun over hills

Brinner—where the two most loved meals of the day, breakfast and dinner, meet for one satisfying culinary affair.

Brinner—where the two most loved meals of the day, breakfast and dinner, meet for one satisfying culinary affair. 2 A.M. at The Hotcake House needn’t be the only time you recognize this fine meal; you can certainly enjoy it at regular dinnertime, too (whether or not you want to include the drunk part is your choice).

This brinner dish is basic, hearty and satisfying. It’s titled “sun over hills” because the orange of the egg layers on top of the green chard and golden polenta, reminiscent of the time of day when the sun dips into the hills.

Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cup cornmeal
  • 2 teaspoons of salt
  • 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup of Gruyere cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup of Gruyere cheese, cut into cubes
  • 2 teaspoons of salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
  • 1 bundle of Swiss chard, cut into
  •  ribbons, stems discarded 
  • 1 tablespoon sherry (or any other) Vinegar
  • 2 eggs
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper

Preparation

Bring six cups of water to a boil in a large medium saucepan. When the water is bubbling, add the salt, then slowly whisk in the cornmeal and lower heat to a simmer. Whisk every few minutes (careful, polenta may bubble), and when creamy, remove from heat.

Stir in butter and cheese and cover.

Bring a medium skillet to medium low heat. Add one tablespoon of oil. After 30 seconds, add the sliced garlic cloves and red pepper flakes. Place greens in the pan and toss with tongs so the oil coats them. Cook until tender, 8–10 minutes. Remove from heat and season with salt, pepper and vinegar. Cover with a lid.

In another medium skillet, heat the other tablespoon of oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, crack both eggs directly in the skillet and cook until the yolks are hard, 3–5 minutes.

For each serving, scoop about one cup of polenta in a bowl, top with half the greens and slide the fried egg on top. Season with salt and pepper. Serves two. ?