Ingredients
Method
Poach eggs
- Fill a large, deep skillet with about 3 inches of water and stir in the white vinegar. Warm over medium-high heat until the water is just below a boil and small bubbles are rising and popping across the surface.
- Crack the first egg into a fine-mesh sieve set over a bowl so the thin, watery part of the white drains away, then gently slide the egg into a small bowl. Repeat with the remaining eggs.
- Carefully tip each egg into the hot water one at a time, leaving space between them so the whites do not touch. For best results, poach only 4 eggs at a time.
- Cover the skillet and set a timer for 3 minutes and 30 seconds for large eggs.
- Using a slotted spoon, lift the eggs from the water in the same order they were added. Gently press the white to check for doneness; if you prefer firmer eggs, return them to the water for 15 to 30 seconds. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate and keep the poaching water on low heat for rewarming before serving.
Cook hash browns
- Pour about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil into a 12-inch cast iron skillet or another large heavy skillet. Heat over medium heat to 350°F, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the oil starts to bubble steadily. If it bubbles furiously, reduce the heat and let the oil cool for a few minutes.
- Carefully place 4 frozen hash brown patties in a single layer in the skillet. Fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted fish spatula to transfer them to a paper-towel-lined plate and season with salt. Repeat with the remaining 2 patties, adding more oil if needed.
Assemble
- Rewarm the poached eggs by dipping each one into the reserved hot water for 30 to 60 seconds, then place them back on the paper-towel-lined plate and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Arrange 2 hash brown patties on each plate. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Mash with a fork along with the lime juice, salt, and pepper until creamy but still a little chunky.
- Spoon a generous scoop of the mashed avocado onto each hash brown patty. Place a poached egg on top, finish with salt, pepper, and chopped chives, and serve right away. Pass the optional toppings at the table so everyone can customize their own toast.
Nutrition
Notes
For the crispiest result, use homemade hash brown patties made ahead and frozen; they reheat beautifully in an air fryer.
Store-bought frozen patties are a great time-saver and need no thawing before frying.
Keep the poaching water just below a simmer; a rolling boil will tear the egg whites.
Mash the avocado just before serving to keep it bright green and creamy.
Leftover cooked patties keep in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month; reheat in a skillet or air fryer.
Set out a topping bar with radish slices, pickled jalapeños, crumbled feta or Cotija, toasted seeds, and hot sauce so everyone can build their own perfect toast.
