Poach

You can add herbs, lemon slices or peppercorns to the poaching liquid. For a lunchbox version, add cooked rice vermicelli to the salad and use as a filling for rice-paper rolls. Note

Sometimes you need real, proper energy food for breakfast or brunch, the kind of meal that can last a hike or help you recover from last night. Poached eggs and mushrooms on toast is it.

Current evidence tells us that eggs are one of nature's super foods. Because they are protein packed and contain omega-3, plus 10 vitamins and minerals, we can enjoy up to 6 a week. So go on, eat your eggs!

Poaching chicken in this way guarantees a tender and moist result. Served on ciabatta, this lemon garlic chicken is a perfect protein filled lunch with a tangy finish, and just the right amount of heat from the chilli.

Tasty, fresh and incredibly healthy, this is the kind of chicken and corn soup that leaves you feeling energised, refreshed and ready for anything.

Poaching chicken in this way keeps the meat lovely and moist. Make sure you cover with a tightly fitting lid to prevent too much liquid from evaporating, and simmer, rather than boil. Boiling will make the chicken tough.

Try these poached eggs with truffle polenta and salsa verde for your next brunch gathering. Just the smallest amount of truffle oil adds an incredible layer of taste and sophistication to this dish.

You could use apricots as well or instead of either fruit for this divine peach and nectarine trifle. As a rule of thumb, just go with whatever is best in season.

More sophisticated than pancakes, these buckwheat blinis topped with poached eggs and smoked salmon make a gorgeous dish for brunch with friends.

Packed with omega-3, protein and fibre this smoked salmon and poached egg on rye is a delicious and healthy breakfast or brunch. Adding a tablespoon of vinegar to the poaching water will help keep the eggs together.