Shirred Eggs
In ramekin place
a butter base
so thin to feel
like silk.
And then esteem
a leafy green,
like spinach,
just to wilt.
The oven’s heat
let it meet
and make a sort
of bowl.
And sprinkle thus
some fennel dust,
and salt to heal
the soul.
Within this cup
an egg, sun up,
then tilt to place
just round
Some grated cheese
to hold with ease,
its creamy
yellow mound.
It needs a spice.
Cayenne, so nice!
Just dust it
barely there.
Yes, just a trace
a lovely taste,
but not too much
to bear.
Three and fifty
heat so nifty
sets our egg
apace
Until it wiggles
just a little;
twelve or more
in space.
The white is set
the yolk still wet,
like pudding
so sublime.
A toast of kings,
its buttered rings
await to soak
in kind.
But first a jam
of roses slam
to sweeten
oh, so thin!
And then on top
just scoop and plop
the egg and cheese
and green.
Oh, serve it swift!
It is a gift
to share with king
and queen.