Eggs in purgatory

Eggs in Purgatory – A Delicious and Easy Recipe

At the heart of gastronomy, recipes that combine simple ingredients to create rich flavors are always appreciated. Eggs in purgatory is one of those recipes, evoking a perfect blend of vegetables and eggs, all cooked in a tasty sauce. This recipe is not just a quick meal but also an excellent way to add color and flavor to your table. Let’s begin the culinary journey!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2 servings

Ingredients

- 1 medium onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 50 ml water
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 300 g canned whole tomatoes in their juice (or fresh tomatoes, if preferred)
- A pinch of ground black pepper
- A pinch of sweet paprika
- 1 fresh basil leaf (or dried if you don't have any)
- 2 large eggs
- 50 g grated cheese (for serving)

Recipe History

Eggs in purgatory is a traditional recipe, appreciated in various forms around the world. It reflects the simplicity and beauty of home cooking, being an excellent way to use seasonal ingredients. In many cultures, eggs are considered a symbol of prosperity, and this recipe transforms them into a savory and comforting dish.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the vegetables
Start by peeling the onion, then wash it well. Chop the onion into small cubes, ensuring they are of uniform size for even cooking. The red bell pepper, with its sweet and fragrant aroma, should be cleaned of its stem and seeds, then washed and finely chopped.

2. Sautéing the vegetables
In a deep skillet, add the 3 tablespoons of olive oil, the chopped onion, and the bell pepper. Add 50 ml of water and ½ teaspoon of salt. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the vegetables sauté over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and become translucent. This step is essential for developing the flavors of the vegetables.

3. Preparing the sauce
Meanwhile, if using canned whole tomatoes, place them in a food processor and blend until you achieve a smooth puree. Add this puree to the skillet over the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle a pinch of ground black pepper and another pinch of sweet paprika, along with the basil leaf. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for another 5-10 minutes until it thickens and acquires a creamy texture.

4. Adding the eggs
Once the sauce has thickened, remove the basil leaf. Make space in the sauce and carefully crack the two eggs, being careful not to break the yolks. Sprinkle a small amount of salt over the eggs. Cover the skillet again with the lid and let the eggs cook in the sauce. The cooking time depends on your preferences: if you like soft eggs, let them cook for a few minutes, and for firmer eggs, let them cook longer.

5. Serving
The eggs in purgatory are ready when the whites are cooked, and the yolks are still slightly soft (or well-cooked, depending on preference). Sprinkle the grated cheese on top and serve the dish hot. This recipe pairs wonderfully with fresh bread or flatbreads, which can be used to 'clean' the plate.

Practical Tips

- For an extra flavor kick, you can add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a bit of chopped chili pepper or chili flakes.
- Instead of basil, you can use oregano or thyme, depending on your preferences.
- To make the recipe heartier, add some slices of sausage or crispy bacon before adding the eggs.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of eggs in purgatory contains approximately 350 calories, providing a good source of protein from the eggs and essential nutrients from the vegetables. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, while the onion and bell pepper add important vitamins and minerals.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but make sure they are well-ripened to achieve a tasty sauce.

- Can leftovers be stored?
Yes, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 1-2 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stove.

- What drinks pair well with this recipe?
A glass of dry white wine or a spiced tomato juice can perfectly complement this meal.

Variations

- Eggs in purgatory with feta cheese: Add crumbled feta cheese on top of the eggs before covering them.
- Vegetarian version: Replace the eggs with tofu for a vegan option, adding spices to give it a similar taste.

I hope this recipe for eggs in purgatory will delight your taste buds and bring a smile to your face! It is a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for brunch or a quick dinner. Enjoy!