Eggs in tomato sauce

Eggs in Tomato Sauce: A Simple and Flavorful Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2-3

Who doesn't love a quick, healthy dish packed with flavors? Eggs in tomato sauce are a perfect choice for any meal of the day, whether it's an energizing breakfast, a comforting lunch, or a light dinner. This recipe has deep roots in culinary tradition, serving as a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something special. Besides being a quick recipe, it’s also a great way to incorporate vegetables into our diet.

Ingredients:
- 1 large onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 cup tomato puree (about 250 ml)
- ½ cup water (about 125 ml)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 3 fresh eggs
- Olive oil or vegetable oil (for sautéing)

Helpful Tips about Ingredients:
- Choose fresh onions with a firm texture for a more intense flavor. Red onions can add an extra touch of sweetness.
- The red bell pepper not only adds vibrant color but also provides a sweet and crunchy taste. You can experiment with yellow or green peppers, depending on your preferences.
- Fresh garlic is essential for adding deep flavor. Avoid garlic powder, as the taste will not be the same.
- Use quality tomato puree, preferably without additives, to enjoy an authentic taste.

Preparation:
1. Preparing the Vegetables: Start by peeling the onion, chopping it finely, and dicing the bell pepper. Crush the garlic lightly with the blade of a knife, then chop it finely.

2. Sautéing the Vegetables: In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and slightly soft. This is the aromatic base of your sauce.

3. Adding the Garlic: Once the onion has softened, add the crushed garlic and sauté everything for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning. The aroma will be irresistible!

4. Making the Sauce: Pour the tomato puree and water into the skillet. Season with dried oregano, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes. This is the perfect time to check the taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking.

5. Cooking the Eggs: After 10 minutes, carefully crack the eggs into the tomato sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and continue to cook for 5 minutes. Check the consistency of the yolk; if you prefer softer eggs, remove them earlier. If you like firmer yolks, leave them on the heat for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Serving and Variations:
Eggs in tomato sauce are delicious served warm, sprinkled with feta cheese or grated cheese, and garnished with freshly chopped parsley or dill. These herbs add a touch of freshness and a pleasant contrast of textures.

If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables to the sauce, such as zucchini or mushrooms, or even some olives for a Mediterranean flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use quail eggs? Yes, quail eggs can be used, and the cooking time will be shorter.
- What can I use instead of tomato puree? You can use, for example, tomato juice or pizza sauce, but the taste will be slightly different.
- Is this a vegetarian recipe? Yes, this recipe is completely vegetarian, ideal for those looking to reduce meat consumption.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe offers an approximate caloric intake of 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the type of oil and cheese used. Eggs are an excellent source of protein, vitamins D and B12, while tomatoes contribute important antioxidants and lycopene, beneficial for heart health.

Serving Suggestion:
For a complete meal, accompany the eggs in tomato sauce with fresh bread or homemade flatbreads. These are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce and turning the meal into a unique culinary experience.

Regardless of the occasion, eggs in tomato sauce are a recipe you will love. It’s simple, quick, and full of flavors that will make you come back to it again and again. Enjoy your meal!