Ham and egg baskets

Ham and Egg Cups – a quick and delicious recipe for a savory breakfast

Do you want a breakfast that is both tasty and quick to prepare? Ham and egg cups are the perfect choice! These mini delights are not only appealing but also versatile, allowing you to play with the ingredients according to your preferences. I invite you to discover with me how you can transform a few simple ingredients into a true morning feast.

Preparation time: 5 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2

The history of ham and egg cups is fascinating. These dishes evolved from the tradition of using available ingredients creatively, transforming them into quick and tasty meals. Over time, people have found ingenious ways to combine meat, eggs, and cheese, resulting in dishes that have become classics in many culinary cultures. These cups are perfectly adapted to the modern lifestyle, where time is not always on our side.

Necessary ingredients:

- 2 slices of ham (preferably Prague ham or prosciutto for a more intense flavor)
- 2 fresh eggs
- 50 g mozzarella (or any other type of cheese you prefer, such as cheddar or feta)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste

Ingredient tips:

1. Ham: Choose a quality ham without artificial additives. A smoked variant will add a special flavor to your cups.
2. Eggs: Use fresh, farm eggs for a richer taste and a more vibrant yolk color.
3. Mozzarella: You can use fresh mozzarella or shredded mozzarella, depending on your preferences. If you like saltier cheese, opt for feta.

Step-by-step preparation technique:

1. Preparing the mold: Preheat the oven to 180 °C. Choose a muffin tin and grease it with a little oil or butter to prevent the cups from sticking.

2. Forming the cups: Take the slices of ham and place them in each cavity of the muffin tin, forming a cup. Make sure the edges of the ham overlap slightly to prevent the eggs from leaking.

3. Adding the eggs: Carefully crack an egg into each ham cup. Be careful to keep the egg white and yolk intact.

4. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. If desired, you can also add some herbs, such as dill or basil, for an extra flavor boost.

5. Cheese: Add a few pieces of mozzarella on top of each egg. It will melt beautifully during baking, adding extra flavor.

6. Baking: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 10 minutes or until the egg white is firm, and the yolk remains slightly soft (if you prefer a firmer yolk, leave it in the oven for a few extra minutes).

7. Serving: Remove the cups from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before taking them out of the tray. They can be served warm, alongside a fresh salad or on a slice of toasted bread.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I add other ingredients? Yes, you can experiment with vegetables (such as spinach or peppers), different types of cheese, or even spices to customize your cups.

2. How can I make the recipe healthier? You can replace the ham with a turkey variant or soy ham for a vegetarian option. You can also use light cheese.

3. How can I store the cups? These cups can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days, and if you want to reheat them, use the oven to bring them back to life.

Delicious combinations:

These ham and egg cups can be accompanied by a tomato and cucumber salad, a fresh smoothie, or a fragrant tea. You can also enjoy a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice alongside them for an energizing morning.

Nutritional benefits:

- Eggs are an excellent source of protein, vitamins B12 and D, as well as essential minerals.
- Ham provides protein and iron, contributing to a balanced diet.
- Mozzarella brings calcium and protein, being a healthy choice in a varied diet.

Possible variations:

1. Vegetable cups: Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for an extra nutrient boost.
2. Spicy cups: Add a few slices of hot pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
3. Avocado cups: After baking, add a few slices of avocado on top for extra creaminess and health benefits.

A personal note:

For me, ham and egg cups have always been a cherished recipe, a memory from childhood when my mother made them for weekend breakfasts. Their aroma takes me back to tables filled with laughter and stories. I encourage you to share this recipe with your loved ones, turning every meal into a special moment!

Happy cooking!