Tomato stew with egg

Tomato Stew with Eggs - a traditional, quick, and delicious recipe

Tomato stew with eggs is a rustic dish, full of flavor and childhood memories, bringing together the fresh aromas of the garden. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for a family meal, offering not only a delicious taste but also an explosion of colors and textures. Whether served as a main dish or as a side, this stew will delight your taste buds.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 large onion (preferably white or yellow for a sweeter flavor)
- 2 red bell peppers (for a sweet taste and a vibrant color)
- 5 large garden tomatoes (ideally fresh and ripe)
- 4-5 garlic cloves (for added flavor)
- A handful of fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Oregano (1-2 tablespoons, to enhance the flavor)
- 2 eggs (for a creamy texture)
- Olive oil (for cooking)

Step-by-step preparation

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion and bell pepper. These will form the flavorful base of the stew. Crush or finely chop the garlic to release all its aromas. The tomatoes should be well-ripened; wash them and prepare them for blanching.

2. Blanch the tomatoes: Bring a pot of water to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the tomatoes for 1-2 minutes, then remove them and immediately place them in cold water. This method will make peeling easier. Once they have cooled slightly, peel and puree them using a food processor. Leave some pulp for a pleasant texture in the stew.

3. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. The olive oil will not only provide a wonderful taste but also add nutritional benefits, being rich in antioxidants.

4. Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. If you want to add a splash of flavor, you can include a bit of water to help the vegetables soften. Cook them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent.

5. Add the garlic: Once the onion and bell pepper are well sautéed, add the crushed garlic, salt, oregano, and pepper. If you like a bit of spice, you can also add a pinch of chili powder. Cook everything together for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

6. Incorporate the tomatoes: Pour the pureed tomatoes into the skillet and mix well. Let the stew simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. During this time, the flavors will concentrate and blend perfectly.

7. Add the eggs: After the stew has simmered, beat the eggs in a bowl and gradually pour them into the skillet, stirring continuously. This step will provide a creamy texture and enhance the flavor. Continue to cook for 5 minutes until the eggs are fully integrated.

8. Finalize the dish: Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top and let it cook for a few more minutes to combine the flavors.

Serving

Tomato stew with eggs is served warm, ideally alongside some slices of freshly baked homemade bread or, as I discovered, with crispy smoked bacon, which adds a note of flavor and substance to the dish. You can also serve it with a fresh green salad for a pleasant contrast.

Tips and variations

1. Vegetarian option: You can replace the eggs with beaten tofu or sour cream for a vegan version.
2. Flavors: Experiment with other herbs, such as basil or thyme, to customize the recipe.
3. Additions: If you want to enrich the stew, you can add black or green olives, mushrooms, or even feta cheese.

Nutritional benefits

This stew is not only delicious but also healthy. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, while eggs provide quality protein. Additionally, fresh vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned tomatoes?: Yes, but for a fresher taste, fresh tomatoes are recommended.
2. How long does the stew keep in the fridge?: It can be stored for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the fridge.
3. Can it be frozen?: It is recommended not to freeze the eggs. You can only freeze the vegetable mixture without the eggs.

Tomato stew with eggs is a simple recipe but with a remarkable culinary impact. It is easy to make and full of flavor, perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe and enjoy its aromas and colors!