Imagine a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, bursting with vibrant flavors and the essence of Italian home cooking. Welcome to "Eggs Purgatory," a delightful twist on the classic shakshuka that will transport your taste buds straight to a sun-kissed Italian kitchen! With a rich, spiced tomato sauce enveloping perfectly poached eggs, this recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you're looking for a hearty brunch or a cozy dinner, this dish promises to impress and satisfy. Ready to dive into a culinary adventure that’s both simple and sensational? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 4 eggs
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by chopping onion, mincing garlic, and dicing red bell pepper. Ensure all ingredients are ready before starting cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and chopped red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then sprinkle paprika and cumin over the mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients and create a rich, aromatic sauce.
- Reduce heat to low-medium and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to slightly thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Create four small wells or indentations in the sauce using the back of a spoon. Carefully crack an egg into each well, ensuring they remain separate.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until egg whites are set but yolks remain runny. Monitor closely to achieve desired egg doneness.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves. The eggs should be nestled in the vibrant, spiced tomato sauce.
- Serve immediately, directly from the skillet, with crusty bread or toasted Italian bread for dipping and soaking up the delicious sauce.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To streamline your cooking process, chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the red bell pepper before you start. Having everything ready to go makes for a smoother cooking experience.
- Perfectly Cooked Eggs: For runny yolks, cover the skillet and cook the eggs for just 6-8 minutes. If you prefer firmer yolks, extend the cooking time slightly, but keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh basil adds a delightful aroma and flavor, but you can also experiment with other herbs like parsley or cilantro for a different twist.
- Serve with Style: This dish is best enjoyed straight from the skillet. Pair it with crusty bread or toasted Italian bread to soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite a heavenly experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 190mg
