Eggs in Purgatory is a warm and comforting dish featuring eggs gently cooked in a spicy tomato sauce. It’s like a little hug in a bowl!
This dish is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! I love scooping up the eggs with crusty bread. It’s such a fun way to enjoy eggs. Who could resist that? 🍳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a lovely flavor to the dish. You can substitute it with avocado oil or even unsalted butter if you prefer a richer taste.
Onion: A small onion works great, but you can use shallots for a milder flavor or even green onions for a slight crunch.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma. In a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but fresh is always more flavorful.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust based on how spicy you like it! If you want a milder dish, you can skip them. Paprika can also be a good swap for a different kind of warmth.
Crushed Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes are convenient, but you can also chop fresh tomatoes if they’re in season. Tomato sauce or diced tomatoes can work too, just adjust cooking time as needed.
Eggs: The fresher, the better! For a lower cholesterol option, you can use egg whites instead of whole eggs.
Feta Cheese: If you’re not a fan of feta, try goat cheese or omit it entirely for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Achieve the Perfectly Cooked Eggs?
Cooking the eggs just right in this dish can be tricky but rewarding! The goal is to have set whites and runny yolks. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Once you’ve added the eggs to the wells in the sauce, cover the skillet. This helps steam the tops of the eggs, cooking them evenly.
- Keep the heat low! This prevents the bottoms from overcooking while allowing the whites to set gently.
- Check after 5 minutes; you want the whites fully set but the yolks slightly wobbly.
With these techniques, you’ll create a beautifully comforting dish. Enjoy your eggs in purgatory with that crispy bread for the perfect dip!
How to Make Eggs in Purgatory
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a satisfying breakfast or a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Olive Oil:
In a cast-iron skillet or medium frying pan, warm up the olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough to cook the onion but not smoking.
2. Sauté the Onion:
Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet. Cook it until it softens and becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so it doesn’t burn!
3. Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute until you can smell the lovely aroma. Be careful not to let the garlic brown too much; you want it fragrant, not burnt!
4. Pour in the Crushed Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to add the crushed tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, and let the mixture simmer for about 8-10 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken up and develop its flavor.
5. Create Wells for the Eggs:
Using a spoon, make three small wells in the bubbling tomato sauce. Gently crack an egg into each well. This is where the magic happens!
6. Cook the Eggs:
Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook until the egg whites are set and the yolks are still runny—this should take about 5-8 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook!
7. Finish and Garnish:
Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and the crumbled feta cheese if you’re using it. This adds a nice salty and creamy touch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Eggs in Purgatory hot with crusty bread. Dip that bread into the rich tomato sauce and runny yolks for a heavenly experience. Enjoy every bite!
With its vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish is sure to warm your heart. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Yes! You can use fresh tomatoes if they’re in season. About 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes, peeled and chopped should work well. Just be sure to cook them down until they become saucy, which might take a bit longer than with canned tomatoes.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can gently warm them on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce moist.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, you can use crumbled goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor, or simply omit it for a dairy-free version. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can also work well if you want to add a cheesy element!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, spinach, or even zucchini to the onion and garlic mixture for added color and nutrition. Just make sure to cook them down until they’re tender before adding the crushed tomatoes.
