Eggs in Purgatory

Eggs in Purgatory is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of spicy tomato sauce and perfectly poached eggs. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. With its comforting ingredients and bold taste, this dish promises to satisfy your cravings while being easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be whipped up in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings or spontaneous meals.
• Flavorful and Spicy: The combination of red pepper flakes and smoked paprika gives this recipe a delicious kick that elevates the simple ingredients.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from fresh spinach and protein from eggs, it’s a healthy choice for any meal.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite herbs to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Sharing: With just two servings, it’s an excellent option for a cozy brunch with a friend or loved one.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Eggs in Purgatory, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right tools will ensure a smooth cooking experience and great results.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Small bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and simmering sauces, allowing even heat distribution.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while providing good control over mixing ingredients.
• Small bowl: Useful for cracking eggs without risk of breaking the yolks into the main dish.

Ingredients

This spicy Eggs in Purgatory involves eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce, making for an easy, anytime meal.

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic, (minced)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 28 ounces canned diced tomatoes
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 3 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese slices, (broken into pieces)
• 4 large eggs
• fresh dill, (for garnish (or other herbs such as cilantro, parsley, and basil))
• parmesan cheese, (optional, for garnish)
• toasted bread slices, (for serving)

How to Make Eggs in Purgatory

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add minced garlic to the skillet and continue to sauté for an additional 20 seconds or until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Spices

Add in red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and turn the heat down to medium-low. Simmer uncovered until the tomatoes thicken into a sauce, about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate Spinach

Stir in the fresh baby spinach and mix thoroughly until wilted.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Arrange mozzarella cheese randomly throughout the tomato mixture. Create four divots using the back of a spoon.

Step 6: Crack Eggs

Crack each egg into a small bowl carefully. Gently add one egg into each hole you created. Season with salt and pepper. For soft yolks, cover and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes; if you prefer firmer eggs, continue cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 7: Toast Bread

While eggs are cooking, toast some bread with butter on a hot pan or griddle. Set aside once done.

Step 8: Serve

When eggs are cooked to your liking, top them with fresh dill and sprinkle with optional parmesan cheese along with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot with toasted bread slices on the side.

How to Serve Eggs in Purgatory

Serving Eggs in Purgatory is not just about the dish itself; it’s also about enhancing the eating experience. Pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate this simple yet flavorful meal to new heights.

With Toasted Bread

• Crispy Slices: Use your favorite type of bread, like sourdough or whole grain, toasted to a golden crisp for dipping into the rich tomato sauce.
• Herbed Butter: Spread a layer of herbed butter on your toast for added flavor that complements the spicy sauce.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with Dill: Fresh dill adds a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the dish.
• Sprinkle with Basil: Chopped fresh basil offers a sweet aroma that enhances the overall taste profile.

As a Breakfast Bowl

• Serve Over Quinoa: For a hearty twist, serve your eggs and sauce over cooked quinoa for added protein and fiber.
• Add Avocado: Sliced avocado on top provides creaminess and healthy fats, making it even more satisfying.

How to Perfect Eggs in Purgatory

To achieve the best results when making Eggs in Purgatory, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.

• Bold Flavors: Use high-quality canned tomatoes as they form the base of your sauce. The richer the tomatoes, the better the flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your preference.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always opt for fresh spinach and mozzarella for enhanced texture and taste.
• Perfectly Poached Eggs: To ensure a runny yolk, be mindful of cooking time; aim for 3 to 5 minutes under cover.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While mozzarella is traditional, try using feta or goat cheese for a different flavor dimension.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking while everything is warm and fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Eggs in Purgatory

Pairing sides with Eggs in Purgatory can enhance your meal experience. Here are some wonderful options to consider.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers roasted until tender add color and nutrition to your plate.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the eggs.
3. Feta Cheese Crumbles: Adding crumbled feta can introduce a tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the spicy sauce.
4. Hummus and Veggie Sticks: A side of hummus with crunchy carrots and celery sticks makes for a nutritious appetizer option.
5. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit mix brings sweetness that balances out the savory flavors of the main dish.
6. Savory Oatmeal: Creamy oatmeal seasoned lightly can be an interesting side that absorbs some of the tomato sauce’s flavors.
7. Grilled Polenta Squares: These provide a delightful texture contrast and soak up all those delicious juices from the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Eggs in Purgatory, it’s easy to overlook some key techniques. Here are common mistakes that can affect your dish.

• Skipping the Sautéing: Failing to sauté the onion and garlic properly can lead to a lack of flavor. Always ensure they are translucent and fragrant before adding other ingredients.
• Overcooking the Eggs: Cooking the eggs for too long can result in rubbery textures. Keep an eye on them; cover and cook for just 3-5 minutes for runny yolks.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Under-seasoning is a common mistake that can dull the dish’s flavors. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as necessary throughout the cooking process.
• Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: Poor-quality canned tomatoes can impact the sauce’s taste. Opt for high-quality diced tomatoes for a rich flavor.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Skipping fresh herbs can make your dish taste flat. Always finish with fresh dill or your favorite herbs for an aromatic touch.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for best quality.

Freezing Eggs in Purgatory

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best consumed within 1–2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Eggs in Purgatory

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to create steam, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are traditional ingredients in Eggs in Purgatory?

Traditional ingredients include poached eggs cooked in a spicy tomato sauce, often garnished with fresh herbs and cheese.

Can I customize my Eggs in Purgatory?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini and even swap out the cheese for a dairy-free option.

How do I serve Eggs in Purgatory?

Serve it hot with toasted bread slices on the side for dipping. It pairs well with salads as well!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply skip any meat products and focus on delicious vegetables and spices.

Conclusion

Eggs in Purgatory is an incredibly versatile dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. The combination of spicy tomato sauce, poached eggs, and melted cheese creates a comforting meal that’s easy to customize. Whether you want to add more veggies or try different herbs, this recipe invites creativity. Give it a try today!

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