Eggs Purgatory is a bold, comforting one-pan meal made with perfectly poached eggs simmered in a spicy, savory tomato sauce. This Italian-inspired dish combines the warmth of spices with the richness of eggs, creating a delightful balance that makes it an irresistible choice for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. The vibrant colors and flavors of this dish not only nourish the body but also the soul, making it a staple in many Mediterranean kitchens. Whether you enjoy it with crusty bread or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, Eggs Purgatory is the ultimate comfort food that everyone should try at least once.
Why You’ll Love This Eggs Purgatory
This dish is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with Eggs Purgatory:
- It’s a quick and easy recipe, perfect for busy mornings.
- It features healthy ingredients, making it a great option for a light meal.
- This one-pan egg recipe minimizes cleanup time.
- It’s vegetarian-friendly, ideal for Meatless Mondays or brunch gatherings.
- With its spicy tomato sauce, it offers a flavorful kick that awakens your senses.
- It can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices.
What’s more, the combination of poached eggs in tomato sauce creates a Mediterranean egg dish that is both satisfying and comforting.
Ingredients for Eggs Purgatory
Gather these items:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 (28 oz / 800 g) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 4–6 large eggs
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Optional: grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese, crusty bread for serving
How to Make Eggs Purgatory Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook 30 seconds.
- Step 2: Add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, oregano, and sugar (if using). Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Step 3: Make small wells in the sauce and crack eggs into each well. Cover the skillet.
- Step 4: Cook 5–8 minutes until whites are set and yolks reach desired doneness.
- Step 5: Garnish with fresh herbs and cheese. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Pro Tips for the Best Eggs Purgatory
Keep these in mind:
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Adjust the level of crushed red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
- If your eggs are not cooking evenly, cover the skillet to trap steam.
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce.
These tips can enhance your experience in making this delicious one-pan meal.
Best Ways to Serve Eggs Purgatory
There are many delightful ways to enjoy Eggs Purgatory:
- Serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.
- Top it with crumbled feta or goat cheese for added creaminess.
- Pair it with a simple salad for a complete meal.
These serving ideas ensure your dish is as enjoyable as it is comforting.
How to Store and Reheat Eggs Purgatory
To store Eggs Purgatory, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. This dish also makes for a fantastic meal prep option, allowing you to enjoy wholesome, homemade meals throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eggs Purgatory
What’s the secret to perfect Eggs Purgatory?
The secret lies in the tomato sauce. Using quality canned tomatoes and allowing the sauce to simmer until thickened ensures robust flavor. Adjusting the seasoning with herbs and spices enhances the dish further.
Can I make Eggs Purgatory ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the tomato sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the eggs when you’re ready to serve, ensuring they are fresh and perfectly cooked.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Eggs Purgatory?
To avoid overcooking the eggs, keep an eye on them while cooking and cover the skillet to help the whites set without hardening the yolks. Practice will make perfect!
Variations of Eggs Purgatory You Can Try
There are countless variations to explore with Eggs Purgatory:
- Try adding spinach or kale for a nutrition boost.
- Incorporate bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies.
- Use spicy sausage or chorizo for a heartier dish.
Feel free to experiment with these ideas while keeping the core essence of this comforting Mediterranean egg dish intact.
For more about the Mediterranean diet, check out this Healthline article.
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PrintEggs Purgatory: 5 Bold Steps to Comforting Bliss
Eggs in Purgatory is a bold, comforting one-pan meal made with perfectly poached eggs simmered in a spicy, savory tomato sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2-4 1x
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 (28 oz / 800 g) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 4–6 large eggs
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Optional: grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese, crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook 30 seconds.
- Add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, oregano, and sugar (if using). Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Make small wells in the sauce and crack eggs into each well. Cover the skillet.
- Cook 5–8 minutes until whites are set and yolks reach desired doneness.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and cheese. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Notes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 370mg











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