Dietitians encourage you to include eggs in your diet because they have a wide range of health-promoting effects. You will find a lot of protein, vitamins and minerals in them. What’s more, they support the functioning of the brain and heart, strengthen bones and muscles, ensure good eyesight, and keep you full for long hours. So without hesitation, start your day with egg breakfast. In the article below, we will tell you the recipe for an unusual dish, i.e eggs in purgatory.
In the autumn and winter, when the mornings are cool, it is worth choosing warming breakfasts. If you like shakshuka, you’ll definitely like these too Italian uova in purgatorio, i.e. eggs in purgatory. The origins of the name of this dish may cause quite a surprise. It probably comes from old ideas about purgatory, where souls (eggs) are supposed to be immersed in a fiery space suspended between worlds (tomato sauce). Mention of this dish appeared in a cookbook from 1837 by the Neapolitan chef Ippolito Cavalcanti entitled “Cucina teorico-pratica”, in Polish “Theoretical and practical cooking”.
It’s worth adding that Eggs in Purgatory is not only tasty, but also a very healthy breakfast. Eggs are an excellent source of complete proteinwhich is an essential building substance for the body and affects the satiety of the meal. They are also present here vitamins A, those from group B, D, E and K, as well as minerals including zinc, selenium, phosphorus and iron. This composition of nutrients has a positive effect on the functioning of the nervous, cardiovascular and muscular systems, as well as the health of the eyes, bones and skin.
Whereas tomatoes in the form of sauce are an excellent source of lycopene, an antioxidant that has anti-inflammatory properties, neutralizes the harmful effects of free radicals, and supports the circulatory system. It is also found in the dish parsley, which provides vitamin C, having antioxidant properties, supporting immunity and ensuring proper iron absorption and collagen synthesis.
Olive oil contained in the dish is a source of valuable omega-3 unsaturated fatty acidswhich take care of the circulatory system, heart health, and also have anti-atherosclerosis properties, they also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It combines perfectly with sweet Italian tomatoes, delicious olive oil and parsley garlicwhich not only enhances the taste of the dish, but also stabilizes blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
When preparing this dish, it is worth investing in the best quality ingredients. Country eggs or free-range ones, canned Italian tomatoes and good quality olive oil, original Italian parmesan, as well as Polish garlic and fresh and firm parsley. This will make the dish taste even better.
The original recipe for eggs in purgatory contains a larger amount of tomatoes (approx. 800 g), but the sauce reduction time is approximately 45 minutes. That’s why we’ve prepared a version that will take a little less time. So you won’t have to wait long for a delicious breakfast.
Makes two servings breakfast inspired by eggs in purgatory, you will need:
- 4 eggs,
- 500 g canned tomatoes,
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil,
- 2 cloves of garlic
- ½ bunch of parsley,
- salt and pepper to taste,
- a small piece of parmesan rind.
Preparation:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan and add the sliced garlic. Fry until golden brown.
- Add the tomatoes, it is worth crushing them with a fork beforehand.
- Add parmesan rind, parsley stalks and season with salt. Mix the ingredients, fry until the sauce thickens. Season the dish with pepper.
- Using a spatula, make four indentations in the sauce and add the eggs, cover them with a lid and wait until they set.
- At the end, remove the Parmesan rind and parsley stalks.
- Finally, sprinkle the dish with chopped parsley.
You can also add your other favorite additions to the dish, e.g. peppers, chili, olives or capers. Serve ready-made eggs in purgatory with your favorite bread. You can also lightly toast them in a dry pan.
Sources: Terazgotuje.pl, breadinthebeard.com
