Eggs in Purgatory (Uova al purgatorio)

Eggs in Purgatory (Uova al purgatorio)

Eggs in Purgatory are a classic of Italian cuisine, symbolizing the simplicity and intense flavor of Mediterranean dishes. This preparation combines fresh eggs with a rich tomato sauce flavored with garlic and chili pepper, creating a dish with a bold yet balanced taste.

Originating from Southern Italy, Eggs in Purgatory are a quick and nutritious solution for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner. Served hot with rustic bread, they let you enjoy every drop of the sauce and are perfect both as a main course and as a tasty side dish.

Their versatility and ease of preparation make them a staple in Italian home kitchens and a dish appreciated abroad as well.

🍽️ Serves: 4 ⏲️ Time: 25-30 minutes

🧺 Ingredients:

• 8 eggs

• 800 gr peeled tomatoes

• 200 ml water

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (EVO)

• 2 garlic cloves

• Salt to taste

• Chili powder to taste
  

🥣 Instructions:

1. Prepare the sauce

   In a large non-stick pan, pour the olive oil and add the garlic cloves, either crushed or finely chopped. Sauté briefly over medium heat until the garlic releases its aroma without burning.
   

2. Add the tomatoes

   Add the tomato and mix well with the oil and garlic. Pour in the water to thin the sauce slightly and cook over medium-low heat for about 25 minutes, until it begins to thicken. Season with salt and chili to taste.
   

3. Create “nests” for the eggs

   Using a spoon, gently make small wells in the sauce to hold the eggs. This helps them stay whole and cook evenly.
   

4. Add the eggs

   Crack the eggs directly into the wells you’ve made in the sauce. Cover the pan with a lid and cook over low heat until the whites are completely set and the yolks remain soft — about 5–7 minutes, adjusting the time based on your preferred doneness.
   

5. Serving

   Gently remove the eggs with a slotted spoon and transfer them to plates. Drizzle with a little raw extra virgin olive oil. Serve immediately with rustic bread to soak up the rich, flavorful sauce.

💡Tips:

• Use fresh seasonal tomatoes or a high-quality tomato purée for a rich and flavorful sauce.

• Cook the eggs until the whites are firm but the yolks remain soft; adjust the cooking time according to your taste.