Eggs Poached In Tomato Sauce Recipe

Eggs poached in tomato sauce is a classic dish that brings together the lusciousness of perfectly cooked eggs and the tangy, flavorful goodness of tomato sauce. This recipe has its roots in Italian cuisine and has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of creamy poached eggs and rich tomato sauce is simply irresistible.

Before we dive into the recipe, let's talk about the history of this dish. Poaching eggs in tomato sauce is often attributed to the Italian dish, Shakshuka. However, the concept of poaching eggs in sauce goes back even further. In Italian cuisine, the dish is commonly known as "Eggs in Purgatory" or "Uova in Purgatorio". The name is derived from the eggs being suspended in the fiery red tomato sauce, resembling souls in purgatory.

Now, let's get down to the delicious details of creating this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 1 and 1/2 cups of canned tomatoes, rubbed through a strainer
- A pinch of soda
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sugar to taste
- Eggs (as many as desired)
- Squares of toast for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and cook for about two minutes, stirring continuously. This creates a roux, which will help thicken the tomato sauce.

2. Slowly pour in the canned tomatoes while stirring constantly. This will create a smooth base for the sauce. Continue stirring until the mixture is well combined and starts to thicken.

3. Add a pinch of soda to the sauce. This helps to neutralize the acidity of the tomatoes and create a smoother flavor. Stir well to incorporate the soda into the sauce.

4. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and sugar to taste. Adjust the seasonings according to your preference. Remember, the sauce will further enhance the flavors of the poached eggs, so be generous with the seasoning if desired.

5. Once the sauce has reached a simmer, reduce the heat to low. Create small wells in the sauce and carefully crack the eggs into each well. It's essential to crack the eggs gently to prevent the yolk from breaking.

6. Cook the eggs in the sauce until the whites are firm and the yolks are still slightly runny. Baste the eggs with the tomato sauce occasionally to ensure even cooking. The cooking time may vary depending on your desired level of doneness, but it typically takes about four to five minutes for a perfectly poached egg.

7. While the eggs are cooking, prepare squares of toast to serve as the base for the dish. The toast will absorb the flavorful tomato sauce and provide a delightful contrast in texture.

8. Once the eggs are done, carefully lift them out of the sauce using a slotted spoon and place them on the squares of toast.

9. Finally, pour the tomato sauce generously over the eggs and around them, allowing the flavors to mingle together harmoniously.

Now, for some fun facts about this delectable dish! Eggs poached in tomato sauce can be enjoyed as a satisfying breakfast, brunch, or even dinner option. It is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your tastes. You can add additional ingredients like sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spicy chili flakes for a little extra kick.

This dish is also known for being a comforting and nourishing meal. It provides a good amount of protein from the eggs and vitamins from the tomatoes, making it a healthy choice to start your day.

Additionally, eggs poached in tomato sauce pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, such as focaccia or baguette, for dipping into the sauce and indulging in every last bit of the flavor-infused goodness.

If you're looking for similar recipe dishes, you might find Eggs Benedict an interesting option. Eggs Benedict features poached eggs served on a toasted English muffin with Canadian bacon or smoked salmon, topped with a rich hollandaise sauce. It's a breakfast classic loved by many.

Another similar and delicious dish is Shakshuka, which is a Mediterranean version of eggs poached in tomato sauce. It typically includes bell peppers, onions, and spices such as cumin and paprika simmered in the tomato sauce, creating a delightful fusion of flavors.

So, whether you choose to enjoy eggs poached in tomato sauce for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this dish is sure to please your taste buds with its comforting flavors and hearty components. Give it a try and savor the delightful combination of luscious eggs and tangy tomato sauce!