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I made a new friend – Shanam.

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Shanam and I get on great for 3 reasons…
we both have been through similar experiences
we both have similar personalities
and we both share an undeniable passion for cookingDSC_0038
So when we do hangout, our conversations revolve around food, naturally, and discussing our latest and greatest recipe creations.DSC_0054
Our eyes light up at the mere mention of food.  Boring for some, exciting for us.DSC_0062
But aside from cooking, Shanam is someone I consider a warm and genuine person.  Our connection was instant.  Her experiences have made her who she is today, a strong and wise person whom I continue to learn from.DSC_0066
As I go through life, I find that certain people come to you at a point when you need them most, and Shanam came into my life at the right time.  DSC_0068
And now let’s talk about this dish.  Not too long ago, Shanam made me Caprese Sunny Side Eggs, and I told her essentially what she made me was a basic form of Eggs in Purgatory.DSC_0069
I kicked up Shanam’s recipe up a notch and bring you my version of Eggs in Purgatory (aka Italian Shakshuka).DSC_0072
Steamed eggs in a sauté of cherry tomatoes and garlic combined with spicy pepper, sweet basil, and creamy Parmesan.  Honestly, there is nothing “purgatory” about this dish, but rather, it is “heavenly.”  DSC_0075
Enjoy this dish with toast to soak up all the juices, or skip the carbs altogether.  Thanks Shanam, you were my inspiration.DSC_0082


INGREDIENTS (makes 2 to 4 servings):

  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil – 1 tbsp
  • Shallots – 2 (chopped)
  • Cherry Tomatoes – 2.5 cups (sliced in half)
  • Garlic – 2 cloves (chopped)
  • Crushed Red Pepper – 1 tsp
  • Salt – to taste
  • Black Pepper – to taste
  • Organic Eggs – 4
  • Parmesan Cheese – 1/4 cup  (optional, or use less, tastes amazing even without cheese)
  • Basil – 1/2 cup (garnish)



DIRECTIONS:
1. Chop garlic and shallots.  Set aside.  Half the cherry tomatoes.  IMG_4082
2. Heat up a cast-iron skillet on medium heat.  Once warmed through, add oil.  Add the garlic and shallots.  Cook for about 2 minutes or until the shallots are very slightly golden.IMG_4084
3. Add the cherry tomatoes along with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper.  Stir.  Allow this to cook for 5 minutes.IMG_4086
4. After 5 minutes, the tomatoes should be a little softer, use a fork to mash the cherry tomatoes.  Careful – it squirts.IMG_4088
5. Result.IMG_4090
6. Make wells in the tomato mixture and crack an egg into the well.  IMG_4092
7. Do this 4 times.IMG_4094
8. Cover with a lid for 5 minutes – I don’t like my eggs runny, but if you prefer runny eggs, check after 3 minutes.  IMG_4095
9. In the meantime, grate Parmesan cheese and julienne basil. IMG_4097
10. Check on the eggs.IMG_4098
11. Top with Parmesan cheese and cover with a lid for 2-3 minutes, again depends on how runny you like your eggs.  IMG_4099
12. Once done.  Turn off the stove.  Top with basil.  Serve immediately.IMG_4101

Eggs in Purgatory

Hi, I'm Nisha!

A foodie passionate about bringing authentic Indian recipes and global flavors to your kitchen. I create dishes using simple, real ingredients, and seasonal produce. Join me on this soul-searching journey as I share "what's cooking" through my love for good food. I hope to inspire you to cook more at home, explore new flavors, and enjoy the process along the way.


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18 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    LOVE!!!! LOVE!!!! LOVE!!! THIS RECIPE!!!!

    I followed this recipe yesterday and it turned out so delicious. Me and my husband enjoyed this dish like anything and its gluten free. Now on, this recipe will be on my weekly menu. Thanks Nisha for this gluten free recipe.

  2. So I just recently made a cherry tomato, mozzerlla, and basil cold pasta dish earlier this week. Pretty much all the same ingredients just mixed up slightly differently… so since I already have the ingredients on hand, I'll definitely be trying this out this weekend!

  3. This looks delicious! And yes, I believe we all meet the right people at the right time 🙂

  4. That's a beautiful dish. The use of baby tomatoes are a light sauce is absolutely amazing idea.
    It's so interesting how some people become so vital to our lives. It's a blessing to have good friends around.