Uova in Purgatorio (Eggs in Purgatory)

Uova in Purgatorio (Eggs in Purgatory)

A classic Neapolitan dish featuring eggs gently poached in a spicy, aromatic tomato marinara sauce. The rich, runny yolks mix with the tangy tomato acidity, creating a luxurious dip for garlic-rubbed country bread.

20mEasy1 serving

Equipment

Small skillet with tight-fitting lid
Toaster or Grill Pan
Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

1 serving

Spicy Marinara Base

  • 15 ml olive oil, extra virgin
  • 1 garlic, sliced thin
  • 1 g red pepper flakes
  • 200 g canned crushed tomatoes, high quality
  • 2 g salt

Eggs

  • 2 eggs, large, room temperature
  • 10 g parmesan cheese, grated
  • 5 g fresh basil, chiffonade

Garlic Toast

  • 1 country bread, thick slice
  • 1 garlic clove, whole, peeled

Nutrition (per serving)

508
Calories
24g
Protein
33g
Carbs
29g
Fat
5g
Fiber
10g
Sugar
1515mg
Sodium

Method

01

Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden (do not burn).

2mLook for: Garlic is pale goldFeel: Fragrant aroma
02

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt. Simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and flavors meld.

7mLook for: Sauce has reduced slightly
03

Reduce heat to low. Use a wooden spoon to make two small divots in the sauce. Crack an egg into each divot.

Look for: Eggs nested in sauce
04

Cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for 3-5 minutes, checking frequently, until the whites are opaque and set, but the yolks remain runny. (Cook longer for firm yolks).

4mLook for: Whites opaque, yolks jiggly
05

While eggs cook, toast the bread slice until golden brown. Immediately rub the cut side of the raw garlic clove against the rough surface of the hot toast.

Look for: Golden brownFeel: Crisp
06

Remove skillet from heat. Season eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh basil. Serve immediately with the garlic toast.

Chef's Notes

  • For a deeper flavor profile, deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine before adding the tomatoes.
  • If you are concerned about raw eggs, cook covered until the yolks form a pale film over the top (approx. 6-7 minutes total).
  • This dish scales easily; use a larger pan and increase ingredients proportionally for more servings.
  • Rubbing raw garlic on hot toast (Bruschetta style) provides a punchier, fresher garlic flavor than cooking it in butter.

Storage

Refrigerator: 1 dayBest eaten immediately. Reheated eggs become rubbery.

Reheating: Gently warm sauce in a pan; eggs will likely overcook upon reheating.

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