Tunisian Eggs and Peppers

Tunisian Eggs and Peppers Recipe - Authentic North African Cuisine

Region / culture: Tunisia | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tunisian Eggs and Peppers is a flavorful and colorful dish that combines the richness of eggs with the sweetness of bell peppers and the heat of chili peppers. This dish is perfect for a hearty breakfast or a light dinner.

History

Tunisian Eggs and Peppers is a traditional Tunisian dish that is popular throughout North Africa. It is a simple and delicious dish that is often served as a main course or as part of a mezze spread.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
1 fresh red chili, seeded and finely chopped
6 tomatoes, peeled and quartered
salt and freshly ground pepper
2 tsp chopped fresh mint
4 eggs
mint sprigs, for garnish

How to prepare

Heat oil in a heavy skillet.
Add onion and cook for 5 minutes or until soft.
Add bell peppers and chile, cover and cook for 8 minutes or until bell peppers are just tender.
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
Add tomatoes to bell pepper mixture, cover and cook for 5 to 8 minutes or until vegetables are blended but still retain their shape and texture.
Season with salt and pepper and stir in mint.
Divide mixture among four ovenproof dishes.
Make an indentation in vegetables and carefully add an egg to each one.
Cook in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until eggs have set.
Garnish with mint sprigs and serve.

Variations

Add cooked chickpeas or lentils for extra protein.
Top with crumbled feta cheese for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are just tender to ensure they retain their shape and texture.

- Make sure to preheat the oven before adding the eggs to ensure they cook evenly.

- Garnish with fresh mint for a burst of flavor and color.

Serving Suggestions

Tunisian Eggs and Peppers can be served with crusty bread or pita bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are just tender to ensure they retain their shape and texture.

- Preheat the oven before adding the eggs to ensure they cook evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any color bell peppers for this recipe.

- You can use dried mint instead of fresh mint.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the vegetable mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake with the eggs.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Tunisian Eggs and Peppers in individual ovenproof dishes for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Tunisian Eggs and Peppers pair well with a fresh salad or a side of couscous.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tunisian Eggs and Peppers contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Tunisian Eggs and Peppers contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Tunisian Eggs and Peppers contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Tunisian Eggs and Peppers contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Tunisian Eggs and Peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and folate.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs.

Summary

Tunisian Eggs and Peppers are a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. They are a great source of protein and healthy fats.

Summary

Tunisian Eggs and Peppers are a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any meal of the day. With a blend of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Tunisian Eggs and Peppers. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old recipe book that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a faded piece of paper tucked between the pages. The title read "Tunisian Eggs and Peppers", and my interest was piqued.

I had never heard of Tunisian cuisine before, let alone a dish that combined eggs and peppers. But the description on the paper painted a mouth-watering picture of a flavorful and spicy breakfast dish that was sure to awaken the taste buds.

I knew I had to give it a try. The next day, I set out to gather all the ingredients listed on the recipe. I made my way to the local market, where I carefully selected fresh bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and eggs. I could already imagine the vibrant colors and rich flavors coming together in a harmonious blend.

Back in my kitchen, I followed the instructions on the recipe with meticulous care. I chopped the peppers and onions, sautéed them in a fragrant blend of spices, and added in the tomatoes to create a tantalizing sauce. Finally, I cracked the eggs into the mixture and let them cook until they were perfectly set.

As the dish simmered on the stove, the aroma of cumin, paprika, and garlic filled the air, transporting me to a bustling market in Tunisia. I could almost hear the chatter of vendors and the sizzle of street food being cooked on open flames.

When the Tunisian Eggs and Peppers were finally ready, I plated them with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a side of crusty bread. I took my first bite, and my taste buds erupted in a symphony of flavors. The spicy kick of the peppers, the creamy texture of the eggs, and the tangy sweetness of the tomatoes all danced on my palate in perfect harmony.

I savored every mouthful, relishing in the complex and satisfying flavors that I had never experienced before. It was a culinary adventure unlike any other, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come.

Since that fateful day, Tunisian Eggs and Peppers have become a beloved dish in my household. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all marveled at the unique blend of flavors and textures that make this dish so special.

But the true magic of Tunisian Eggs and Peppers lies not just in its delicious taste, but in the journey of discovery that led me to uncover this hidden gem of a recipe. It serves as a reminder that inspiration can be found in the most unexpected of places, and that the world of cuisine is a vast and wondrous playground waiting to be explored.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the serendipitous moment that brought Tunisian Eggs and Peppers into my life, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary treasures that have been passed down to me through generations. Each recipe holds a story, a memory, and a connection to the past that enriches my life in ways that words cannot express.

And so, I will continue to cook, to experiment, and to learn, in the hopes of uncovering more hidden gems like Tunisian Eggs and Peppers that will bring joy and flavor to those around me. The kitchen is my sanctuary, and the recipes that I hold dear are my legacy to be cherished and shared for years to come.