Flamenco Eggs (Huevos a la Flamenca)
Introduction
Flamenco Eggs, or Huevos a la Flamenca, are a traditional Spanish dish hailing from the region of Andalusia. Known for its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this dish reflects the passion and artistry of flamenco itself - a fiery dance that embodies the soul of Spanish culture. Often enjoyed as a hearty brunch or a light dinner, this dish is versatile and deeply satisfying.
The dish consists of eggs baked on a bed of assorted vegetables, tomato sauce, and often includes flavorful Spanish chorizo and ham. Its preparation is straightforward, making it accessible to home cooks while delivering a taste of Spain right to your table.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 100g chorizo, sliced
- 100g serrano ham, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Preparation
Before you begin, gather all your ingredients and set up a timer to help with the cooking process. Flame-enco Eggs are best enjoyed fresh and hot, straight from the oven.
Step 1: Preparing the Base
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add the red bell pepper and green bell pepper and continue to sauté until the peppers soften, approx. 10 minutes.
Step 2: Adding Meats and Spices
Stir in the chorizo and serrano ham. Cook until the chorizo releases its oils and becomes slightly crispy. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to ensure even distribution of the spices.
Step 3: Tomato Mixture
Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing them to soften and meld with the other ingredients. The mixture should be thick and well-combined.
Step 4: Assemble and Cook
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the vegetable and meat mixture into a large, oven-safe dish. Create four small wells in the mixture, and crack an egg into each well. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain slightly runny. Monitor closely with a timer to avoid overcooking the eggs.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Flamenco Eggs can be served with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce and runny yolks. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a sparkling water with a splash of lemon for an authentic Spanish dining experience.
Enjoying Flamenco Eggs
Savor the rich flavors and colors of this Andalusian delight, whether enjoyed alone or shared with friends and family. Each bite is a journey to the heart of Spain, where simplicity meets bold taste, making for a truly unforgettable meal.