Pili Pili Eggs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with bold, spicy flavor from fresh chili and garlic
• Simple ingredients, ready in under 30 minutes
• Versatile enjoy for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner
• Customizable heat level depending on your chili of choice
• Perfect for scooping up with flatbread or toast
• Vegetarian-friendly and hearty

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup cherry tomatoes
3 garlic cloves or ¼ small onion
1 fresh medium hot chili pepper, such as serrano or Fresno
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Fine sea salt
6 large eggs
Fresh cilantro, chili flakes, and warm flatbread or toast, for serving

Directions

1. Place the cherry tomatoes, garlic (or onion), and chili pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend into a coarse sauce.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the blended sauce and season with salt. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and slightly caramelized.
3. Reduce the heat to low. Crack the eggs directly into the sauce, spacing them slightly apart. Cover and cook until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny, about 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and chili flakes.
5. Serve hot with warm flatbread or toast for dipping.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 to 3 servings.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add smoked paprika or cumin to the sauce for depth.
• Stir in spinach, kale, or bell peppers for extra veggies.
• Use red pepper flakes instead of fresh chili if preferred.
• Add feta cheese or goat cheese for creaminess.
• Replace cherry tomatoes with canned crushed tomatoes for convenience.

Storage/Reheating

Pili pili eggs are best served fresh, as eggs tend to lose their texture when reheated. If needed, store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day and reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through.

FAQs

What does “pili pili” mean?

“Pili pili” is a term used in East Africa for chili peppers or spicy chili-based sauces.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes, use a milder chili pepper or remove the seeds before blending.

Can I bake the eggs instead of cooking on the stove?

Yes, transfer the sauce to an ovenproof dish, add the eggs, and bake at 375°F until set.

How do I know when the eggs are done?

The whites should be opaque and set, while the yolks remain soft and runny.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes?

Yes, canned tomatoes work well, but simmer longer to reduce excess liquid.

What type of bread pairs best?

Flatbread, pita, sourdough, or crusty baguette are all great choices for scooping.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, replace the eggs with tofu or chickpeas simmered in the sauce.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply increase the sauce and use a larger skillet to fit more eggs.

Is this similar to shakshuka?

Yes, it’s similar in concept but typically spicier and with a simpler tomato-chili base.

Conclusion

Pili pili eggs are a bold and comforting dish that highlights the irresistible combination of spicy chili, savory tomato, and runny yolks. Perfect with flatbread or toast, it’s a quick, flavorful meal that brings warmth and spice to your table any time of day.

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