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Eggs in Purgatory with Artichoke Hearts, Potatoes and Capers

This Mediterranean-inspired vegetarian dish offers a sophisticated twist on the classic Italian eggs in purgatory. The spicy tomato base is elevated with earthy artichoke hearts, salty capers, and tender cubes of potato, creating a hearty meal that works beautifully for brunch or a light supper. By poaching the eggs directly in the sauce within the oven, you achieve perfectly set whites and golden, runny yolks that are ideal for mopping up with crusty bread.

Rich in fibre and protein, this one-pan wonder is as nutritious as it is flavourful. The sauce can even be prepared several hours in advance, making it a stress-free option for hosting friends or family. Serve it piping hot from the oven with a generous dusting of Parmesan cheese for a satisfying, homemade meal that brings a touch of warmth to any table.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Eggs in Purgatory with Artichoke Hearts, Potatoes and Capers

  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 350ml chopped onion

  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme

  • 1/2 teaspoons dried crushed red pepper

  • Coarse kosher salt

  • 1 8- to 275g package frozen artichoke hearts, thawed, drained

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 800g can diced tomatoes in juice (preferably fire-roasted)

  • 230g red-skinned or white-skinned potatoes, peeled, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

  • 2 tablespoons drained capers

  • 8 large eggs

  • 40g freshly grated Parmesan cheese

How to make Eggs in Purgatory with Artichoke Hearts, Potatoes and Capers

Heat olive oil in heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, chopped thyme, and crushed red pepper; sprinkle lightly with coarse kosher salt and sauté until onion is tender and golden brown, about 10 minutes. Add artichokes and minced garlic; stir 1 minute. Stir in diced tomatoes with juice and bring to boil. Reduce heat; cover skillet and simmer 15 minutes to allow flavours to blend.

Meanwhile, cook potatoes in small saucepan of boiling salted water just until tender, about 8 minutes. Drain. Add potatoes and capers to tomato-artichoke sauce; cover and simmer 5 minutes. Season to taste with coarse salt and pepper. DO AHEAD: Tomato-artichoke sauce can be made up to 6 hours ahead. Cool slightly, then cover and refrigerate. Rewarm sauce before continuing.

Preheat oven to 191°C. Pour tomato-artichoke sauce into 13 x 9 x 2-inch glass baking dish. Using back of spoon, make 8 evenly spaced indentations in sauce for holding eggs. Crack 1 egg into each indentation in sauce (some of eggs may run together slightly in spots). Bake until egg whites and yolks are softly set, 12 to 16 minutes. Carefully remove baking dish from oven; sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over and serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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