The Pili Pili Eggs recipe from Kiano Moji’s AfriCali cookbook is a simple, flavorful dish inspired by African cuisine. This one-pan breakfast offers a spicy, savory combination that’s perfect for serving multiple people at once. The dish gets its name from the “pili pili” sauce, a fiery African chili sauce, which pairs beautifully with eggs, garlic, hot chili peppers, and tomatoes. It’s a perfect option for breakfast or brunch, offering versatility to suit your spice tolerance, and can be topped with feta, goat cheese, or sour cream for a creamier finish.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 3 garlic cloves or ¼ small onion

• 1 fresh medium hot chili pepper (e.g., serrano or Fresno)

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

• Chili flakes (for garnish)

• Warm flatbread or toast (for serving)

• 2 to 4 eggs

• 2 medium tomatoes, cut into round slices

• Salt (to taste)

Directions

1. Cut the tomatoes into round slices. Thinly slice the garlic or finely dice the onion, depending on your choice. Slice the chili pepper thinly (remove seeds for a milder flavor).

2. Heat a wide nonstick pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the olive oil. Then, add the garlic (or onion) and chili pepper. Cook for about 1 minute for garlic or 2–3 minutes for onion until fragrant and softened.

3. Add the tomatoes and season with salt. Stir and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the tomatoes break down.

4. Crack the eggs around the pan on top of the tomato mixture. Cover the pan and cook the eggs in the sauce until the yolks reach your preferred doneness (about 5 minutes).

5. While the eggs cook, chop the cilantro leaves. Once the eggs are ready, uncover the pan and garnish with cilantro and chili flakes.

6. Serve the eggs straight from the pan with flatbread or toast for scooping.

Nutrients

• Calories: 288

• Fat: 23g

• Carbs: 6g

• Protein: 14g

• Sugars: 4g

A Taste of African Flavor

The name “Pili Pili” is derived from the Swahili word for chili pepper, which is widely used in many African cuisines. The Pili Pili sauce is a popular condiment in many parts of East and Central Africa, often used to add heat and depth to various dishes. The sauce typically consists of fresh chili peppers, garlic, and vinegar, creating a spicy and tangy flavor profile. When paired with eggs, the sauce enhances the richness of the yolk and brings a delightful level of heat to each bite.

In the Pili Pili Eggs recipe, this sauce acts as the base for the dish, infusing the eggs with its unique flavors. This dish is a perfect example of how African culinary traditions blend simple ingredients to create something extraordinary. The combination of tomatoes, chili, garlic, and eggs is not only easy to prepare but also showcases the importance of fresh, bold ingredients in African cooking.

The One-Pan Wonder

One of the main reasons Pili Pili Eggs has become a favorite is its simplicity. With minimal ingredients and just one pan, the recipe is ideal for those who want a quick yet flavorful meal. The recipe calls for basic ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, such as garlic, tomatoes, chili peppers, and eggs. The use of extra-virgin olive oil adds a smooth richness to the dish, ensuring that each ingredient blends beautifully while cooking.

The cooking process is straightforward: sautéing garlic (or onion) and chili peppers, adding tomatoes, and then cracking eggs over the tomato mixture. The eggs cook gently in the flavorful sauce, absorbing the spices and seasonings as they cook. This method ensures that the eggs are tender, with the yolks still rich and soft, offering a creamy texture that contrasts perfectly with the heat of the chili.

Flexibility for All Tastes

One of the standout features of Pili Pili Eggs is its flexibility. The recipe can be easily adjusted to suit different tastes and spice levels. If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the amount of chili or remove the seeds from the peppers, which will help control the heat. On the other hand, if you enjoy a fiery breakfast, you can add more chili peppers or use a hotter variety, such as bird’s eye chilies, to increase the spiciness of the dish.

Moreover, the addition of toppings like feta, goat cheese, or sour cream can further enhance the dish’s flavor. The creamy cheese adds a luxurious texture that complements the heat of the chili, making the dish even more indulgent. The versatility of Pili Pili Eggs makes it an excellent choice for various occasions, whether you’re serving it for a casual weekend brunch or a more formal gathering.

Nutritional Benefits of Pili Pili Eggs

While Pili Pili Eggs are undeniably flavorful, they also pack a nutritional punch. With just 288 calories per serving, this dish is relatively low in calories, making it a good option for those who want to enjoy a satisfying breakfast without overindulging. The eggs provide a rich source of protein, offering 14 grams of protein per serving, which helps keep you feeling full and energized throughout the morning.

The inclusion of healthy fats from extra-virgin olive oil also contributes to the dish’s nutritional profile. Olive oil is known for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help improve cholesterol levels and support overall cardiovascular health. Additionally, the dish contains only 6 grams of carbohydrates, making it a good choice for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.

The tomatoes in the dish provide a good source of vitamins and antioxidants, including vitamin C, which supports immune function, and lycopene, which is known for its potential cancer-fighting properties. Cilantro, often used as a garnish, adds a fresh herbal note while offering its own array of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K and potassium.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Pili Pili Eggs are best served hot, straight from the pan, with a side of warm flatbread or toast. The bread is perfect for scooping up the rich, flavorful tomato sauce and yolk, making each bite a satisfying experience. Flatbreads, such as pita or naan, can be a great choice, offering a soft and chewy texture that complements the spiciness of the dish. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can pair the eggs with a side of roasted vegetables or avocado for a balanced meal.

For those who prefer a more substantial breakfast, Pili Pili Eggs can be served alongside a fresh salad or a portion of grilled meat, such as chicken or lamb, to create a more filling meal. The spiciness of the dish pairs well with a cool, refreshing drink like yogurt-based smoothies or fresh fruit juices, helping to balance the heat while providing additional nutrients.

Cultural Significance of Pili Pili Sauce

The use of Pili Pili sauce in this recipe not only enhances the flavor of the dish but also highlights its cultural significance in African cuisine. Chili peppers are widely used across the African continent, and Pili Pili sauce is a staple in many African kitchens. The sauce is used to add heat and flavor to everything from meats and stews to vegetables and grains. In countries like Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, Pili Pili sauce is often served alongside grilled meats or used to spice up rice dishes.

Chili peppers, including those used in Pili Pili sauce, are native to the Americas but have become an integral part of African cooking since being introduced during the colonial period. Today, the pepper is used in a variety of ways, from fresh to dried, and its bold flavor is loved by many across the continent. The inclusion of Pili Pili sauce in this recipe is a nod to Africa’s rich culinary heritage, showcasing the region’s love for bold, spicy flavors that bring warmth and excitement to any meal.

Conclusion

Pili Pili Eggs are a wonderful addition to any breakfast or brunch menu, offering a unique and flavorful twist on traditional egg dishes. With its combination of spicy Pili Pili sauce, eggs, garlic, chili peppers, and tomatoes, this dish brings a delightful explosion of flavors that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you enjoy it as a mild dish or ramp up the heat with extra chili, Pili Pili Eggs are versatile enough to cater to various preferences. The simplicity of the recipe, combined with the nutritional benefits and cultural significance, makes this dish a must-try for anyone looking to explore the flavors of African cuisine. Serve it with your favorite bread, a dollop of cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for the perfect start to your day.