This is the eggs-as-meat-style main course of hard-cooked eggs simmered in tomato sauce. Though the main recipe here is Mediterranean, and you often see this preparation in southern Italy (it’s good over pasta), it is equally well known in India, where it is served with chapatti or other bread, and where the spicing is more assertive and the results even more surprising.
STEP 1 :
Put oil in a 10- or 12-inch skillet and turn heat to medium. A minute or 2 later, add onions, garlic, chilies if you're using them and herb. Cook, stirring, for a minute or 2, then cover pan and turn heat to medium-low. Cook until onions are very soft but not brown, 10 to 15 minutes.
STEP 2 :
Meanwhile, put eggs in cold water to cover. Turn heat to medium-high, bring to a boil, then turn off heat and cover; set a timer for 9 minutes.
STEP 3 :
When onions are done, uncover and turn heat to medium-high. Add tomatoes, a pinch of salt and some pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until mixture bubbles. Cook for about 5 more minutes.
THE LAST STEP :
When eggs are done, put them in a bowl of ice water, then place under cold running water until they feel cool, then peel. When tomato sauce is ready, add eggs to it; cook an additional 5 minutes or so. Taste and adjust seasoning, garnish and serve hot.
