Spanish Beans and Eggs
This rustic Spanish-inspired dish features white beans simmered with garlic, onions, tomatoes, peppers, and smoked paprika, then topped with gently baked eggs. It’s a one-pan, wholesome, and satisfying meal, perfect with crusty bread for dipping.
Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes
Servings:4
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 can (14 oz / 400g) chopped tomatoes (or 3 fresh ripe tomatoes, diced)
1 can (14 oz / 400g) cannellini beans (or butter beans), drained & rinsed
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp ground cumin
¼ tsp chili flakes
Salt & black pepper, to taste
4 large eggs
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Optional add-ins:
A handful of spinach or kale
Chorizo or turkey sausage
Olives for a Mediterranean punch
Instructions
1. Build the Base
Heat olive oil in a large skillet (oven-safe if baking eggs).
Saute onion and pepper for 5 minutes until softened.
Add garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili flakes; cook 1 min until fragrant.
2. Add Tomatoes & Beans
Stir in chopped tomatoes, simmer for 8–10 minutes until thickened.
Add beans, season with salt & pepper. Simmer 5 minutes so flavors meld.
3. Add the Eggs
Option A (stovetop): Make small wells in the bean mixture, crack eggs in, cover with a lid, and cook on low until eggs are just set (6–8 mins).
Option B (oven-baked): Make wells, crack in eggs, then transfer skillet to a 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake 8–10 minutes until whites are set but yolks still runny.
4. Serve
Garnish with parsley or cilantro.
Serve hot with crusty bread, pita, or warm tortillas for dipping.
Notes & Tips
For creaminess: Stir in 1 tbsp tahini or Greek yogurt before adding eggs.
For depth: Add a splash of dry sherry or white wine with the tomatoes.
Meal prep: Bean base can be made in advance; just reheat and add fresh eggs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other beans?
Yes – chickpeas, kidney beans, or black beans all work well.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
Skip the eggs and top with sautéed mushrooms, avocado slices, or roasted veggies.
Q: Is this like shakshuka?
Similar, but Spanish beans and eggs use smoked paprika and beans, giving it a heartier, rustic Mediterranean twist.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~320 kcal
Protein: 16g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 8g