Scrambled Eggs and Tomatoes Recipe

Scrambled Eggs and Tomatoes Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

This quick and easy dish combines the rich flavors of scrambled eggs with the freshness of tomatoes, making it a perfect light meal or snack. Follow the steps below for a delightful breakfast or lunch.

Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 tomatoes, coarsely chopped
  • 1 teaspoons sugar
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 dash soy sauce

Directions

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, scramble the eggs until they are almost fully cooked. Remove the eggs from the skillet and place them on a plate.
  2. Return the skillet to the medium heat. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Stir in the sugar, salt, and soy sauce. Mix well.
  4. Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet and cook for another 1 minute, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are well combined.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories 94
Total Fat 5g (7% DV)
Saturated Fat 2g (8% DV)
Cholesterol 186mg (62% DV)
Sodium 104mg (5% DV)
Total Carbohydrate 5g (2% DV)
Dietary Fiber 2g (5% DV)
Total Sugars 4g
Protein 7g (15% DV)
Vitamin C 16mg (17% DV)
Calcium 39mg (3% DV)
Iron 1mg (7% DV)
Potassium 360mg (8% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Scrambled Eggs and Tomatoes

History of the Dish

Scrambled eggs and tomatoes is a beloved dish with roots in Chinese cuisine. It is often considered comfort food, known for its simplicity and versatility. The dish combines fresh tomatoes with scrambled eggs, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. While it is most commonly enjoyed in China, it has become popular in many other countries due to its easy preparation and delicious taste. The dish's origins are tied to traditional Chinese home cooking, where it was used as a quick and affordable meal that could be made with just a few basic ingredients, often using leftover tomatoes.

Regional Variations

While scrambled eggs with tomatoes is popular across China, there are regional variations in how it is prepared. In southern China, particularly in Guangdong province, the dish is often cooked with a touch of soy sauce and sometimes a sprinkle of sugar to bring out the sweetness of the tomatoes. In other parts of the country, especially in northern China, garlic, onions, or even chili peppers may be added to give the dish an extra layer of flavor. The use of ingredients like sesame oil or the addition of rice is also common in certain regions, making it a versatile dish that adapts to local preferences.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Scrambled eggs with tomatoes stands apart from other egg-based dishes in its unique combination of savory and sweet flavors. The addition of sugar to the tomatoes is unusual in many Western scrambled egg recipes but gives this dish its signature taste. Unlike classic Western scrambled eggs, which are often served on their own or with bacon or toast, the Chinese version incorporates fresh tomatoes, creating a juicy, flavorful contrast. Other egg dishes, like omelettes or frittatas, typically use more complex fillings such as cheese, meat, or vegetables, whereas scrambled eggs with tomatoes is focused on simplicity and the balance between eggs and tomatoes.

Where Is It Typically Served?

Scrambled eggs with tomatoes is a common breakfast or light lunch dish in many Chinese households. It is frequently enjoyed as a comfort food, especially during the summer when tomatoes are in season. The dish is also commonly served with steamed rice, making it a filling meal. Outside of China, it can be found in Chinese restaurants around the world, often as part of a larger meal or as a standalone dish. In some regions, like in parts of Southeast Asia, variations of the dish are served with noodles or as a side with other main courses.

Interesting Facts

One interesting aspect of scrambled eggs and tomatoes is how it has been adapted in various countries. In China, it is often served with rice, making it a satisfying and complete meal. In the United States and other Western countries, some people add additional spices or seasonings such as smoked paprika or fresh herbs to enhance the flavor. Another fun fact is that some variations of the dish use ketchup as a shortcut for tomatoes, making the preparation even faster. Despite the differences in preparation and seasoning, the essence of the dish remains the same: eggs and tomatoes combined for a comforting, tasty meal.

Conclusion

Scrambled eggs with tomatoes is a dish that brings together the best of simplicity and flavor. It is a quick, nutritious meal that can be enjoyed in many different ways depending on your region or taste preferences. Whether served as a breakfast, lunch, or light dinner, this dish continues to be a favorite across cultures and households, proving that even the simplest of ingredients can create something delicious.

FAQ about Scrambled Eggs and Tomatoes Recipe

Leftover scrambled eggs with tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent overcooking.

This dish is best enjoyed freshly made. However, you can prepare the tomatoes and scramble the eggs separately in advance. Store each component in an airtight container and combine them when you're ready to serve.

It is not recommended to freeze scrambled eggs with tomatoes, as the texture of the eggs may change when thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked tomatoes separately and use them in other dishes.

Scrambled eggs with tomatoes are great on their own, but they pair well with steamed rice, toast, or roasted potatoes for a more substantial meal. You can also add sautéed spinach or avocado for extra flavor.

Yes, the sweetness of this dish can be adjusted by modifying the amount of sugar you use. If you prefer a less sweet dish, you can reduce the sugar to 1 teaspoon or omit it entirely.

For this recipe, any ripe, juicy tomatoes will work well. Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes are commonly used, but feel free to use your preferred variety. The key is to choose tomatoes that are sweet and flavorful.

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach, or even meats like bacon or sausage for extra flavor. Fresh herbs such as cilantro or green onions also work well as garnishes.

Yes, you can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a sweeter flavor. If you're avoiding soy altogether, these alternatives can provide a similar salty, umami flavor.

For fluffier eggs, whisk them well before cooking and add a splash of milk, cream, or water. Cooking over low heat and stirring gently also helps create a tender, fluffy texture.

Yes, you can make this dish vegan by substituting the eggs with tofu or a vegan egg alternative. Use plant-based oil for cooking and adjust seasonings to taste.

Comments

Adam Scott

03/24/2025 09:54:04 AM

I found these to be quite tasty. I reduced the amount of sugar by half and felt that they could benefit from a bit more soy sauce. Additionally, I added a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper for extra flavor.

Julie Lee

01/31/2024 08:48:20 PM

I enjoyed this dish served over cubed potatoes sautéed in clarified butter.

Anthony Lewis

10/15/2022 09:51:50 PM

The eggs were delicious, and the dish overall was fantastic. One suggestion for improvement would be to use only a few tablespoons of soy sauce. Its strong flavor can easily overpower the dish, especially when the recipe calls for just a dash, as some may mistakenly add more than necessary.

Janet Perez

05/13/2024 06:00:08 AM

I absolutely adored your story and the eggs were simply scrumptious. I only added a teaspoon of sugar and it worked perfectly. I can envision how fabulous this would be on rice and I can't wait to try it next time. So simple to prepare. 🥰🍳🍴

Daniel Harris

06/23/2024 09:59:36 AM

Despite reducing the sugar in this recipe, it was still too sweet for our family's taste. As a result, it was advised that I refrain from making it again.

Amanda Gomez

08/22/2022 02:54:34 AM

I mixed in some freshly chopped spinach. It was absolutely amazing!!! Such a wonderful way to enjoy eggs. I'm obsessed with it!!