Perico
Perico is a beloved Venezuelan breakfast dish featuring fluffy scrambled eggs cooked with sautéed tomatoes and onions. It's simple, flavorful, and often served alongside arepas.
🧂 Ingredients
- 6 Large Eggs
- 2 medium Ripe Tomatoes
- 1 small Yellow Onion
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste Black Pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the vegetables: Finely dice the onion and tomatoes. Aim for uniform pieces for even cooking.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Sauté the aromatics: Melt the butter in a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat (approx. 175°C / 350°F). Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to break down and release their juices.
⏱️ 8 minutes - 3
Prepare the eggs: While the vegetables are cooking, crack the eggs into a medium bowl. Add the salt and optional black pepper. Whisk vigorously with a fork or whisk until the yolks and whites are fully combined and slightly frothy. Do not over-whisk, just ensure no streaks of white remain.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 4
Scramble the eggs: Pour the beaten eggs evenly over the sautéed tomato and onion mixture in the skillet. Let the eggs set for about 15-20 seconds without stirring. Then, using a spatula, gently push the cooked egg from the edges towards the center, allowing the uncooked egg to flow underneath. Continue this process, folding and scrambling gently, until the eggs are just set and still slightly moist and creamy. Avoid overcooking, as this will result in dry, rubbery eggs.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Serve immediately: Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the Perico hot, traditionally alongside warm arepas, or with toast. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a softer scramble, remove the pan from the heat slightly before the eggs reach your desired doneness, as they will continue to cook from residual heat.
- ✓Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for a more even and quicker scramble.
- ✓Perico is a versatile dish; feel free to add other ingredients like finely chopped bell peppers or a pinch of chili flakes.
- ✓Serve with freshly made arepas for an authentic Venezuelan breakfast experience.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add finely diced bell peppers (any color) along with the onions for extra flavor and texture.
- Stir in shredded cheese (like white cheese or mozzarella) during the last minute of scrambling.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely minced jalapeño with the onions.