As the seasons shift and the crisp air of autumn replaces the balmy breezes of summer, our breakfast cravings often take a turn towards the warm and comforting. Gone are the days of light fruit salads and smoothies, and in come the heartier, more satisfying morning meals. One such dish that has become a newfound favourite for many is a simple yet delightful twist on fried eggs, which not only warms the belly but also solves a common kitchen conundrum: what to do with all that leftover basil?

We've all been there, haven't we? You buy a bunch of basil for a recipe that calls for a mere sprinkle, and you're left with a heap of vibrant green leaves. It's a shame to let such a fragrant herb go to waste, and that's where this ingenious idea comes into play: Caprese fried eggs.


The concept is a playful nod to the classic Caprese salad, which traditionally combines the fresh flavours of raw tomatoes, creamy mozzarella di bufala, and, of course, basil. But instead of enjoying these ingredients cold, we're giving them a warm twist that's perfect for those chilly mornings.


Here's how you can recreate this culinary delight in your own kitchen:


Ingredients:
- A generous handful of fresh basil leaves (about a cup, loosely packed)
- 1/2 tablespoon of cooking oil, plus a drizzle of more
- Shredded low-moisture mozzarella (or parmesan if you prefer)
- Ripe tomato, cut into chunks
- 2 eggs
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: crusty buttered toast to serve

Instructions:
1. Begin by heating a half-tablespoon of oil in a frying pan over medium-low heat. Add your basil leaves and let them wilt for about 30 seconds. You'll be amazed at how quickly they reduce in size.

2. Next, sprinkle in your shredded mozzarella. If you're in a pinch, string cheese can work in a pinch, but try to stick to drier cheeses that will crisp up nicely. The goal here is to create a delicious frico crust that will add texture to your dish.


3. As the cheese begins to melt and sizzle, scatter your tomato chunks into the pan. Then, carefully crack two eggs over the top.

4. Drizzle a bit more oil around the edges of the pan and season the eggs with a heavy pinch of salt. If you're feeling adventurous, you can flip the eggs for a more even cook, but this is entirely up to your preference.

5. Cook the eggs to your desired level of doneness, and then plate up this vibrant dish. The tomatoes will have burst, releasing their sweet and acidic juices, while the basil imparts a bright, anise-like flavour that elevates the entire meal.


6. For the perfect bite, try to get a forkful that includes the stretchy, slightly crisp cheese, the wilted basil, and the rich egg. The basil not only adds a punch of flavour but also maintains a bit of texture, giving the dish a delightful contrast.

7. If you like, serve with a slice of crusty buttered toast to mop up all the delicious flavours and carry you through the last vestiges of summer.

This dish may not win any beauty contests, especially if an egg yolk breaks here or there, but the taste is what truly matters. It's a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most unexpected combinations can lead to the most delightful results.


So, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, next time you find yourself with an abundance of basil and a craving for a warm, satisfying breakfast, give these Caprese fried eggs a try. It's a simple yet satisfying way to transform your morning routine and make the most of your leftover herbs.

And remember, cooking is all about improvisation and making do with what you have. Don't have low-moisture mozzarella? Parmesan or another dry cheese could be a fantastic substitute. The key is to experiment and find what works for you.
We'd love to hear about your experiences with this recipe or any other creative ways you've used up leftover herbs. Share your stories and tips in the comments below, and let's inspire each other with our culinary adventures!