Eggs in the Hole

Directions

1. 1
   Using a 1 1/2-inch round cutter, cut a hole out of the center of the bread.
2. 2
   Reserve the cut-out part.
3. 3
   Melt 1 teaspoon of the butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
4. 4
   Place the slice of bread in the pan.
5. 5
   Add the remaining 1/4 teaspoon butter to the hole and let it melt.
6. 6
   Crack the egg directly into the middle of the hole.
7. 7
   Let the egg and the bread cook for about 2 minutes.
8. 8
   The object is to get the bread brown and the egg cooked just right at the same time.
9. 9
   When both the bread and the egg are cooked, use a sturdy spatula to flip over the bread.
10. 10
    Cook for another 2 minutes to brown that side of the bread.
11. 11
    Use a spatula to transfer it from the pan to a plate.
12. 12
    Use a nice crusty sourdough bread cut 1/2 to 3/4-inch thick.
13. 13
    Rub the bread with garlic before punching out the hole, and griddle both sides of the bread before adding 3 tablespoons Roasted Tomato Sauce (page 289) to the hole.
14. 14
    It will spread around the pan.
15. 15
    Crack the egg into the hole.
16. 16
    Spoon another tablespoon of sauce on top of the bread and top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
17. 17
    Bake in a preheated 375F oven for 4 or 5 minutes, until the egg is done to your liking.