Pericos - Scrambled Eggs with Tomatoes and Scallions
ColombianBreakfast

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Pericos is a beloved traditional breakfast staple found throughout households and restaurants. This colorful dish combines fluffy scrambled eggs with sautéed tomatoes and scallions, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The name Pericos, meaning parakeets, refers to the bright colors of the ingredients. Often served alongside rice, beans, and fresh bread, this protein-rich breakfast provides sustained energy throughout the morning. The simplicity of the dish belies its depth of flavor, as the natural sweetness of tomatoes melds with the savory eggs and aromatic scallions. Quick to prepare yet satisfying, Pericos represents the heart of home cooking, where fresh ingredients and straightforward techniques create memorable meals that nourish both body and soul.

Instructions

step by step
0/1 done
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to break down and release their juices. Season with salt and black pepper. In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined and slightly frothy. Pour the eggs into the skillet with the tomato mixture. Using a rubber spatula, gently stir the eggs, pushing them from the edges toward the center. Continue cooking and stirring gently for 3-4 minutes until the eggs are softly scrambled but still moist. Remove from heat just before the eggs are fully set, as they will continue cooking from residual heat. Stir in the chopped cilantro and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately while hot and fluffy.

Pericos - Scrambled Eggs with Tomatoes and Scallions

4.4 (98)

A vibrant traditional breakfast dish featuring fluffy scrambled eggs cooked with fresh tomatoes, scallions, and spices. Perfect for starting your day with authentic flavors and hearty nutrition.

easy
18 min
4 servings

Ingredients

0 of 8 checked

Main Ingredients

  • 8 pieces Eggs, beaten
  • 3 pieces Tomatoes, diced
  • 1 pieces Onions, finely diced
  • 3 tablespoons Cilantro, chopped

Cooking

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoons Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoons Black Pepper, freshly ground

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 pieces Bell Peppers, diced (optional)

Chef Tips

expert advice
For extra richness, add a tablespoon of butter along with the olive oil.
The key to perfect Pericos is not overcooking the eggs - they should remain soft and creamy.
You can add finely diced bell peppers for additional color and sweetness.
Some regions add a pinch of cumin for earthy depth.
For a heartier version, stir in cooked chorizo or shredded cheese.
Adjust the amount of tomatoes based on preference - more tomatoes create a juicier dish.

Variations & Substitutions

make it your own
Fresh scallions can be substituted with regular onions.

Serving & Pairings

what goes well
Serve with warm bread, rice, or traditional corn cakes for a complete breakfast.
This dish is excellent for meal prep and can be scaled up easily for larger groups.

Storage & Reheating

keeping it fresh
Storage

Store cooled Pericos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The eggs may release some liquid upon storage, which is normal. Do not freeze as eggs become rubbery when thawed.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Add a splash of milk or water if the eggs seem dry. Avoid overheating to prevent tough, rubbery texture.

Pericos - Scrambled Eggs with Tomatoes and Scallions | Cuisinao