Hungover? Try This Cheesy Egg Flatbread Recipe ASAP!

Mornings can be difficult and few things wake up the soul like a hearty brunch! So, whether you're recovering from a night out or simply craving some comfort, this flatbread loaded with cheese, eggs, and pesto is IT. It's a satisfying combination that promises to kickstart your day with indulgent flavours and a touch of homemade goodness. Read on to learn more about flatbreads, pesto and how to make this delicious dish!

Flatbreads Make the World Go Round

Flatbreads are just breads that are flat. But, they have a history that spans across countries and cultures, which is a lot more interesting than my silly definition of them. 

Found in ancient civilizations from Egypt and India to the Middle East and Central Asia, flatbreads have hundreds of variations. For instance, Afghanistan and India have naan and roti/chapati, Central and South America are known for tortillas, Italy has the focaccia, and pita from the Middle East, are just a few examples.

While flatbreads can all be used interchangeably in recipes, they each bring their own unique textures and flavours to the table.

All this variety might make it seem that flatbreads have no definition. Some even ask whether they’re basically just a pizza base. Interestingly, there are distinct differences between the two! The primary distinction lies in the leavening agent used: many flatbreads are unleavened, while pizza dough typically has yeast. This yeast causes the dough to rise, resulting in a fluffier, thicker crust aka NOT a flatbread. 

Flatbreads are incredibly versatile and can be topped with a wide range of ingredients. From onion and garlic flatbreads to matzo toast and even grilled Caesar salad flatbreads, the possibilities are endless. Today, however, we're keeping it simple and uncomplicated with a flatbread loaded with cheese, pesto, and egg! 

Whatever Grows Together, Goes Together

The sauce we’re going to use today is Italy’s sweetheart, pesto! First made in Genoa, pesto is a simple yet exquisite blend of garlic, basil, quality nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. 

Etymologically, pesto traces its roots to the Italian practice of "pestare," meaning to “pound” or “beat,” with basil as its star ingredient.

A fun fact about pesto is that its main ingredients garlic, basil, parmesan cheese and olives all flourish together. Either they grow in the same seasons or the same regions. This creates a natural synergy in flavour because “whatever grows together, goes together”! 

Authentic Italian Pesto

Chilzo's Pesto sauce follows the traditional recipe and preparation methods. It is made with the finest ingredients – Genovese basil, authentic Italian Parmesan cheese, extra virgin olive oil, high-quality walnuts, and plenty of garlic. What sets it apart? No cheap cashews, no artificial colours, additives, or thickeners—just pure, natural ingredients blended to create the most delicious pesto you've ever had. True to its Italian heritage, this pesto is everything you need for an authentic Italian meal experience. Don't just take my word for it—try it yourself!

Onto The Recipe!  

Use these ingredients to make a Cheesy Egg and Pesto Flatbread! 

- 1 large flatbread or naan 

- 2-3 tablespoons Chilzo's Pesto 

- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or any cheese you like)

- 2 large eggs

- Salt and pepper, to taste

- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)

- Red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)

Follow these simple steps to make yourself some Cheesy Egg and Pesto Flatbread! 

1. We will start by preparing the flatbread. Heat up a large non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add just a touch of butter or oil, and lay down the flatbread.
2. Now, spread Chilzo’s fresh pesto evenly over one side of the flatbread. 
3. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the pesto-covered side of the flatbread. Be sure to make it nice and cheesy!
4. Carefully crack one egg onto the flatbread, aiming to keep it nicely centred. This is where the magic begins!
5. Lightly season the egg with salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to season the flatbread however you like, though. It's your kitchen, after all! 
6. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the flatbread cook on medium-low heat for about 5-7 minutes. We want those egg whites to set perfectly and the cheese to melt. Keep an eye on it to ensure it cooks just right.
7. If you prefer a more well-cooked egg, gently flip the flatbread using a spatula and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the egg reaches your desired doneness. Cooking with care makes all the difference!
8. Now, it's time to add a finishing touch! Remove the flatbread from the skillet and sprinkle thinly sliced fresh basil leaves and red pepper flakes on top, if you like a bit of heat.
9. Lastly, slice the cheesy flatbread with egg and pesto into portions and serve immediately while it's wonderfully warm.

Notes:

- Make sure to use a skillet or frying pan with a lid to help cook the egg thoroughly.

- Adjust the cooking time based on your stove's heat level to ensure the egg cooks evenly without burning the flatbread.

- You can experiment with different cheeses or additional toppings like sliced tomatoes or cooked bacon for added flavour.