Description
Shakshuka is a classic Middle Eastern and North African dish featuring perfectly poached eggs simmered in a rich tomato and bell pepper sauce infused with garlic, onions, and warm spices. It’s a comforting one-pan breakfast that is flavorful, hearty, and easy to prepare, ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Sauce
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
Spices
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 large eggs
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and fragrant.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until aromatic without browning.
- Add tomato ingredients and spices: Mix in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine well.
- Simmer sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently for 10–15 minutes so it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
- Add eggs: Create six small wells in the thickened sauce and carefully crack one egg into each well.
- Cook eggs: Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 5–8 minutes, depending on how runny or firm you prefer the yolks. The egg whites should be fully set when done.
- Finish and garnish: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top along with chopped fresh parsley and optional fresh cilantro before serving immediately.
Notes
- Serve shakshuka with crusty bread or warm pita for dipping and soaking up the sauce.
- For added nutrition and flavor, consider stirring in some fresh spinach or kale while simmering the tomato sauce.
- If making ahead, store the tomato sauce and eggs separately; add fresh eggs when reheating to avoid overcooked eggs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
