Description
Shakshuka is a beloved Middle Eastern and North African dish featuring eggs perfectly poached in a rich, spiced tomato and bell pepper sauce. This comforting one-pan meal combines garlic, onions, and warm spices like cumin and smoked paprika to create a vibrant, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 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
Eggs & Garnish
- 6 large eggs
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing vegetables.
- Sauté Onion and Bell Pepper: Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking for 5–6 minutes until softened and aromatic.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to release its fragrant oils.
- Combine Tomato Base and Spices: Mix in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all flavors.
- Simmer Sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently for 10–15 minutes until it thickens slightly and flavors meld together.
- Add Eggs: Make six small wells in the sauce and carefully crack an egg into each well, spacing them evenly.
- Cook Eggs: Cover the skillet and cook for 5–8 minutes, or until the egg whites are fully set and yolks reach your preferred level of doneness.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and optionally fresh cilantro just before serving to add brightness and flavor.
Notes
- Serve shakshuka with crusty bread or warm pita to scoop up the sauce and eggs.
- Add leafy greens like spinach or kale to the sauce for extra nutrition and texture.
- For meal prep, store the tomato sauce separately and add fresh eggs when reheating to maintain egg texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
