There’s something magical about the combination of eggs poached in a rich, spiced tomato sauce. Shakshuka, a dish with roots in North African and Middle Eastern cuisine, has become a global favorite for good reason. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for any meal of the day. Today, I’m sharing a shakshuka recipe that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare.
The secret to great shakshuka lies in its balance of flavors – the sweetness of tomatoes, the heat of spices, and the creaminess of perfectly poached eggs. Whether you’re cooking for a family brunch or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite. Plus, it’s made in one pan, so cleanup is a breeze!
What I love most about shakshuka is its versatility. You can enjoy it with crusty bread for breakfast, or pair it with a fresh salad for dinner. The possibilities are endless, and each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors. Let’s get cooking!
Shakshuka: A Burst of Flavor in Every Bite
Shakshuka brings together the best of simple ingredients to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions are simmered with aromatic spices, then topped with eggs and baked until perfectly set. This one-pan wonder is both comforting and nutritious.
Why should you try this recipe? Because it’s a delicious way to elevate your everyday meals. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and delivers an impressive presentation that’s sure to wow your family and friends. Plus, it’s customizable – add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
A Family Favorite
One weekend morning, I decided to surprise my family with a hearty shakshuka breakfast. The rich aroma of simmering tomatoes and spices filled the kitchen, drawing everyone to the table. My husband and kids were intrigued by the colorful dish, and after one bite, they were hooked.
Since then, shakshuka has become a beloved tradition in our home. It’s our go-to for lazy Sunday brunches and cozy dinners. The best part? It’s a dish that brings us together, as we scoop up every last bit with crusty bread and share stories over the meal.
Why This Shakshuka?
The Perfect Harmony of Flavor and Simplicity
- Unique: A traditional dish with a modern twist.
- Ingredients: Fresh, wholesome ingredients create a delicious and nutritious meal.
- Flavors: Bold and aromatic, with a perfect balance of spices and textures.
Tips
- Eggs: To ensure perfectly poached eggs, cover the skillet with a lid while they cook.
- Tomato Base: For a richer flavor, use fire-roasted tomatoes or add a tablespoon of tomato paste.
- Spices: Adjust the spice level to your preference. Add more red pepper flakes for a spicier shakshuka.
Substitutions and Variations
- Vegetables: Add spinach, zucchini, or eggplant for extra nutrients and variety.
- Cheese: Use goat cheese or ricotta instead of feta for a different flavor profile.
- Protein: Add cooked chickpeas or slices of sausage for a heartier dish.
Make a Healthier Version
- Lower Fat: Use cooking spray instead of olive oil to sauté the vegetables.
- Less Salt: Reduce the amount of added salt and use low-sodium canned tomatoes.
- More Veggies: Increase the vegetable content and reduce the number of eggs for a lighter version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make shakshuka ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the tomato base ahead of time and reheat it. Add the eggs just before serving.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover shakshuka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Use about 4-5 large ripe tomatoes, diced, and simmer until they break down and form a sauce.
Q: How can I make shakshuka vegan?
A: Replace the eggs with firm tofu or chickpeas. Crumble the tofu into the tomato mixture and cook until heated through.
Q: What can I serve with shakshuka?
A: Shakshuka is traditionally served with crusty bread, but you can also pair it with pita, rice, or a fresh salad.
Q: Can I freeze shakshuka?
A: It’s best to freeze the tomato base without the eggs. Thaw and reheat the base, then add fresh eggs before serving.
Enjoy making and savoring this Irresistible Shakshuka, and feel free to experiment with your own variations!
Print
Delicious shakshuka
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
There’s something magical about the combination of eggs poached in a rich, spiced tomato sauce. Shakshuka, a dish with roots in North African and Middle Eastern cuisine, has become a global favorite for good reason.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons. Substitute: Any vegetable oil.
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped. Substitute: Shallots or leeks.
- Bell Pepper: 1 red, chopped. Substitute: Green or yellow bell peppers.
Spices:
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Substitute: Garlic powder.
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon.
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon. Substitute: Smoked paprika for a richer flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon. Optional: For heat.
Tomatoes:
- Canned Tomatoes: 1 can (14 oz), or 4 ripe vine tomatoes, chopped. Substitute: Crushed tomatoes.
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons. Substitute: Tomato sauce.
Eggs:
- Eggs: 4 large, cracked into individual bowls.
Optional Add-Ons:
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled on top.
- Parsley or Cilantro: Chopped, for garnish.
Instructions
1. Heat Olive Oil:
Pour 3 tablespoons of olive oil into a large cast iron skillet. Warm it over medium heat.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes until they soften.
3. Add Garlic and Spices:
Add minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add Tomatoes:
Pour in a can of crushed tomatoes with their juice. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer:
Reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to thicken the sauce.
6. Make Wells:
Using a spoon, make small wells in the sauce. Crack eggs into each well, being careful not to break the yolks.
7. Cook Eggs:
Cover the skillet again. Cook for about 5-8 minutes, or until the eggs are done to your liking.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top. Serve with crusty bread or pita for dipping. Enjoy your delicious shakshuka!
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
