Shakshuka is a vibrant and flavorful dish that hails from North Africa and the Middle East. It consists of eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce, often enriched with peppers, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices. This dish is celebrated for its bold flavors and hearty texture, making it an excellent choice for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Shakshuka is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delightful way to enjoy a savory and satisfying meal.
This recipe for Shakshuka provides a perfect balance of rich tomato sauce and perfectly poached eggs, topped with fresh herbs and spices. The combination of flavors and textures creates a comforting and indulgent dish that is both nutritious and delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this Shakshuka recipe will guide you through each step to achieve a perfect, flavorful result.
Ingredients for Delicious and Easy Shakshuka
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Poached Eggs:
- 4 large eggs
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crumbled feta cheese (optional, for garnish)
For Serving:
- Crusty bread or pita (for dipping and scooping)
- Pickled vegetables or olives (optional, for added flavor)
How to Make Delicious and Easy Shakshuka
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large, deep skillet or a cast-iron pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to toast slightly and release their aroma.
- Incorporate Tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and sugar (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Poach the Eggs
- Create Wells: Using a spoon, make small wells in the simmering sauce, spacing them evenly. These wells will hold the eggs as they cook.
- Add the Eggs: Crack each egg into a small bowl or cup, and gently slide it into one of the wells in the sauce. Repeat with the remaining eggs.
- Cook the Eggs: Cover the skillet with a lid and cook the eggs for 5-7 minutes, or until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny. If you prefer firmer yolks, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley over the top, and add crumbled feta cheese if desired.
- Serve: Serve the Shakshuka directly from the skillet with crusty bread or pita for dipping and scooping. Pickled vegetables or olives can also be served on the side for added flavor and texture.
About the Main Ingredients
Olive Oil
Olive oil is used to sauté the vegetables and spices, adding a rich, fruity flavor to the dish. It also helps in the overall cooking process by providing a medium for the flavors to blend.
Onion and Bell Pepper
Onions and bell peppers form the base of the Shakshuka sauce, providing sweetness and depth of flavor. They are sautéed until softened, which helps to develop the flavors of the dish.
Garlic
Garlic adds a pungent, savory flavor to the sauce. It is sautéed along with the onions and bell peppers to infuse the dish with its distinctive aroma.
Spices (Cumin, Paprika, Coriander, Turmeric, Chili Powder)
The combination of spices used in Shakshuka creates a complex and aromatic flavor profile. Ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, turmeric, and chili powder work together to give the sauce its characteristic warmth and depth.
Diced Tomatoes and Tomato Paste
Diced tomatoes and tomato paste form the foundation of the Shakshuka sauce. The tomatoes provide acidity and sweetness, while the tomato paste adds richness and thickness to the sauce.
Eggs
Eggs are the star of the Shakshuka dish, poached directly in the sauce. They add protein and richness, and their creamy yolks complement the spicy tomato sauce beautifully.
Fresh Cilantro or Parsley
Fresh cilantro or parsley is used as a garnish, adding a burst of freshness and color to the finished dish. It also helps to balance the richness of the sauce and eggs.
Feta Cheese (Optional)
Crumbled feta cheese can be sprinkled on top of the Shakshuka for an extra layer of tangy flavor. It pairs well with the spices and adds a creamy texture.
This Shakshuka recipe offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic North African and Middle Eastern dish. With its rich, spicy tomato sauce and perfectly poached eggs, it’s a flavorful and satisfying meal that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. The combination of aromatic spices and fresh ingredients creates a comforting and indulgent dish that will delight your taste buds. Follow this recipe to make your own Shakshuka, and enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal that’s sure to impress.
