Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a Middle Eastern and North African dish made of poached eggs in a rich, spiced tomato sauce with peppers, onions, and garlic. It's often served with warm bread, making it a flavorful and hearty breakfast or brunch option.

Mar 12, 2025 - 13:18
6
Shakshuka
Prep Time 15 min
Cook Time 25 min
Serving 4
Difficulty Easy

Made by poaching eggs in a spiced tomato sauce with peppers, onions, garlic, and other spices including cumin, paprika, and chile, shakshuka is a tasty dish with Middle Eastern and North African origins. Usually, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and garlic are combined to make the sauce, which is then cooked until it becomes flavorful and rich. It's frequently served with pita or warm, crusty bread, which makes it ideal for dipping. Shakshuka, which combines savory, tangy, and spicy flavors, is suitable for breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner.

Ingredients

  • 2-4 eggs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
  • 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or 4-5 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richness)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Crusty bread or pita (for serving)

Directions

  • To make Shakshuka, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste (if using), cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
  • Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
  • Make small wells in the sauce and carefully crack the eggs into each well.
  • Cover the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the eggs are poached to your desired doneness.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve with warm crusty bread or pita for dipping.