Shakshuka is a dish that brings together bold flavors and simple ingredients in the most delicious way. Originating from North Africa and popular in the Middle East, this dish features poached eggs cooked in a rich, spiced tomato sauce with peppers, onions, and garlic. It’s the kind of comforting meal that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.
To make shakshuka, start by sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers in olive oil until they’re soft and fragrant. Add in crushed tomatoes, along with spices like cumin, paprika, and a pinch of chili flakes for a little heat. Let the sauce simmer and thicken, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Once your tomato sauce is ready, make small wells in the sauce with a spoon and crack fresh eggs into each well. Cover the pan and cook the eggs until the whites are set but the yolks remain soft and runny, usually about 5-7 minutes, depending on how well-done you like your eggs.
Shakshuka is incredibly versatile, so feel free to adjust the seasoning and spice levels to suit your tastes. Some variations include adding feta cheese for a creamy contrast, or olives and harissa for an extra depth of flavor. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can be sprinkled over the top just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
Serve your shakshuka directly from the pan for a rustic presentation, and don’t forget the bread! Warm pita or crusty sourdough is perfect for dipping into the flavorful tomato sauce and runny egg yolks.
This dish is a great way to start the day with a hearty, flavorful breakfast that’s packed with nutrients. It’s also easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends or family. Whether you’re looking for something new to try for brunch or a satisfying weeknight dinner, shakshuka will surely become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion medium, diced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 can diced tomatoes 400g
- 4-6 eggs large
- parsley chopped fresh for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion and bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Make small wells in the sauce and crack the eggs into them. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the eggs are cooked to your liking.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Why do you put eggs in it? Like what if you’re vegan?!
It was okay, but I think I added too much chili powder. It was spiccy! 😅
Too spicy? LOL! I must’ve missed that part! 😂 Gotta love spicy food!
Maybe try less next time! Shakshuka is so good without too much heat.😊
This is the best breakfast dish ever! So flavorful and filling. I can’t believe I never tried making it before! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Delish! I added some feta cheese on top and it was AMAZING!!!
I used green peppers instead of red, and I think it ruined the taste. Idk if I would make it again.
I actually love green peppers! But I get it, red ones have a sweeter taste. Maybe try adding a bit of sugar next time to balance it out?
Absolutely love this recipe! So easy and delicious! Perfect for brunch.
I tried it this weekend and it was a hit! My family loved it too! 🙌
Looks good, but isn’t it hard to make? I’m not a great cook…
I’m not sure about the cumin. It was a bit strong for my taste. Maybe I’ll cut back next time.
Nah, cumin is the best part! It gives it that authentic flavor. Don’t cut back too much!
I totally understand! Cumin can be overpowering sometimes. Maybe try half a teaspoon next time? It might balance the flavors better.
Tasted like a fancy breakfast! I added some feta cheese on top, and it was delish!
Yum! Feta sounds like a great addition! I’ll have to try that next time! 🥗
I dunno, sounds kinda weird. Eggs and tomatoes? But if you like it, that’s cool.
I accidentally used curry powder (instead of cumin) and it was… not what I expected. But my roommate liked it so hey, experiment!
This was amazing! The spices really make it pop. 🔥
Totally agree! This dish is just bursting with flavor! 🤤
Wow, this looks delicious! Can’t wait to try it for breakfast!
This is comfort food in a skillet. I added some feta at the end and it took it to another level. Would recommend for anyone who likes savory breakfast.
Yum! But why doesn’t it say how many servings this makes? I made it for 4 people and barely had enough!
Shakshuka? Sounds fancy. Is it just eggs and salsa? I don’t know if I’ll try this. 🤷
I didn’t have chili powder so I used paprika twice. Still yum! 🤷♀️
Paprika is a great substitute! Glad it turned out yummy! 🌟
This is how you say it: shakshuka. It’s a middle eastern dish from Israel, if I am right. Not my thing tho.
It’s good, but the eggs were too runny for my taste. Next time I’ll cook them longer.
Shakshuka is one of my favs! This recipe is super easy to follow!
The spices are too much, maybe just stick with salt and pepper next time? 🤷♂️
I think I messed it up. My sauce got burnt and the eggs were hard. Gotta try again.
Maybe you left it on the stove too long? Eggs should be runny, not rock hard. Better luck next time!
Don’t be too hard on yourself! Cooking can be tricky sometimes. Just remember to keep an eye on the heat next time. You got this!