Shakshuka is one of those dishes that once you’ve tried, you can’t get enough of. The rich, simmering tomato sauce spiced with cumin, paprika, and topped with gently poached eggs, makes it an irresistible choice for any meal of the day. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a trip to Israel, where it’s served with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping. Since then, it’s become a weekend breakfast staple in my home, loved for its simplicity and depth of flavor.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or new to the kitchen, this Shakshuka recipe is wonderfully straightforward and forgiving, making it perfect for anyone looking to bring a slice of Mediterranean cuisine into their home.
- 2 tbsp olive oil,
- 1 large onion, diced,
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced,
- 3 garlic cloves, minced,
- 1 tsp ground cumin,
- 1 tsp paprika,
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional),
- 1 can (28 oz) whole plum tomatoes,
- 6 large eggs,
- Salt and pepper to taste,
- Fresh parsley and feta cheese for garnish
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sliced red bell pepper, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and the peppers soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using), cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the canned tomatoes, breaking them up with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper, then let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the sauce has thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Using a spoon, make six wells in the sauce. Crack an egg into each well. Cover the pan and cook for 5-8 minutes, or until the eggs are just set. Be careful not to overcook the eggs; you want the yolks to be slightly runny.
Final words
Congratulations, you’ve just made a beautiful, heartwarming Shakshuka! Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese. Enjoy it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Shakshuka is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visually stunning dish that’s sure to impress. Thank you for following along, and I hope you dive into more recipes on my site. Happy cooking!
Tags
Shakshuka recipe, easy shakshuka, Mediterranean breakfast, poached eggs