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Shakshouka

Shakshouka

Shakshouka is a vibrant and hearty Middle Eastern breakfast dish featuring poached eggs nestled in a rich, spiced tomato, pepper, and garlic sauce. Cooked in one pan, this flavorful and nutritious meal is quick to prepare and ideal for a warm, satisfying start to the day.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 12 bell peppers, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 46 large eggs

Spices

  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers and cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened and lightly golden. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  2. Build the Tomato Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add paprika, cumin, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.
  3. Poach the Eggs: Create 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 egg whites are set but yolks remain runny.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top. Serve immediately with warm crusty bread, pita, or your preferred side for dipping.

Notes

  • Use fresh ripe tomatoes if possible for a sweeter, more vibrant sauce.
  • Allow the sauce to simmer slowly to develop deeper flavors and a thicker texture.
  • Cover the pan while poaching eggs to ensure even cooking.
  • Adjust chili flakes bit by bit to control spiciness as desired.
  • Serve with crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: Shakshouka, Middle Eastern breakfast, poached eggs, tomato sauce, one-pan meal, spicy eggs