Breakfast & Snacks

Shakshuka Egg Recipe – Great Meal Recipes

Name: Shakshuka Egg Recipe – Great Meal Recipes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced; 4 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 sweet red bell pepper, cored and chopped; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon ground coriander; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper; ½ teaspoon honey or maple syrup; 1 can of fire-roasted whole tomatoes, crushed by hand; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 6 large eggs, farm fresh if possible; 1 small handful of fresh cilantro, roughly chopped; 1 small handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped

Barbara Brito April 12, 2025

Servings: 6 Total Time: 30 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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I remember the first time I encountered shakshuka. I was at a cozy café during a trip abroad, sitting at a small table with sunlight streaming through the windows. The dish arrived, vibrant and steaming, an enchanting mix of colors that promised flavor.

What is that? I asked myself. Little did I know that this mere question would lead me to a deeper appreciation for food and cooking.

What is Shakshuka Egg?

Shakshuka, pronounced “shahk-SHOO-kah,” is a traditional North African and Middle Eastern dish made with poached eggs in a sauce of tomatoes, chili peppers, and spices. It’s typically served in the skillet it’s cooked in, providing a rustic charm.

Though the exact origins are debated, many agree that shakshuka has roots in Tunisia, with Palestinian and Israeli versions also gaining popularity.

Imagine a base of rich, spicy, and slightly sweet tomatoes, blanketed by perfectly cooked eggs, their yolks just waiting to be broken. That first dip of bread into the gooey yolk with a hint of spice? Pure bliss.

Why You’ll Love This Shakshuka Egg

There are countless reasons to adore shakshuka eggs.

1. Simplicity: The beauty of shakshuka lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up something that feels gourmet.

2. Versatility: Don’t think of it as a mere breakfast option. Shakshuka can easily transition into lunch or dinner. You can spice it up or keep it mellow—it’s up to you!

3. Health Benefits: Packed with tomatoes and eggs, it’s nutritious. You’re getting vitamins, minerals, and plenty of protein in each bite.

4. Sharing is Caring: Served straight from the skillet, shakshuka invites sharing. Gather with friends or family to relish every bite together.

5. Global Affair: It offers a taste of different cultures with every mouthful, broadening your culinary horizons.

The Ingredients

To create this culinary masterpiece, gather the following:

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 sweet red bell pepper, cored and chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground coriander
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon honey or maple syrup
1 (28-ounce) can of fire-roasted whole tomatoes, crushed by hand
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
6 large eggs, farm fresh if possible
1 small handful of fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
1 small handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped

With this list, you are well on your way to creating something unforgettable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

Start by pouring two tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil into a large skillet over medium heat. Let it warm up until it shimmers just a bit.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the finely diced onion to the oil and sauté until it’s translucent—about five minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen is filled with a delicious aroma, making your mouth water.

Step 3: Mix in the Bell Pepper

Next, add the chopped red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir occasionally and let it cook down for about five minutes. The peppers should soften and meld with the onions, adding sweetness to the mix.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper. This step transforms your dish, infusing it with warmth and depth.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes

Now it’s time for the stars of the show. Pour in the crushed fire-roasted tomatoes. Stir this mixture well, making sure the spices evenly coat the tomatoes. Add the honey or maple syrup to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Simmer

Lower the heat and let your mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can already see the vibrant colors deepening.

Step 7: Create Wells for the Eggs

Using a spoon, make small wells in the tomato mixture. Crack the eggs into each well, taking care to keep the yolks intact.

Step 8: Cooking the Eggs

Cover the skillet with a lid and let the eggs poach in the tomato sauce for about 5 to 8 minutes, depending on how runny you like your yolks. Check periodically until they reach your desired doneness.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro and parsley on top. Serve immediately, still bubbling in the skillet—grab some crusty bread to soak it all up!

Tips & Tricks

Here are some valuable tips to ensure that your shakshuka turns out great every time:

Use fresh produce: Fresh ingredients make a massive difference. Try to use fresh tomatoes, if available.
Adjust spice levels: If you’re not a fan of heat, skip the cayenne. Alternatively, add chili flakes for an extra kick if you like it spicy.
Experiment with toppings: Feta cheese or avocado on top can elevate the flavor profile spectacularly.
Make it ahead: You can prepare the base without the eggs in advance. This way, all you need to do is crack the eggs and cook when you’re ready to eat!
Serve it hot: The best way to enjoy shakshuka is hot and straight from the skillet.

Can I Store Shakshuka Egg?

Absolutely! Shakshuka can be stored for future enjoyment. If you have leftovers, allow them to cool before transferring them into an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days.

To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet. I suggest that you add fresh eggs while reheating if you want that freshly poached flavor.

What Can I Serve with Shakshuka Egg?

Shakshuka pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some ideas:

Crusty Bread: Bread for dipping is a must! Think baguettes, sourdough, or pita.
Salad: A light salad can balance the richness. Try a simple arugula salad with lemon dressing.
Yogurt: A dollop of plain yogurt or labneh can add creaminess.
Avocado: Sliced avocado alongside shakshuka makes for a delightful pairing.
Rice or Couscous: Serve shakshuka over a bed of rice or fluffy couscous for a heartier meal.

Variations

Exploring variations of shakshuka can be as exciting as the dish itself!

Mexican Shakshuka: Incorporating black beans, corn, and jalapeños switches up the spices and flavors to give it a fun twist.
Mediterranean Style: Adding olives and feta cheese gives a Greek flair, enhancing the overall taste profile.
Spicy Harissa Shakshuka: Integrate harissa paste instead of or in addition to the spices for a North African twist.
Vegetable-Loaded: Toss in zucchini, spinach, or kale for added nutrition without compromising the taste.
Cheesy Shakshuka: Topping it off with melted cheese, like mozzarella or goat cheese, creates a rich finish that’s hard to resist.

Conclusion

Shakshuka has a way of brightening up any meal. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and provides a connection to various cultures. As I continue to whip up this dish in my kitchen, each batch feels like a new adventure.

It brings joy and comfort, whether I’m enjoying it alone or sharing it with loved ones. So grab your skillet and ingredients, and dive into the glorious world of shakshuka. Trust me, it’s worth every ounce of effort!

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Print Recipe

Shakshuka Egg Recipe – Great Meal Recipes

Author: Barbara Brito Cuisine: Mediterranean Courses: Breakfast & Snacks

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 30 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 146 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

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