Easy and Delicious Shakshuka Recipe

Shakshuka is a delicious and aromatic dish of poached eggs in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce. Originating from North Africa and widely popular in the Middle East, Shakshuka has become a beloved breakfast and brunch dish worldwide. It’s simple to prepare and packed with flavours from cumin, paprika, and fresh herbs. This versatile dish can be enjoyed any time of the day and is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients

To prepare Shakshuka, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 4-6 large eggs
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh coriander or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Crumbled feta cheese (optional, for garnish)
• Crusty bread or pita, for serving

Instructions

Follow these steps to make Shakshuka:

1. Sauté Vegetables:

   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the chopped red and yellow bell peppers and continue to cook until they soften, about 5-7 minutes more.

2. Add Garlic and Spices:

   • Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute until the spices are fragrant.

3. Add Tomatoes:

   • Pour in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld and the sauce to thicken.

4. Create Wells and Add Eggs:

   • Use a spoon to make small wells in the tomato sauce, then carefully crack an egg into each well. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 5-8 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still runny (cook longer if you prefer firmer yolks).

5. Garnish and Serve:

   • Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh coriander or parsley and crumbled feta cheese, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or pita for dipping.

Tips for Making Shakshuka

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder Shakshuka, omit the cayenne pepper. For more heat, add extra cayenne or a chopped fresh chilli.

• Tomato Quality: Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavour. You can also use fresh tomatoes in season.

• Egg Doneness: Keep an eye on the eggs as they cook. Covering the skillet helps the eggs cook evenly. For firmer yolks, cook for a few minutes longer.

Serving Suggestions

Shakshuka pairs well with:

• Bread: Serve with crusty bread, pita, or naan to soak up the delicious sauce.

• Salad: A fresh green salad or cucumber and tomato salad makes a great side dish.

• Yoghurt: A dollop of plain Greek yoghurt can add a creamy contrast to the spicy tomato sauce.

Conclusion

Shakshuka is a vibrant and flavourful dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. With its rich tomato sauce and perfectly poached eggs, it’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, Shakshuka is sure to become a favourite in your recipe collection. Experiment with different spices and toppings to make it your own!

FAQs

Can I make Shakshuka ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Add the eggs just before serving to ensure they are perfectly cooked.

Can I add other vegetables to Shakshuka? Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can be added to the tomato sauce for extra flavour and nutrition.

Is Shakshuka vegetarian? Yes, Shakshuka is typically a vegetarian dish. You can also make it vegan by omitting the eggs and adding chickpeas or tofu.

How do I store leftovers? Store leftover Shakshuka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

What other cheeses can I use? Besides feta, you can use goat cheese, ricotta, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a different flavour profile.

Enjoy the delicious and aromatic flavours of Shakshuka, a perfect dish for any meal!