What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade shakshuka is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. It’s easy to make and packed with fresh ingredients you’ll love. You’ll enjoy the rich tomato sauce with a hint of spice, the perfectly poached eggs that soak up all the flavors, and the chance to customize it with your favorite toppings. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, so cleaning up is a breeze!
Recipe
Shakshuka is a flavorful North African and Middle Eastern dish featuring poached eggs in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any meal of the day. This homemade version is simple, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4-6 large eggs
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and red bell pepper, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Create small wells in the sauce using a spoon. Crack an egg into each well. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still runny.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro and serve immediately with crusty bread.
Notes:
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the cayenne pepper.
- Add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra flavor.
Equipment:
- Large skillet with a lid
- Wooden spoon
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Cuisine:
North African/Middle Eastern
Serving:
2-3 people
Nutrition
Shakshuka is a nutrient-rich dish packed with vegetables and proteins. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love serving shakshuka with warm, crusty bread—it’s perfect for soaking up every bit of that rich tomato sauce. A fresh, crisp salad with cucumbers and parsley adds a nice contrast to the dish’s bold flavors. If you’re feeling extra hungry, toss in some roasted potatoes or hummus for a heartier meal.
Bread Options
Since shakshuka’s rich, saucy goodness practically begs to be soaked up, you’ll want something sturdy and delicious on the side. My go-to is crusty sourdough—its tangy bite balances the tomatoes’ sweetness. If you’re feeling indulgent, warm pita or fluffy focaccia works wonders, tearing easily for scooping. For a rustic touch, try whole-grain bread with nutty depth, or keep it simple with toasted baguette slices. Gluten-free? Chickpea flatbread holds up beautifully. Whatever you pick, make sure it’s fresh—stale bread just won’t do justice to those vibrant flavors. Trust me, the right bread turns a great dish into an unforgettable meal.
Salad Pairings
After savoring that hearty bread with your shakshuka, a fresh salad can be just the thing to round out the meal. I love pairing mine with a simple cucumber-tomato salad—tossed with lemon, olive oil, and a pinch of salt—for a crisp contrast. A tangy fattoush or a bright Israeli salad also works wonders, balancing the rich, spiced tomatoes. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a lemony kale salad with toasted almonds for extra crunch. The key is keeping it light and fresh, so it doesn’t compete with the shakshuka’s bold flavors. Trust me, it’s a game-changer.
