Shakshuka (Poached Eggs in Tomato Sauce)

Shakshuka is one of those dishes that beautifully blends simplicity with rich, complex flavors. With its origins deeply rooted in the Middle East and North Africa, it has become a popular dish worldwide, especially for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. The star of this dish is the poached eggs nestled in a vibrant and aromatic tomato sauce. The sauce is spiced with cumin, paprika, garlic, and onion, creating a perfect base for the eggs to cook gently in, with the yolks remaining wonderfully runny. The combination of warm spices, savory tomatoes, and soft eggs makes this a satisfying meal that feels like a comforting hug on a plate.

While Shakshuka is often served for breakfast, it can be enjoyed at any time of day. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your taste, whether you prefer it with extra spice, more vegetables, or even a touch of cheese. The beauty of Shakshuka lies in its simplicity—one pan, a handful of ingredients, and minimal preparation—but the end result is an impressive and mouthwatering dish that never fails to impress.

Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or simply looking for an easy but delicious meal, Shakshuka offers the perfect balance of taste, texture, and nourishment. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore how to make this delightful dish from scratch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Shakshuka has become a beloved dish for many reasons, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it has earned such a loyal following.

Incredible Flavor Profile: The combination of garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne gives the tomato sauce a rich, warm flavor with a subtle hint of heat, perfectly complementing the soft, poached eggs. The sweet-tangy tomatoes balance the spices, creating a mouthwatering base that makes every bite irresistible.
Quick and Easy to Make: Shakshuka is a one-pan meal, which makes it not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare. It’s perfect for busy mornings or casual weeknight dinners when you don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen.
Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with vegetables, protein, and healthy fats, this dish provides a nutrient-dense meal that keeps you full and satisfied. The tomatoes are rich in vitamins, and the eggs offer a great source of protein and healthy fats, making this dish both delicious and nourishing.
Customizable: Shakshuka is incredibly versatile. You can add or remove ingredients to suit your dietary preferences, whether you want to make it vegan, add meat, or experiment with different vegetables and cheeses. It’s a great base recipe that invites creativity.
Great for Meal Prep: If you’re looking for something that can be prepped in advance, Shakshuka fits the bill. You can make the tomato sauce ahead of time and simply add the eggs when you’re ready to eat. This makes it an ideal dish for meal prep or for busy mornings.

Ingredients:

To make this flavorful Shakshuka, you will need a handful of fresh ingredients. The simplicity of the recipe allows each ingredient to shine, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish.

2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps to sauté the vegetables and create a rich base for the sauce.
1 onion, finely chopped: Onion adds a sweet, savory flavor to the sauce.
1 bell pepper, chopped (red or green): Bell peppers bring color and sweetness to the dish.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic adds aromatic depth to the sauce.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: This warm spice is a key component of Shakshuka’s distinctive flavor profile.
1 teaspoon ground paprika: Paprika adds a mild smokiness to the dish.
1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for heat): Adds a bit of heat for those who like a spicy kick.
1 can (400g) diced tomatoes: Provides the rich, tangy base for the sauce.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: Adds depth and richness to the tomato flavor.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
4 large eggs: The star of the dish, poached gently in the tomato sauce.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, herby note and a pop of color.
Crumbled feta cheese (optional, for garnish): A creamy, salty topping that pairs perfectly with the tomato sauce.
Warm pita or crusty bread, for serving: The perfect accompaniment to scoop up the delicious sauce and eggs.

Preparation:

Step 1: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll need a skillet with a lid, as you’ll be covering it later to cook the eggs. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, until they’re softened and starting to caramelize. The goal is to develop a sweet and savory base for the sauce.

Step 2: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute or two, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Then, add the ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if you like spice). Stir the spices into the vegetables and cook for another 1-2 minutes. This will allow the spices to bloom and release their fragrant oils, which will add depth to the sauce.

Step 3: Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring everything to combine. The tomatoes will provide the tangy base for the sauce, while the tomato paste adds richness and helps thicken the mixture. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, uncovered, until it thickens and the flavors meld together. You can add a little water or vegetable broth if the sauce gets too thick. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Once the sauce is ready, use the back of a spoon to create small wells in the tomato sauce. Carefully crack the eggs into each well, one at a time. Make sure to crack the eggs gently so the yolks don’t break. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the whites of the eggs are set, but the yolks are still runny. If you prefer your eggs more cooked, you can cook them longer until the yolks reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Once the eggs are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese (if using). Serve immediately with warm pita or crusty bread for dipping into the rich tomato sauce and running egg yolks.

Variation:

Shakshuka is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are a few variations you can try:

Vegetarian: While this recipe is already vegetarian, you can easily add extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to increase the nutritional value and add more flavor.
Vegan: For a vegan version, simply skip the eggs and replace them with tofu scramble or chickpeas for protein. You can also use vegan cheese in place of feta.
Add Meat: If you’re a fan of meat, consider adding cooked sausage, ground lamb, or bacon to the sauce before adding the eggs. The savory meat will complement the tomato sauce and add extra richness.
Cheese Options: Feta cheese is a classic topping for Shakshuka, but you can experiment with other cheeses. Goat cheese adds a tangy creaminess, while mozzarella or ricotta can make the dish even more indulgent.

COOKING Note:

Eggs: The key to perfectly poached eggs in Shakshuka is careful timing. If you like your eggs runny, check them at the 5-minute mark. For more firm eggs, cook them a few minutes longer. Make sure to cover the skillet with a lid to help the eggs cook evenly in the sauce.
Tomato Sauce Consistency: If you find the sauce too thin, let it simmer for longer to thicken up. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
One-Pan Convenience: Shakshuka is a one-pan wonder, which makes cleanup much easier. Just be sure to use a large enough skillet to hold all the ingredients comfortably, and remember to cover the pan while cooking the eggs to ensure they cook evenly.

Serving Suggestions:

Bread: Shakshuka is best enjoyed with a side of warm pita or crusty bread. Use the bread to scoop up the flavorful tomato sauce and runny eggs—there’s no better way to enjoy it!
Yogurt: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt on the side provides a cool, creamy contrast to the spicy tomato sauce. You can also drizzle a little olive oil over the top for extra richness.
Salad: Pair your Shakshuka with a light salad of fresh cucumber, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon to balance the warmth of the dish.
Olives: A few Kalamata olives on the side can add a salty, briny flavor that complements the richness of the eggs and sauce.

Tips:

Adjust the spice level: If you like it mild, reduce the amount of cayenne or paprika. For more heat, add more cayenne or use a hotter chili pepper.
Use fresh tomatoes: For a fresher taste, use ripe, fresh tomatoes instead of canned. Simply blanch and peel them before chopping and adding to the skillet.
Perfect Eggs: Keep an eye on your eggs while they cook. The whites should be firm, but the yolks should remain runny for the classic Shakshuka experience. If you want them more cooked, let them simmer a little longer.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Calories: 220
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 400mg

FAQs:

Can I make Shakshuka ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, create wells for the eggs, and poach them as instructed.
What if I don’t have a lid for my skillet?
If you don’t have a lid, you can cover the skillet with a large piece of foil or use a large plate to trap the heat. Alternatively, you can cook the eggs uncovered, but you may need to cook them a little longer.
Can I freeze Shakshuka?
It’s best to freeze the tomato sauce separately from the eggs. You can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months, and when you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce and cook the eggs fresh. Freezing the eggs may result in a change in texture.

Conclusion:

Shakshuka is a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that brings comfort and warmth to the table. With its flavorful tomato sauce, aromatic spices, and poached eggs, this dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weekend brunch, a quick weeknight dinner, or a special meal with friends and family. The beauty of Shakshuka lies in its versatility—feel free to add your own twist to make it truly your own. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different vegetables, meats, or cheeses, you’re sure to enjoy a delicious and nourishing meal every time. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the taste of the Middle East in your own kitchen!