🥘 Shakshuka – A Flavorful Middle Eastern Egg Delight
Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about waking up to the aroma of Shakshuka, a traditional Middle Eastern breakfast dish featuring poached eggs simmered in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce. This one-pan wonder is not only vibrant and hearty but also deeply satisfying. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, Shakshuka has made its way from North African kitchens to global dining tables.
Whether you’re a food lover exploring new flavors or someone looking for an easy yet exotic dish, this Shakshuka recipe will become your next go-to meal!
Embark on a culinary adventure with *Shakshuka*, a beloved dish that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. Originating from the vibrant kitchens of North Africa, particularly Tunisia, and embraced across the Middle East, Shakshuka is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. This one-pan wonder features eggs poached in a spiced tomato sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that are both comforting and exciting.
🧄 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sauce:
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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4 large tomatoes (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tsp cumin powder
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp chili flakes (adjust to spice preference)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Eggs:
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4 to 6 eggs
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Fresh parsley or coriander for garnish
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Crumbled feta cheese (optional)
🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Base
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium flame. Add chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking for 5–7 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
Step 2: Build the Tomato Sauce
Add chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices (cumin, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper). Stir well and simmer for 10–12 minutes, letting the sauce thicken and the flavors combine beautifully.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Make small wells in the sauce using a spoon and gently crack the eggs into each well. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for 5–8 minutes, depending on how runny you prefer your yolks.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once the eggs are perfectly poached, sprinkle chopped parsley or coriander and a handful of crumbled feta cheese. Serve hot with pita bread, naan, or crusty toast.
🥄 Tips to Perfect Your Shakshuka
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Use fresh ripe tomatoes for a richer flavor, or go with canned ones for convenience.
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Add spinach, mushrooms, or chickpeas for a hearty variation.
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If you love heat, toss in a chopped green chili or a pinch of cayenne.
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Always cook eggs on low heat to keep the whites tender and yolks creamy.
🧊 Storage and Reheating Tips
You can store leftover Shakshuka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
When reheating, warm it gently on low heat in a pan. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water.
Avoid freezing, as eggs can lose their texture upon thawing.
🧠 Nutritional Benefits
Shakshuka isn’t just delicious—it’s wholesome too!
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Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins.
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Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and lycopene.
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Olive oil and spices promote heart health and metabolism.
It’s the perfect combination of flavor, color, and nourishment—ideal for a healthy lifestyle.
🔗 Internal Link
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Also read: Street-Style Chicken Shawarma Wrap
- https://blopost.com/street-style-chicken-shawarma-wrap/
💭 Final Thoughts
Shakshuka is more than just a dish—it’s a story of flavor and warmth shared across cultures. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread for breakfast or as a cozy dinner meal, each bite bursts with rich tomato flavor and perfectly cooked eggs.
🌿 Try making it today and bring a little Middle Eastern sunshine to your table!