Classic Shakshuka with Sourdough

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, color, and comfort, look no further than Classic Shakshuka. This dish, rooted in Middle Eastern and North African cuisine, is the perfect combination of poached eggs, savory tomatoes, and a blend of spices that’ll transport you to the vibrant streets of Tel Aviv or Marrakech. Served with a side of warm, crispy sourdough bread to soak up every drop of that spicy, tangy tomato sauce, Shakshuka is the kind of dish you’ll want to make for breakfast, lunch, or dinner—it’s just that versatile. Trust me, this one’s a keeper. Are you ready to dive in and enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that hits all the right notes? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love Classic Shakshuka with Sourdough

Bold and Flavorful: The blend of tomatoes, peppers, onions, garlic, and spices creates a rich, zesty sauce that’s bursting with flavor. When you dip that sourdough bread into the sauce, it’s like a flavor explosion in every bite.

Quick and Easy: While this dish looks and tastes like it took hours to perfect, it’s actually surprisingly simple to make. Just a few ingredients, one pan, and about 30 minutes—no complicated steps here!

Customizable: You can make this dish as spicy or mild as you like by adjusting the amount of chili or paprika. Plus, you can add extra toppings like feta, parsley, or even olives to suit your taste.

Hearty and Satisfying: The eggs poached right in the sauce create a creamy, rich texture that pairs perfectly with the crispy sourdough. It’s comfort food at its finest, and it’ll keep you full and satisfied.

Perfect for Any Meal: Whether you’re having a leisurely brunch, a cozy dinner, or a casual meal with friends, Shakshuka is always a hit. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Classic Shakshuka with Sourdough

Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables and creating a rich base for the sauce. Use good quality olive oil for the best flavor.

Onions and Bell Peppers: They add sweetness and texture to the sauce. You can use red or yellow bell peppers, but green works too!

Garlic: A must-have for that aromatic base. Garlic brings depth and richness to the dish.

Canned Tomatoes: The heart of the sauce! Go for high-quality, whole canned tomatoes that break down nicely when cooked.

Tomato Paste: Adds richness and a more concentrated tomato flavor to the sauce.

Spices (Cumin, Paprika, Chili Powder): These spices give Shakshuka its signature flavor profile—warm, smoky, and just the right amount of heat.

Eggs: The star of the dish! The eggs cook right in the sauce, creating that creamy, runny yolk that’s so satisfying.

Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Cilantro): A sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.

Sourdough Bread: Thick slices of sourdough are perfect for dipping into the sauce. The tangy flavor of the bread complements the richness of the shakshuka perfectly.

(Note: The full list of ingredients, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get started on this delicious journey to flavor town!

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers and sauté until they’re softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure they don’t burn.

Step 2: Add the Garlic and Spices

Add the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and chili powder to the pan, and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. This is where the magic happens—the spices will bloom and fill your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Tomato Paste

Stir in the canned tomatoes (with their juices) and tomato paste. Break down the tomatoes with a wooden spoon or spatula, creating a chunky, rich sauce. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more spices if needed.

Step 4: Make Wells for the Eggs

Once the sauce has thickened, create little wells in the sauce using a spoon. Gently crack an egg into each well. Be careful not to break the yolks! Cover the pan and cook for 6-8 minutes, depending on how runny you want your eggs. The whites should be set, but the yolks should still be runny and delicious.

Step 5: Toast the Sourdough

While the eggs are cooking, toast your sourdough bread until golden and crispy. You can either toast it in a toaster or on a griddle with a little butter for extra flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, remove the pan from heat. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the shakshuka with slices of warm sourdough on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 280
Total Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 185mg
Sodium: 440mg
Total Carbohydrates: 20g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 13g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Classic Shakshuka with Sourdough

This dish is perfect for a cozy meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Here are a few ideas for serving it:

With Extra Toppings

Top your shakshuka with crumbled feta, a sprinkle of chili flakes, or even some olives for added flavor. A drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice also enhances the richness of the dish.

Add a Salad

A crisp, refreshing salad can balance out the richness of the shakshuka. Try a simple green salad with arugula, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.

Serve with Hummus

Hummus pairs beautifully with shakshuka, especially when you scoop it up with the sourdough bread. It’s a creamy, savory complement to the dish.

Additional Tips

Adjust the Spice Level

If you prefer a spicier dish, add extra chili powder or fresh chili peppers to the sauce. If you want to tone it down, use less chili and paprika.

Make It Vegetarian or Vegan

This dish is naturally vegetarian, but you can make it vegan by substituting the eggs with tofu or a plant-based egg substitute.

Prepare in Advance

You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, heat the sauce, then crack the eggs into the sauce and cook.

Leftovers

Shakshuka makes great leftovers! Store the sauce and eggs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make Shakshuka in advance?
A1: Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, then add and cook the eggs.

Q2: Can I make Shakshuka without eggs?
A2: Absolutely! If you’re vegan or just don’t want eggs, you can substitute with tofu or a plant-based egg alternative.

Q3: Can I freeze leftover Shakshuka?
A3: While the eggs may not freeze well, you can freeze the shakshuka sauce for up to 2 months. Reheat the sauce before adding fresh eggs.

Q4: Can I make Shakshuka with other vegetables?
A4: Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or eggplant to the sauce for added texture and flavor.

Q5: How do I get the eggs to cook perfectly?
A5: Keep the pan covered while cooking to ensure the eggs cook evenly. If you like runny yolks, check them after 6 minutes. For fully cooked yolks, cook for 8-10 minutes.

Q6: What if I don’t have sourdough?
A6: You can use any kind of crusty bread like baguette, ciabatta, or even pita. Just toast it up for that satisfying crunch.

Q7: Can I make this spicy?
A7: Yes! Add more chili powder, or include fresh chilies to make it as spicy as you like.

Q8: Can I serve Shakshuka with a side dish?
A8: Serve it with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a more complete meal. It’s also great with a dollop of hummus.

Q9: How do I make Shakshuka in a large batch?
A9: Double or triple the recipe and cook in a larger skillet or a roasting pan. Make sure to cook the eggs in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Q10: Can I add cheese to my Shakshuka?
A10: Yes! Feta cheese works wonderfully with shakshuka. Crumble it over the dish just before serving.

Conclusion

Classic Shakshuka with sourdough is the perfect balance of bold flavors and comforting textures, all in one dish. It’s easy to make, and the result is a meal that’s guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re serving it for brunch or a quick dinner, this vibrant, savory dish will become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every bite of this Middle Eastern classic!

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