Description
Classic Shakshuka is a vibrant, flavorful dish featuring poached eggs in a spiced tomato and bell pepper sauce. With a touch of cumin, paprika, and garlic, this Middle Eastern/North African classic is full of bold flavors. Served with crusty sourdough bread, it makes for the perfect breakfast or brunch. Enjoy the rich, tangy sauce paired with runny eggs and hearty bread to dip!
Ingredients
For the Shakshuka:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large eggs
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For the Sourdough:
- 4 slices of sourdough bread
- 2 tablespoons butter (for toasting)
Instructions
-
Make the Shakshuka:
-
Prepare the sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. -
Add garlic and spices:
Add the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to become fragrant. -
Add tomatoes and simmer:
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and water. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. -
Add the eggs:
Make 4 small wells in the sauce with a spoon and crack an egg into each well. Cover the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny. If you prefer firmer yolks, cook for a few extra minutes.
Make the Sourdough:
- Toast the sourdough:
While the shakshuka is cooking, heat a separate pan over medium heat and melt the butter. Toast the sourdough slices on both sides until golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
-
Serve the shakshuka:
Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. -
Plate the dish:
Serve the shakshuka hot, alongside the toasted sourdough bread for dipping. Enjoy!
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Notes
- You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper, or use mild paprika for a more subtle flavor.
- For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt right before serving.
- If you prefer to make this ahead of time, prepare the shakshuka sauce and refrigerate it. Reheat before adding the eggs and cooking them to order.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern, North African
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion with 1 slice of sourdough
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 185mg