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Shakshuka Recipe

4.9 from 50 reviews

Shakshuka is a flavorful and comforting Middle Eastern and North African dish featuring poached eggs simmered in a spicy tomato and bell pepper sauce. This easy one-pan recipe combines aromatic spices like paprika, cumin, and chili powder with fresh herbs, creating a vibrant and hearty meal perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time of day.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes
  • 6 large eggs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 small bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 small bunch fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat the Oil and Sauté Vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the vegetables are softened.
  2. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the finely chopped garlic along with 2 teaspoons paprika, 1 teaspoon cumin, and ¼ teaspoon chili powder. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in the entire can of whole peeled tomatoes with their juice. Use a large spoon to break down the tomatoes into smaller pieces. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook gently to blend the flavors.
  4. Poach the Eggs: Using the spoon, create small wells in the simmering tomato sauce and crack one egg into each well. Cook the eggs for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks reach your desired doneness. Cover the pan with a lid to speed up cooking if you like.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the top with chopped fresh cilantro and parsley. Serve immediately, optionally accompanied by pita bread, avocado slices, or crumbled feta for added richness.

Notes

  • For added richness, crumble feta or goat cheese on top before serving, if not dairy-free.
  • Traditionally served with pita bread, but avocado slices make a delicious accompaniment.
  • Avoid cooking shakshuka in cast iron pans as the acidity of tomatoes may damage the seasoning and impart a metallic flavor; use stainless steel or non-reactive cookware instead.

Keywords: Shakshuka, eggs in tomato sauce, Middle Eastern breakfast, North African dish, poached eggs, spicy tomato sauce, easy breakfast recipe