Oh, let me tell you about *shakshuka*! This vibrant dish has its roots in North Africa and the Middle East, and it’s become a beloved breakfast staple across the globe. Imagine perfectly poached eggs nestled in a spicy, rich tomato sauce, bursting with flavor and color. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate! I love how it’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a comforting yet healthy option to start your day. Trust me, once you try this shakshuka recipe, you’ll be hooked on its aromatic spices and the way it brings everyone together at the breakfast table. It’s simply irresistible!
Ingredients for Shakshuka Recipe
To make this delicious shakshuka, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create magic in your skillet. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced (the sweeter, the better!)
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green, your choice!)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (for that warm, earthy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoky goodness here)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, but I love the kick!)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes (the base of our luscious sauce)
- 6 large eggs (these are the stars of the show!)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t forget to season, it makes a difference!)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (for that pop of color and freshness)
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to making a comforting dish that’s perfect for any breakfast or brunch!
How to Prepare the Shakshuka Recipe
Alright, let’s dive into the wonderful world of shakshuka! This recipe is as easy as it is delicious, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Here’s how to create this flavorful dish step by step:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want that oil nice and hot, but not smoking—just a gentle shimmer will do.
- Next, toss in the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re soft and the onion is translucent. This is when the kitchen starts smelling heavenly!
- Now, it’s time to add the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook this fragrant mixture for just 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning. Wow, the aromas are going to be amazing!
- Pour in those crushed tomatoes and give it a good stir. Let this simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Here comes the fun part! Use a spoon to make small wells in the sauce and crack the eggs gently into each well. Cover the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still runny. You definitely want that silky texture!
- Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley for a splash of color and serve it up hot!
And there you have it! A beautiful shakshuka that’s not only delicious but also makes your kitchen feel like a warm, inviting space. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your shakshuka turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to elevate your dish:
- Eggs: For perfectly poached eggs, crack them into a small bowl first before adding them to the sauce. This way, you can ensure they slide in gently and avoid any shell mishaps.
- Spice it up: If you like it spicy, feel free to add more cayenne or even a splash of hot sauce. You can always kick it up a notch!
- Feta cheese: Crumbling some feta on top before serving adds a delightful creamy tang that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes.
- Veggie variations: Don’t hesitate to throw in some spinach or zucchini for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition!
Remember, cooking is all about experimenting, so feel free to make this dish your own. Enjoy the process!
Nutritional Information for Shakshuka Recipe
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this delightful shakshuka! Each serving is approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 16g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
These values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of the wholesome ingredients you’re enjoying. With a nice balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super easy to whip up, making breakfast a breeze!
- The rich flavors of the tomato sauce combined with spices are simply irresistible.
- Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a nourishing way to start your day.
- Customizable with your favorite ingredients, so you can make it uniquely yours.
- Perfect for sharing with family or friends, bringing everyone together around the table.
Serving Suggestions
To truly elevate your shakshuka experience, I highly recommend serving it with some warm, crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping into that luscious tomato sauce and soaking up all the flavors! A nice, fluffy pita is also a fantastic choice—just tear it apart and dive right in. If you’re looking to add a little crunch, a simple side salad with fresh greens, cucumber, and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette complements the dish beautifully. You could even serve it with some roasted vegetables for an extra boost of nutrition. Enjoy your meal with family or friends, and watch everyone savor each bite!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making this delicious shakshuka? Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered! Here are some common inquiries:
How long does it take to cook shakshuka?
Typically, it takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. The prep is quick, around 10 minutes, and the cooking time is about 20 minutes. Perfect for a busy morning!
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add in whatever veggies you have on hand, like spinach, zucchini, or even mushrooms. They’ll cook beautifully in the sauce!
What if I don’t have crushed tomatoes?
No problem! You can substitute with diced tomatoes or even tomato puree. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to allow for any differences in thickness.
Can I make shakshuka ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a couple of days. Just reheat it before adding the eggs for a quick breakfast!
What should I serve with shakshuka?
I love serving it with warm bread for dipping, but you can also enjoy it with a side salad or some fresh fruit to balance out the meal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers of this scrumptious shakshuka (which is rare in my kitchen!), you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to warm it through without overcooking the eggs. If you prefer, you can also pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, just keep an eye on it to avoid any rubbery eggs. Enjoy that comforting goodness once more!
For more information on the health benefits of tomatoes, check out this Healthline article.
To learn more about the origins of shakshuka, visit this Serious Eats page.
Print
Shakshuka Recipe: 5 Steps to a Delightfully Tasty Meal
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A traditional Middle Eastern dish of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 6 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and bell pepper. Sauté until soft.
- Add garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne. Cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Make wells in the sauce and crack eggs into them.
- Cover and cook until eggs are set.
- Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Serve with bread for dipping.
- You can add feta cheese for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 186mg
Keywords: shakshuka recipe, poached eggs, tomato sauce
