Easy Shakshuka with Poached Eggs

Name: Easy Shakshuka with Poached Eggs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion (chopped); 1 red bell pepper (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (or to taste); 800 grams canned crushed tomatoes; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 4 eggs; 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped); 1 loaf crusty bread (sliced)

40 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Delight in this easy shakshuka, a comforting dish of poached eggs simmered in a spicy tomato sauce, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Prep

10 min

Cook

30 min

Total

40 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Shakshuka is a traditional North African and Middle Eastern dish that has found its way into the hearts of many food lovers around the world. This comforting meal consists of poached eggs nestled in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce, making it an ideal choice for breakfast or brunch. Our easy version of shakshuka simplifies the preparation without sacrificing flavor. The combination of spices, fresh vegetables, and perfectly poached eggs creates a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this shakshuka recipe is approachable and rewarding. Perfect for those who love eggs in a rich, savory sauce, this dish can be customized to your taste preferences, making it as spicy or mild as you like. It's a great way to impress family or friends with a meal that feels both exotic and comforting.

Instructions

Heat the oil

In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Pro tip: Use a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution.

Sauté vegetables

Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to avoid burning.

Add garlic and spices

Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Pro tip: Adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your spice preference.

Prepare the tomato base

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Simmer the sauce

Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes until it thickens.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally and taste for seasoning.

Add the eggs

Make small wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each well. Cover the pan and cook for 5-8 minutes until the eggs are set to your liking.

Pro tip: For firmer yolks, cook the eggs longer.

Garnish and serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the shakshuka and serve immediately with crusty bread.

Pro tip: Add a pinch of extra salt to the eggs if desired.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh tomatoes for a more robust flavour.
Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili flakes.
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is shakshuka?

Shakshuka is a dish of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, popular in North African and Middle Eastern cuisines.

How many calories are in shakshuka?

This shakshuka recipe contains approximately 250 calories per serving.

Can I make shakshuka ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time and reheat it before adding the eggs.

What is the difference between shakshuka and eggs in purgatory?

Shakshuka typically includes more spices and vegetables, while eggs in purgatory is a simpler Italian dish with eggs poached in a basic tomato sauce.

How can I make shakshuka less spicy?

Reduce the amount of chili flakes or omit them entirely for a milder shakshuka.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this easy shakshuka with warm, crusty bread or pita to soak up the flavorful sauce and soft-yolked eggs. It pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some olives on the side for a complete meal. Shakshuka can be made ahead by preparing the sauce in advance and reheating it before poaching the eggs. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to a month. When ready to serve, simply heat the sauce, add the eggs, and enjoy a quick and delightful meal.