Shakshuka is a hearty and flavorful dish made with perfectly poached eggs in a spiced tomato and bell pepper sauce. This one-pan meal brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your breakfast or brunch table with its bold flavors and warm, comforting aroma.
The beauty of shakshuka lies in its simplicity and versatility—serve it with crusty bread for dipping or customize it with your favorite toppings like avocado or extra feta. Whether you enjoy it for a weekend brunch or a quick weekday dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- Warm crusty bread, for serving
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Make two small wells in the tomato sauce and carefully crack an egg into each well. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with crumbled feta, fresh parsley, and cilantro.
- Serve immediately with warm crusty bread for dipping.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 2
History and Origin of Shakshuka
Shakshuka is a beloved dish with roots in North Africa and the Middle East, particularly in Tunisia, Libya, Algeria, and Morocco. The word “shakshuka” comes from Arabic and roughly translates to “a mixture”—a fitting name for this flavorful blend of spiced tomato sauce and poached eggs. The dish was introduced to Israel by North African Jewish immigrants in the mid-20th century and has since become a staple in Israeli cuisine, commonly served as a hearty breakfast or brunch.
Some food historians believe shakshuka shares similarities with Ottoman and Andalusian dishes that feature eggs cooked in tomato-based sauces. Over time, it evolved into a one-pan meal that is now enjoyed worldwide, thanks to its comforting and nutritious nature.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: This one-pan dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a fuss-free meal.
- Rich in Flavor: A combination of cumin, paprika, coriander, and garlic gives shakshuka its deep, savory taste.
- Nutritious & Filling: Packed with protein from eggs, vitamins from tomatoes and bell peppers, and healthy fats from olive oil, this meal is both wholesome and satisfying.
- Versatile & Customizable: You can easily modify shakshuka by adding spices, meats, or extra veggies to suit your taste preferences.
Cooking Tips & Variations
- Make It Spicier: If you enjoy heat, add chopped fresh chili peppers or increase the red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Enhance the Flavor: Stir in a teaspoon of harissa paste or ground cinnamon for a more complex taste.
- Add More Protein: You can include chickpeas, feta cheese, or even sliced sausage to make the dish heartier.
- Try Different Greens: Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard can be added for extra nutrients and texture.
- Oven-Baked Variation: For a different approach, once you crack the eggs into the sauce, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to gently bake the eggs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make shakshuka ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the tomato sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, crack in the eggs, and cook as instructed.
Q: Is shakshuka keto-friendly?
A: Yes! The dish is low in carbs, making it a great option for a keto diet if served without bread.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Absolutely! Simply skip the eggs and replace them with tofu or chickpeas for a protein-rich, plant-based version.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover shakshuka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Nutritional Benefits of Shakshuka
Shakshuka is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great meal choice for a balanced diet.
- Eggs: A great source of high-quality protein, vitamins (B12, D, and choline), and healthy fats for brain and muscle function.
- Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which is known for its heart-health benefits.
- Bell Peppers: A great source of vitamin C and fiber, which help boost immunity and digestion.
- Olive Oil: Contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which support overall well-being.
- Spices (Cumin, Paprika, and Coriander): Help with digestion and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Together, these ingredients create a nutrient-dense dish that is low in carbs, high in protein, and packed with vitamins and minerals.
Shakshuka Cooking Tips & Variations
Cooking Tips for the Best Shakshuka
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Skillet – A cast-iron or stainless steel pan ensures even cooking and enhances the flavor of the sauce.
- Sauté the Spices First – Cooking the garlic, cumin, paprika, and coriander in olive oil for a few seconds helps release their full aroma and flavor.
- Simmer the Sauce Before Adding Eggs – Let the tomato sauce thicken before adding the eggs so they can gently poach without becoming watery.
- Cover the Pan for Even Cooking – This helps the eggs cook evenly while keeping the yolks soft and runny.
- Adjust the Spices to Taste – If you prefer a spicier version, add red pepper flakes, fresh chilies, or harissa paste.
Popular Shakshuka Variations
- Cheesy Shakshuka – Sprinkle mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese over the eggs for extra richness.
- Green Shakshuka – Replace the tomatoes with spinach, kale, and zucchini, creating a herbaceous and fresh twist.
- Meaty Shakshuka – Add spiced ground lamb, sausage, or shredded chicken to make it heartier.
- Vegan Shakshuka – Swap eggs for tofu or chickpeas for a completely plant-based meal.
- Harissa Shakshuka – Stir in harissa paste for a smoky, spicy kick.
- Middle Eastern Shakshuka – Serve with hummus, labneh (strained yogurt), or tahini drizzle for added depth.
How to Serve Shakshuka
Shakshuka is best enjoyed straight from the pan, making it a perfect one-pan meal for two. Here are some great serving suggestions:
✔ With Bread – Serve with crusty bread, pita, or naan to scoop up the sauce.
✔ With Rice or Couscous – Pairs well with fluffy basmati rice or spiced couscous.
✔ With Avocado or Yogurt – A creamy contrast to the bold tomato flavors.
✔ As a Side Dish – Complements grilled meats, falafel, or roasted vegetables.
Shakshuka – A Perfect Anytime Meal
This simple, flavorful dish is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. With minimal ingredients, bold spices, and endless variations, shakshuka is a must-try meal for anyone looking for a quick and nourishing dish. Whether you make it classic, spicy, or with extra toppings, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite!
Conclusion
Shakshuka is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together rich spices, tomatoes, and perfectly poached eggs in one pan. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick dinner. Whether you enjoy it with crusty bread or add your own twist, this comforting meal is sure to become a favorite!