Shakshuka is a vibrant, comforting dish of eggs poached in a spicy, fragrant tomato and pepper sauce, popular across North Africa and the Middle East. This one-pan meal is celebrated for its bold flavors, simplicity, and versatility. Each bite offers a perfect balance of rich tomato, smoky spices, and creamy egg yolks, making it a breakfast, brunch, or even light dinner favorite.

The beauty of shakshuka lies in its simplicity: fresh ingredients, warming spices, and eggs cooked directly in the sauce. It’s both healthy and filling, offering protein, vegetables, and fiber in a colorful, aromatic dish that’s perfect for sharing with family or friends.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Shakshuka because it transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful and comforting meal. The combination of caramelized onions, garlic, peppers, and spices creates a deeply aromatic sauce, while the eggs poached directly in it add richness and creaminess.

It’s visually stunning, with eggs nestled in a vibrant red sauce, making it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Shakshuka is a must-try because it’s a celebration of flavor, nutrition, and simplicity. This dish is hearty yet healthy, vegetarian-friendly, and packed with protein, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.

It’s also a versatile recipe: serve it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with bread, pita, or grains. The comforting combination of spicy tomato sauce and runny eggs makes it an unforgettable dish that elevates any meal occasion.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 2–3
• Calories: ~280 kcal per serving
• Course: Breakfast / Brunch / Light Dinner
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern / North African

Ingredients

For the Shakshuka

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Optional: crumbled feta cheese for garnish

For Serving

• Warm pita bread, crusty bread, or rice

Cooking Directions

1. Sauté vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and red peppers; cook 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add spices: Stir in cumin, paprika, coriander, and cayenne. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add tomatoes: Pour in crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Poach eggs: Make small wells in the sauce and carefully crack eggs into each well. Cover the pan and cook 5–7 minutes until eggs are set but yolks remain runny.
5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro and optional feta cheese. Serve hot with bread or rice.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Base

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Sauté onions and bell peppers for 5–6 minutes until softened.
• Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.

Step 2: Add Spices

• Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, and cayenne.
• Cook 1 minute until spices release their aroma.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

• Pour in crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper.
• Simmer 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Poach the Eggs

• Make 4 small wells in the sauce.
• Crack eggs into the wells.
• Cover the skillet and cook 5–7 minutes until whites are set but yolks remain runny.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro.
• Add crumbled feta if desired.
• Serve immediately with warm bread, pita, or rice.

How to Serve

Serve shakshuka straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation. Pair it with:

• Crusty bread or pita for dipping
• A side of olives or yogurt
• Fresh salad for a complete meal

Garnish with herbs and feta for added flavor and a vibrant look.

Recipe Tips

• Control spice level: Adjust cayenne or add chili flakes to suit your preference.
• Eggs: For firmer yolks, cook 1–2 minutes longer.
• Sauce consistency: If too thick, add a splash of water or stock.
• One-pan cleanup: Use a nonstick or cast-iron skillet for easiest cooking and serving.
• Fresh herbs: Add just before serving for best flavor and color.

Variations

• Cheesy Shakshuka: Sprinkle crumbled feta or shredded cheese over the eggs.
• Green Shakshuka: Use spinach, kale, or zucchini instead of tomatoes.
• Spicy Shakshuka: Add harissa paste or chopped chili peppers.
• Meaty Shakshuka: Add sausage, chorizo, or ground beef for extra protein.
• Vegan Version: Use tofu “eggs” or omit eggs, adding chickpeas for protein.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftover tomato sauce (without eggs) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Tomato base can be frozen up to 3 months. Poached eggs do not freeze well.
• Reheating: Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop, then add freshly poached eggs when ready to serve.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or frying pan with a lid
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Small bowl for cracking eggs
• Knife and cutting board

FAQ

Q: Can I make shakshuka ahead?
A: Prepare the tomato sauce in advance; poach eggs just before serving.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes, about 4–5 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped.

Q: Can I make it spicier?
A: Add extra cayenne, chili flakes, or harissa paste.

Q: How do I know eggs are done?
A: Whites should be set, yolks slightly runny. Covering the skillet helps cook evenly.

Q: Can I use a nonstick skillet?
A: Yes, it’s ideal for easy cooking and cleaning.

Conclusion

Shakshuka – Poached Eggs in Spicy Tomato Sauce is a hearty, flavorful, and visually stunning dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. With a rich, spiced tomato base, tender poached eggs, and fresh herbs, it delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors in one pan.

It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and packed with nutrients, making it a must-try dish for anyone looking to elevate their brunch experience. Serve with bread or pita, and enjoy the comforting, aromatic flavors of this Middle Eastern classic.