Shakshuka Recipe: A Flavorful Middle Eastern Breakfast
Shakshuka is a vibrant and flavorful Middle Eastern dish that features poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce. This delicious recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. The combination of ripe tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and spices creates a rich and savory sauce that pairs perfectly with the soft, runny eggs. Whether you're looking to try something new or recreate a favorite dish, this Shakshuka recipe is sure to impress. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to make this delightful dish, along with tips and variations to make it your own.
Equipment
- Large Skillet: For cooking the tomato sauce and poaching the eggs.
- Mixing Spoon: To stir and mix the ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure out the ingredients accurately.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the vegetables.
- Lid: To cover the skillet while poaching the eggs.
- Serving Utensils: For serving the Shakshuka.
Ingredients
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons.
- Onion: 1 medium onion finely chopped.
- Bell Pepper: 1 red bell pepper chopped.
- Garlic: 3 cloves garlic minced.
- Tomatoes: 5-6 ripe tomatoes chopped, or 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes.
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons.
- Spices: 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground paprika, 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional).
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Eggs: 6 large eggs.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish.
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the chopped tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes), tomato paste, ground cumin, ground paprika, and ground cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
- Poach the Eggs: Make small wells in the sauce and crack the eggs into each well. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-8 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve the Shakshuka hot with crusty bread or pita for dipping.
Notes
By incorporating these tips and variations, you can take your Shakshuka recipe to the next level and create a dish that's both delicious and impressive. Enjoy!
Use Fresh Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes will provide the best flavor for the sauce.
Don't Overcook the Eggs: Keep an eye on the eggs while they cook to ensure they remain soft and runny.
Serve with Bread: Shakshuka is best enjoyed with crusty bread or pita for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
Use Fresh Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes will provide the best flavor for the sauce.
Don't Overcook the Eggs: Keep an eye on the eggs while they cook to ensure they remain soft and runny.
Serve with Bread: Shakshuka is best enjoyed with crusty bread or pita for dipping into the flavorful sauce.