Spice Up Your Breakfast: How to Make Shakshuka

What is Shakshuka?

Shakshuka is a popular Middle Eastern and North African dish made with eggs poached in a savory, spiced tomato sauce. It typically includes ingredients like tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and aromatic spices like cumin and paprika. The eggs are cooked right in the sauce, giving a rich, comforting flavor that pairs perfectly with crusty bread for dipping. Shakshuka is hearty, flavorful, and great for breakfast, brunch, or any meal.

Shakshuka Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp ground chili powder

• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes (or 4 fresh tomatoes, diced)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 4 large eggs

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

• Bread (to serve)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they soften.

2. Add the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder to the skillet. Cook for another 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spices are fragrant.

3. Pour in the diced tomatoes, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well, then let the mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes, until it thickens slightly.

4. Make small wells in the tomato mixture, and crack an egg into each well. Cover the skillet and cook for 5–8 minutes, or until the eggs are set to your desired doneness.

5. Garnish with fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese, if desired. Serve hot with bread for dipping.

Enjoy making and sharing this vibrant dish!