Shakshuka Recipe- Lebanese Special
Shakshuka is a vibrant and savory dish hailing from the Middle East. It consists of eggs poached in a rich, spiced tomato and bell pepper sauce, often seasoned with cumin, paprika, and garlic. The tender eggs and aromatic sauce create a comforting and hearty meal that’s ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. Praised for its robust flavors and simple preparation, Shakshuka is a beloved choice for both everyday dining and special occasions.
- Prep Time10 min
- Cook Time30 min
- Total Time40 min
Shakshuka Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1 small red bell pepper (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
- Optional: crumbled feta cheese (for topping)
- Optional: crusty bread (for serving)
Prepare the Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and red bell pepper, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
Simmer the mixture, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the Eggs:
Create small wells in the sauce using the back of a spoon. Gently crack an egg into each well.
Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still slightly runny. For firmer yolks, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Optionally, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese.
Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce and eggs.
Recipe Note:
Tomatoes: Using canned tomatoes is convenient, but fresh tomatoes can add a brighter flavor. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Eggs: For perfectly cooked eggs, keep the heat low and cover the skillet. If you prefer firmer yolks, cook a bit longer.
Spices: Adjust the spices to your taste. For a milder version, omit the cayenne pepper. For more depth, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce.
Bread: Serve with crusty bread or pita for a complete meal and to soak up the delicious sauce.
Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
