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–+ servings

Shakshuka - Traditional Middle Eastern Egg Dish

Shakshuka is a vibrant Middle Eastern dish featuring poached eggs in a spiced tomato and bell pepper sauce. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, it’s served with crusty bread for a flavorful, comforting meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine Middle Eastern
Servings 4 Portions
Calories 280 kcal

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 210mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 10mg

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Knife and cutting board

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 1 piece red bell pepper diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp chili flakes optional
  • 400 g diced tomatoes canned
  • 0.25 cup tomato paste
  • 1 tsp sugar optional, to balance acidity
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Shakshuka

  • 6 large eggs
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro chopped, for garnish
  • Feta cheese crumbled, optional
  • Crusty bread or pita for serving
Shakshuka - Traditional Middle Eastern Egg Dish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Base

  • Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  • Stir in the bell pepper and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.

Spice it Up

  • Add minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili flakes (if using).
  • Sauté the mixture for 1–2 minutes, or until fragrant.

Create the Sauce

  • Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
  • Add sugar (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
  • Simmer the sauce for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Poach the Eggs

  • Use a spoon to make small wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each well.
  • Cover the skillet and let the eggs cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny.

Garnish and Serve

  • Sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro and crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
  • Serve hot with crusty bread or pita for dipping.

Tips and Variations

For a spicier Shakshuka, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a dollop of harissa. To make the sauce ahead of time, store it in the fridge and reheat before adding the eggs. This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh orange juice or mint tea.
Keyword eggs, one-pan meal, shakshuka, tomato sauce
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