Authentic & Simple Shakshuka Recipe
A comforting Middle Eastern brunch favorite made with poached eggs in a spiced tomato and pepper sauce!
If you’re looking for a cozy, one-pan dish that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than Shakshuka! This North African and Middle Eastern classic has taken brunch menus by storm—and for good reason. It’s hearty, healthy, and oh-so-easy to whip up with pantry staples like canned tomatoes, eggs, and a few fragrant spices. Whether you’re enjoying it on a slow weekend morning or serving it as a quick dinner, Shakshuka is always a hit!
Let’s dive into this simple, authentic shakshuka recipe that brings bold flavors and nourishing ingredients to your table in just about 30 minutes!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect homemade shakshuka:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced into small cubes
- 1 mild-to-medium chili pepper, finely chopped (adjust heat to your liking)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small splash of sugar (about 1 tsp, to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 400g (about 14 oz) canned chopped tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons water
- 4 eggs
- A handful of fresh cilantro (coriander leaves), chopped, for garnish
How to Make Shakshuka – Step by Step
1. Sauté the aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion along with the splash of sugar and sauté gently until the onions soften and start to caramelize, about 5-7 minutes. This touch of sugar helps to mellow the acidity and create a richer base.
2. Add garlic, peppers, and chili
Toss in the minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and chopped chili. Sauté for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is soft and fragrant. The peppers should be tender and starting to brown slightly at the edges.
3. Spice it up
Now sprinkle in the salt, cinnamon, and sweet paprika. Give everything a good stir and let the spices bloom in the oil and mix with the vegetables—this step is key for building depth of flavor! Let it cook for another 4–5 minutes.
4. Add tomatoes and simmer
Pour in the chopped tomatoes and 2 tablespoons of water. Stir well and reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, uncovered, until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust salt or spice if needed.
5. Crack in the eggs
With the back of a spoon, make four small wells in the sauce. Carefully crack an egg into each well. Sprinkle the eggs with a tiny pinch of salt.
6. Cover and cook
Cover the pan with a lid and let the eggs cook until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny—about 6-8 minutes. If you prefer firmer yolks, leave them for a couple of minutes longer.
Serving Suggestions
Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, take the pan off the heat. Sprinkle generously with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve your shakshuka hot, right from the pan, with warm crusty bread, pita, or even a side of labneh or feta cheese. It’s a meal that’s perfect for scooping and sharing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Made in under 30 minutes!
- Naturally vegetarian & gluten-free
- Flavorful & nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and bold spices.
- Perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner
Tips & Variations
- Add spinach or kale for extra greens—just stir in during the simmering step.
- Spice lovers: Add a dash of cayenne or harissa for more heat.
- Want it cheesy? Sprinkle feta cheese on top before covering the pan.
- Batch-cook the sauce ahead and add eggs fresh when ready to serve.
Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving, 1 egg each)
Calories: ~210 | Protein: ~10g | Fat: ~15g | Carbs: ~10g
Whether you’re new to Middle Eastern cuisine or a longtime lover of bold, warming dishes, this shakshuka recipe is a true comfort food hero. It’s cozy, deeply satisfying, and just as good for dinner as it is for brunch.
Don’t forget to grab some bread for dipping—you’ll want every last bite of that spiced tomato sauce!
Loved this recipe? Let me know in the comments and don’t forget to pin it or share it with your fellow brunch fans!
Happy cooking and Sahtein!
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