A Flavorful Middle Eastern Breakfast You’ll Love
If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful breakfast that’s a little outside the box, then Shakshuka is the dish you need to try. This Middle Eastern favorite is a simple yet incredibly delicious combination of poached eggs cooked in a spiced tomato sauce. It’s perfect for cozy mornings, and it’s sure to impress anyone at your breakfast table.
Why You’ll Love Shakshuka:
- Rich & Flavorful: The warm, spiced tomato sauce combined with perfectly poached eggs creates a satisfying, savory dish that’s full of flavor.
- Customizable: Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or even a sprinkle of cheese, for extra richness.
- Comforting & Filling: Shakshuka is a filling breakfast that’ll keep you energized throughout the day, with the right balance of protein, veggies, and spices.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for spice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 large eggs
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Warm pita or crusty bread (for serving)
Instructions:
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper (if using) and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce:
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Poach the Eggs:
- Use the back of a spoon to create small wells in the sauce. Gently crack the eggs into each well. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the eggs cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny. You can cook them longer if you prefer firmer yolks.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. For added richness, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese (optional).
- Serve the Shakshuka hot with warm pita or crusty bread to dip into the sauce and eggs.
Why This Dish Is a Winner:
Shakshuka isn’t just a breakfast—it’s a comforting, flavorful dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day. The spices in the tomato sauce create a warm, aromatic base for the eggs, which soak up all those delicious flavors. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, Shakshuka is sure to make any meal feel special.
Optional Variations:
- Add spinach or kale for a boost of greens.
- Add ground meat (like lamb or beef) for a more hearty dish.
- Top with avocado slices for extra creaminess.
- Spicy lovers? Add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to heat things up.
Final Thoughts:
If you’ve never tried Shakshuka before, now’s the time to do it. This recipe is quick, customizable, and full of vibrant flavors that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Perfect for a weekend brunch or even a cozy weeknight dinner, Shakshuka is sure to become one of your favorite go-to recipes.