Name: Easy Shakshuka Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large yellow onion; 1 large red bell pepper; ¼ tsp fine sea salt; 3 cloves garlic; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp smoked paprika; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes; 28 oz crushed tomatoes; 2 tbsp fresh cilantro; ground black pepper; 6 large eggs; ½ cup crumbled feta; Crusty bread or pita

Shakshuka is a delightful and hearty Middle Eastern dish that combines poached eggs with a flavorful tomato and pepper sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, offering a savory and slightly spicy experience that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or pita.

Photos of Easy Shakshuka Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you might need to pick up some smoked paprika and feta if they are not commonly stocked in your pantry. Smoked paprika adds a unique depth of flavor, while feta provides a creamy and tangy contrast to the rich tomato sauce. Ensure you have these key ingredients for an authentic shakshuka experience.

Ingredients For Easy Shakshuka Recipe

Olive oil: Provides a rich and smooth base for sautéing the vegetables.

Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.

Red bell pepper: Brings a subtle sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.

Fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors in the shakshuka.

Garlic: Adds a fragrant and spicy undertone to the sauce.

Tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.

Ground cumin: Imparts a warm, earthy flavor key to many Middle Eastern dishes.

Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly spicy flavor that elevates the dish.

Red pepper flakes: Introduces a bit of heat to balance the sweetness of the tomatoes and peppers.

Crushed tomatoes: Forms the base of the sauce, providing a rich and hearty texture.

Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal note to the finished dish.

Ground black pepper: Adds a touch of sharp spiciness.

Eggs: Poached directly in the sauce, they bring richness and protein.

Feta: Crumbled on top, it adds a creamy, tangy finish.

Crusty bread or pita: Perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce.

One reader, Didi Kovacs says:

This easy shakshuka recipe is a game-changer! The flavors meld beautifully, and the dish is both hearty and healthy. Perfect for brunch or a cozy dinner. The feta adds a delightful tang, and the crusty bread is a must for soaking up every last bit. Highly recommend!

Didi Kovacs

Techniques Required for Making Shakshuka

How to preheat the oven: Set the oven to the desired temperature (375 degrees F in this case) and allow it to reach that temperature before placing any food inside.

How to warm oil in a skillet: Pour the olive oil into a large, oven-safe skillet and place it over medium heat until the oil starts to shimmer, indicating it is hot enough.

How to cook onions and bell peppers: Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the heated oil, sprinkle with salt, and cook while stirring often until the onions become tender and translucent.

How to add and cook garlic and spices: Add minced garlic, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant.

How to simmer crushed tomatoes: Pour the crushed tomatoes and their juices into the skillet, add cilantro, stir, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes.

How to crack eggs into a skillet: Use the back of a spoon to make wells in the tomato mixture near the perimeter of the skillet. Crack an egg into each well and gently spoon some of the tomato mixture over the egg whites to help contain them.

How to bake eggs in the oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 12 minutes, checking often after 8 minutes. The dish is ready when the egg whites are opaque and the yolks are no longer runny.

How to transfer a hot skillet: Carefully move the hot skillet from the oven to a heat-safe surface, such as the stove.

How to serve shakshuka: Top the dish with crumbled feta, fresh cilantro leaves, and additional red pepper flakes. Serve in bowls with crusty bread on the side.

How To Make Easy Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a popular Ottoman dish with poached eggs mixed together with tomatoes, herbs, and topped with a rich and thick tomato sauce. Serve it with pita.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbspolive oil
1largeyellow onionchopped
1largered bell pepperchopped
¼tspfine sea salt
3cloves garlicpressed or minced
2tbsptomato paste
1tspground cumin
½tspsmoked paprika
¼tspred pepper flakes
28ozcrushed tomatoesfire-roasted
2tbspfresh cilantrochopped
ground black pepperto taste
6largeeggs
½cupcrumbled feta
Crusty bread or pitafor serving

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Warm the oil in a large, oven-safe skillet (preferably stainless steel) over medium heat.
Once shimmering, add the onion, bell pepper, and salt. Cook, stirring often, until the onions are tender and turning translucent, about 4 to 6 minutes.
Add the garlic, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring constantly, until nice and fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes with their juices and add the cilantro. Stir, and let the mixture come to a simmer. Reduce the heat as necessary to maintain a gentle simmer, and cook for 5 minutes to give the flavors time to meld.
Turn off the heat. Taste and add salt and pepper as necessary. Use the back of a spoon to make a well near the perimeter and crack the egg directly into it.
Gently spoon a bit of the tomato mixture over the whites to help contain the egg. Repeat with the remaining 4 to 5 eggs, depending on how many you can fit. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper over the eggs.
Carefully transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 8 to 12 minutes, checking often once you reach 8 minutes. It should be done once the egg whites are opaque and yolks are no longer runny.
Transfer the hot skillet to a heat-safe surface like the stove. Top with the crumbled feta, fresh cilantro leaves, and more red pepper flakes.
Serve in bowls with crusty bread on the side.

Nutrition

Calories: 215.69kcal
Fat: 12.56g
Saturated Fat: 4.15g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.81g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.72g
Carbohydrates: 16.79g
Fiber: 4.08g
Sugar: 9.44g
Protein: 11.28g
Cholesterol: 197.13mg
Sodium: 574.22mg
Calcium: 154.40mg
Potassium: 642.03mg
Iron: 3.41mg
Vitamin A: 163.85µg
Vitamin C: 50.69mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Shakshuka

When making shakshuka, it's crucial to cook the onions and bell pepper until they are tender and translucent before adding the garlic and spices. This ensures that the vegetables are fully softened and their flavors are well-developed, providing a rich base for the tomato mixture.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Shakshuka

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop the onion, bell pepper, and garlic ahead of time and store them in airtight containers.

Use pre-crushed tomatoes: Opt for canned crushed tomatoes to save time on peeling and crushing fresh ones.

Measure spices beforehand: Pre-measure the cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes and keep them ready to add.

One-pan method: Use an oven-safe skillet to cook everything from start to finish, minimizing cleanup.

Quick garnish: Have the feta and cilantro ready to sprinkle as soon as the dish is out of the oven.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Shakshuka Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a similar texture and slightly milder flavor.
red bell pepper - Substitute with green bell pepper: Green bell peppers provide a similar texture and a slightly more bitter taste.
fine sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar flavor profile and can be used in the same quantity.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 tsp of garlic powder for each clove of garlic to achieve a similar flavor.
tomato paste - Substitute with ketchup: Ketchup can provide a similar sweetness and thickness, though it is slightly sweeter.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander offers a similar earthy flavor, though it is slightly sweeter.
smoked paprika - Substitute with regular paprika: Regular paprika provides a similar color and flavor, though it lacks the smokiness.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Use a smaller amount of cayenne pepper to achieve a similar level of heat.
crushed tomatoes - Substitute with diced tomatoes: Diced tomatoes can provide a similar texture and flavor, though they may be slightly chunkier.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley offers a similar fresh, herbaceous flavor.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar level of heat and flavor.
eggs - Substitute with tofu: Crumbled tofu can mimic the texture of eggs and absorb the flavors of the dish.
crumbled feta - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese offers a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
crusty bread - Substitute with naan: Naan provides a similar chewy texture and can be used to scoop up the shakshuka.

How to Beautifully Present Shakshuka

Use a shallow, wide-rimmed bowl: This allows the vibrant colors of the shakshuka to be the star of the presentation, giving it a rustic yet elegant look.
Create a base layer: Spread a thin layer of the tomato mixture evenly across the bottom of the bowl, ensuring the eggs are nestled in the sauce.
Position the eggs strategically: Place the eggs in a circular pattern, ensuring they are evenly spaced. This creates a visually appealing symmetry.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro leaves over the top, adding a pop of green that contrasts beautifully with the red tomato sauce.
Add a touch of cheese: Crumble feta cheese over the dish, focusing on the areas around the eggs to highlight their position and add a creamy texture.
Drizzle with olive oil: Finish with a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil to add a glossy sheen and enhance the flavors.
Serve with artisanal bread: Place a piece of crusty bread or pita on the side, slightly overlapping the edge of the bowl for an inviting touch.
Add a hint of spice: Sprinkle a few extra red pepper flakes on top for a subtle hint of heat and a touch of color.
Use a clean, white napkin: Fold a white napkin neatly and place it under the bowl to frame the dish and keep the presentation clean and sophisticated.

Essential Tools for Making Shakshuka

Oven: Used to bake the shakshuka and ensure the eggs are cooked to the desired consistency.
Large oven-safe skillet: Preferably stainless steel, this is used to cook the shakshuka on the stovetop and then transfer it to the oven.
Stove: Used to heat the skillet and cook the vegetables and spices before baking.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the onions, bell pepper, and other ingredients without scratching the skillet.
Knife: Essential for chopping the onion, bell pepper, and cilantro.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and herbs.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil, salt, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, and red pepper flakes accurately.
Can opener: Necessary for opening the can of crushed tomatoes.
Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the skillet and ensuring all ingredients are well mixed.
Spoon: Used to make wells in the tomato mixture for the eggs and to spoon tomato mixture over the egg whites.
Heat-safe surface: Needed to place the hot skillet after it comes out of the oven.
Bowls: For serving the shakshuka.
Bread knife: To slice the crusty bread or pita for serving.

Storing and Freezing Shakshuka: A Guide

Let the shakshuka cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled shakshuka to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
When ready to reheat, warm the shakshuka in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, or until warmed to your liking.
To freeze, transfer the cooled shakshuka to a freezer-safe container or divide it into individual portions in freezer-safe bags. Label the container or bags with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen shakshuka, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then, warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave individual portions until heated through.
Keep in mind that the texture of the eggs may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavor of the dish will still be delicious.
If you plan on freezing the shakshuka, you might want to consider slightly undercooking the egg yolks to prevent them from becoming rubbery when reheated.

How To Reheat Shakshuka Leftovers

To reheat leftover shakshuka in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the shakshuka to an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
For a quicker option, reheat your shakshuka in the microwave. Place a portion of the shakshuka in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Stir the shakshuka halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you prefer a stovetop method, reheat your shakshuka in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or tomato sauce to the pan to prevent the shakshuka from drying out. Stir occasionally and heat until the shakshuka is warmed through and the eggs are cooked to your liking.
For a crispy twist, reheat your shakshuka in a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan. Preheat the skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of olive oil, and then add the leftover shakshuka. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shakshuka is heated through and the bottom develops a slight crispiness.
If you have a lot of leftover shakshuka, consider transforming it into a new dish. Serve the reheated shakshuka over a bed of cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous for a heartier meal. You can also use the leftover shakshuka as a filling for omelets, wraps, or sandwiches.

Interesting Fact About Shakshuka

A random fact about this recipe is that shakshuka is a traditional North African and Middle Eastern dish that typically features eggs poached in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce.

Is Making Shakshuka at Home Cost-Effective?

Analyzing the cost-effectiveness of this shakshuka recipe, it scores a solid 8 out of 10. The primary ingredients like olive oil, onion, bell pepper, garlic, and crushed tomatoes are relatively inexpensive and commonly found in most kitchens. The eggs and feta add a bit to the cost but are still affordable. Fresh cilantro and crusty bread or pita are also budget-friendly. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $12-$15 USD, making it a cost-effective and delicious option for a hearty meal.

Is Shakshuka Healthy or Unhealthy?

This shakshuka recipe is relatively healthy, as it includes a variety of nutritious ingredients such as vegetables, herbs, and eggs. The dish is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a well-rounded meal. However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make it even healthier:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of olive oil, which is high in calories. While olive oil is a healthy fat, it's important to use it in moderation.
Feta cheese is used as a topping, which can add extra saturated fat and sodium to the dish.
The crusty bread or pita served on the side may be high in carbohydrates and calories, depending on the type and amount consumed.

To make this shakshuka recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe, or opt for a lighter cooking spray to minimize added calories.
Use a reduced-fat feta cheese or omit it altogether to lower the saturated fat and sodium content.
Serve the shakshuka with whole-grain bread or pita to increase the fiber content and provide a more nutrient-dense option.
Add more vegetables to the dish, such as spinach, kale, or zucchini, to boost the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content.
Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes to reduce the amount of added sodium in the recipe.

Editor's Opinion on This Shakshuka Recipe

This shakshuka recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch. The combination of onions, bell peppers, and spices creates a rich, aromatic base, while the eggs add a creamy, satisfying element. Baking the dish in the oven ensures perfectly cooked eggs with set whites and runny yolks. The addition of crumbled feta and fresh cilantro provides a tangy and fresh finish. Serving it with crusty bread or pita makes it a complete and comforting meal. Overall, it's a simple yet impressive dish that is sure to please.

Enhance Your Easy Shakshuka Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetable Medley: Elevate your shakshuka experience with a vibrant roasted vegetable medley. Imagine a colorful array of carrots, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, all caramelized to perfection. The natural sweetness and slight char from the roasting process will complement the savory, spiced tomato sauce beautifully.

Herbed Couscous: Add a touch of the Mediterranean to your meal with herbed couscous. Fluffy couscous grains infused with fresh parsley, mint, and a hint of lemon zest create a light and refreshing side that pairs wonderfully with the rich, hearty flavors of shakshuka.

Garlic Yogurt Sauce: For a creamy, tangy contrast, whip up a garlic yogurt sauce. This cool, refreshing dip made from Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice will add a delightful zing to each bite of your shakshuka. Drizzle it over the top or serve it on the side for dipping your crusty bread.

Spiced Chickpea Salad: Introduce a crunchy, protein-packed element with a spiced chickpea salad. Toss chickpeas with cumin, coriander, and a touch of cayenne pepper, then mix with fresh cucumber, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. This salad offers a refreshing and slightly spicy counterpoint to the warm, comforting shakshuka.

Minted Fruit Salad: Finish your meal on a sweet and refreshing note with a minted fruit salad. Combine juicy watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew with a handful of fresh mint leaves. The burst of fruity flavors and the cooling mint will cleanse your palate and provide a delightful end to your shakshuka feast.

Delicious Alternatives to Shakshuka

Spicy Chickpea Stew: Dive into a hearty stew featuring tender chickpeas, tomatoes, and a blend of warming spices. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or pita.

Mediterranean Baked Eggs: Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this delightful dish of baked eggs nestled in a savory tomato and bell pepper sauce, topped with feta and fresh herbs.

Moroccan Vegetable Tagine: Transport your taste buds to Morocco with a vibrant tagine loaded with seasonal vegetables, dried fruits, and aromatic spices. Serve it over fluffy couscous for a complete meal.

Huevos Rancheros: Savor a classic Mexican breakfast with huevos rancheros, featuring eggs served on tortillas with a zesty tomato and chili sauce, topped with avocado and cilantro.

Italian Caponata: Indulge in a traditional Sicilian caponata, a sweet and sour eggplant dish with tomatoes, olives, and capers. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as a side, a topping for bruschetta, or even as a main course.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Shakshuka

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine a platter of stuffed mushrooms filled with a savory blend of breadcrumbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. These bite-sized delights are baked until golden and crispy on top, with a juicy, tender mushroom base. The filling is enhanced with a touch of lemon zest and fresh herbs, making each bite a burst of flavor. Perfect for a gathering, these mushrooms are both elegant and easy to prepare, offering a delightful start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Picture a tray of bruschetta featuring toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella pearls. Drizzled with a balsamic reduction and a hint of olive oil, each piece is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The crisp bread contrasts beautifully with the juicy tomatoes and creamy cheese, while the basil adds a fresh, aromatic note. This appetizer is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for showcasing the best of simple, fresh ingredients.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a decadent dessert that combines the richness of dark chocolate with a molten center that oozes out as you cut into it. This chocolate lava cake is perfect for those who crave an indulgent treat. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast between the hot, gooey center and the cold, creamy topping creates a sensory delight that will leave your guests in awe. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries for a touch of elegance.

Tiramisu: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic tiramisu. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers are interspersed with a luscious mascarpone cream, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The cocoa powder dusted on top adds a slight bitterness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cream. For an added twist, consider incorporating a hint of coffee liqueur or amaretto into the mix. Serve chilled and garnish with a few chocolate shavings or a sprig of mint to elevate the presentation.

Why trust this Easy Shakshuka Recipe:

This shakshuka recipe is a tried-and-true favorite, perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. The combination of crushed tomatoes, bell pepper, and spices creates a rich, flavorful base. Baking the eggs in the sauce ensures they are perfectly cooked, while the addition of feta and cilantro adds a delightful finishing touch. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal. Trust this recipe for its simplicity and delicious results.

Share your thoughts on this easy shakshuka recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to suggest!

FAQ:

Can I make shakshuka ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the tomato base ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to eat, just reheat the base in a skillet, add the eggs, and bake as directed.

What can I use instead of cilantro?

If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can use fresh parsley or basil as a substitute. Both will add a nice fresh flavor to the dish.

Can I make this dish without an oven-safe skillet?

If you don't have an oven-safe skillet, you can cook the tomato base on the stovetop, then transfer it to a baking dish before adding the eggs and baking.

How do I know when the eggs are done?

The eggs are done when the whites are opaque and the yolks are set to your liking. I recommend checking them often after the 8-minute mark to make sure they don't overcook.

Can I add other vegetables to the shakshuka?

Absolutely! You can add veggies like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them with the onions and bell pepper to ensure they're cooked through.