Dive into the rich and vibrant flavors of the Middle East with this fiery Shakshuka. This dish, made of poached eggs in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce, is a hearty and flavorful option for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. With its origins in North Africa, Shakshuka has become a beloved staple across the Middle East and beyond.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 portion
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Cholesterol: 186mg
- Sodium: 450mg
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped (150g)
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped (150g)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (2g)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (2g)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander (1g)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (1g)
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (15g)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 large eggs
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Method of Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, and chili flakes.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the tomato paste.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Simmer the sauce over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Make small wells in the sauce with the back of a spoon.
- Crack an egg into each well, taking care not to break the yolks.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 5-8 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny.
- Remove the skillet from heat.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley.
- Serve immediately with warm crusty bread or pita.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of chili flakes to suit your heat preference.
- Fresh Tomatoes: For a fresher taste, use ripe fresh tomatoes instead of canned.
- Even Cooking: Make sure the sauce is at an even simmer before adding the eggs to ensure they cook evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Shakshuka ahead of time?
- A: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it. Add the eggs just before serving to ensure they are perfectly poached.
Q: What can I serve with Shakshuka?
- A: Shakshuka pairs well with warm bread, pita, or a side of salad. It can also be served with a dollop of yogurt.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to Shakshuka?
- A: Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce for additional flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
Shakshuka is a flavorful and hearty dish that brings the warmth and spices of the Middle East to your table. Its vibrant colors and robust flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any meal of the day. Enjoy this culinary journey with every bite!