Shakshuka: Spicy Tomato-Poached Eggs – A Brunch Essential 🍳🌶️
Shakshuka is a bold and comforting dish of eggs poached in a spiced tomato and pepper sauce. This North African favorite has become a global brunch essential—and for good reason! It’s vibrant, healthy, and totally satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe 💚
- ✅ One-skillet wonder: Minimal dishes and maximum flavor.
- ✅ Bold, spiced flavors: Perfect blend of cumin, paprika, and chili.
- ✅ Customizable: Add feta, herbs, or greens to make it your own.
🍅 Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp chili flakes (or more to taste)
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4–6 eggs
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: crumbled feta, spinach, or olives
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and bell pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Spice it up: Stir in garlic, cumin, paprika, and chili flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes: Pour in crushed tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
- Make egg wells: Use a spoon to create small wells in the sauce. Gently crack eggs into each well.
- Poach eggs: Cover and cook for 5–8 minutes until egg whites are set but yolks remain runny.
- Finish and serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and optional toppings. Serve hot with crusty bread or pita.
💡 Pro Tips & Variations
- ✨ Add protein: Try chickpeas or ground lamb for extra heartiness.
- ✨ Spice level: Adjust chili flakes to your preference.
- ✨ For brunch guests: Serve in mini cast-iron pans for individual portions.
🌿 Nutritional Benefits
Packed with antioxidants from tomatoes and peppers, plus protein from eggs, this dish is a nutritious and balanced choice to start your day.
🥡 Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- 🧊 Storage: Store leftover sauce in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- ♨️ Reheat: Reheat sauce and crack in fresh eggs to poach just before serving.
- ❄️ Freeze: Tomato base can be frozen for up to 2 months.
❓ FAQ
- Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes, simmer 5–6 chopped tomatoes until soft and juicy before adding spices. - What if I don’t like runny yolks?
Cook covered a bit longer or bake the pan at 375°F for 8–10 minutes. - Is it spicy?
It has a kick! Reduce or omit chili flakes if sensitive to heat.
A Brunch Favorite with Bold Flavor ☀️🍅
Whether you’re serving weekend guests or simply treating yourself, this Shakshuka brings bold, satisfying flavors to your table. Don’t forget the bread for dipping!
