Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Indulge in the rich and exotic flavors of our Classic Shakshuka. This Mediterranean delight boasts a vibrant tomato and bell pepper sauce, perfectly poached eggs, and a harmonious blend of spices that will transport your taste buds to far-off lands. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that’s as suitable for brunch as it is for a cozy dinner. Customize it with your favorite herbs and toppings for a Shakshuka that’s uniquely yours. Elevate your culinary journey with this timeless recipe.
Shakshuka: A Flavorful Journey into the Classic Mediterranean Delight
Table of contents
We’re diving into the rich and flavorful world of Shakshuka, a classic Mediterranean recipe that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts worldwide. In this post, we’ll explore the history of this beloved dish, provide you with an authentic recipe, list the essential kitchen tools you’ll need, share tips for recipe success, and suggest various ways to customize it to your liking. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, Shakshuka is a dish that will never disappoint. Let’s get started!
History of Shakshuka
Before we get into the kitchen, let’s take a moment to appreciate the history of Shakshuka. This hearty dish has its roots in North Africa, particularly Tunisia. Over time, it has made its way into Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, each region adding its own unique twist to the recipe. Shakshuka’s name is believed to be derived from the Arabic word “shakshek,” which means “to shake” or “to mix.” It’s a fitting name for a dish that combines the rich flavors of tomatoes, peppers, spices, and perfectly poached eggs.
Classic Shakshuka Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes, see notes for fresh tomatoes substitution
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4-6 large eggs
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add diced red bell pepper and minced garlic. Continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes, until the peppers are slightly softened.
- Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
- Make small wells in the sauce and crack the eggs into them. Cover the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set, but the yolks are still runny.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite crusty bread or pita.
How many cups of fresh tomatoes would you use if you want to use fresh tomatoes?
To substitute fresh tomatoes for canned crushed tomatoes in the Shakshuka recipe, you’ll need approximately 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes, which is roughly equivalent to 4 cups of diced or chopped fresh tomatoes.
Here’s how you can prepare the fresh tomatoes for your Shakshuka:
- Wash and core the tomatoes.
- Dice or chop them into small pieces, removing the seeds if desired.
- Use the prepared fresh tomatoes in place of the canned crushed tomatoes in the recipe.
Keep in mind that the flavor and consistency of the Shakshuka sauce may vary slightly when using fresh tomatoes compared to canned ones, but it will still be delicious!
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, make sure you have these essential kitchen tools on hand:
- Large skillet with a lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chopping board and knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Can opener
Tips for Recipe Success
- Use the freshest ingredients possible, especially when it comes to eggs and tomatoes, to enhance the flavors of your Shakshuka.
- Adjust the level of spiciness to your liking by varying the amount of cayenne pepper.
- Don’t skip the lid when cooking the eggs. It helps to cook them evenly without overcooking the yolks.
Customize and Variations
Shakshuka is highly customizable. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Add crumbled feta cheese for a creamy and tangy twist.
- Toss in some spinach or kale for extra greens and nutrition.
- Experiment with different spices and herbs, like coriander, cumin seeds, or cilantro, to create unique flavor profiles.
Diet and Lifestyles
Shakshuka is a versatile dish that adheres to various diets and lifestyles, including:
- Vegetarian: It’s a plant-based delight loaded with veggies and eggs.
- Gluten-Free: Shakshuka is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Low-Carb: Skip the bread and enjoy a low-carb version of Shakshuka.
Suggested Occasions
Shakshuka is perfect for serving on a variety of occasions, including:
- Brunch: Impress your brunch guests with this flavorful and visually stunning dish.
- Weekend Breakfast: Treat yourself to a cozy breakfast on a lazy Sunday morning.
- Dinner Parties: Shakshuka can be an excellent main course for a Mediterranean-themed dinner party.
Is this recipe served for certain holidays?
While Classic Shakshuka may not be associated with specific holidays like some other dishes, it is a versatile and flavorful option that can be enjoyed on a variety of occasions. Some people choose to serve Shakshuka on holidays like Easter, Mother’s Day, or Father’s Day when brunch gatherings are common. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors make it an attractive and satisfying choice for special occasions.
Shakshuka can be a delightful addition to holiday brunch spreads, potluck dinners, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a unique and delicious dish. So, while it may not have a traditional holiday association, it can certainly be a part of your holiday celebrations if you wish!
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Meal Ideas
If you can’t get enough of Shakshuka, here are some meal ideas and recipes to explore:
- Shakshuka and Avocado Toast: Serve Shakshuka alongside creamy avocado toast for a well-rounded breakfast or brunch.
- Shakshuka with Couscous: Pair it with couscous for a hearty and satisfying dinner.
- Shakshuka Wrap: Fill a tortilla with Shakshuka, add some greens, and wrap it up for a delicious handheld meal.
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Final Thoughts
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, and/or your family, or hosting a gathering, this Mediterranean delight is sure to impress. Enjoy the flavors, savor the history, and make Shakshuka your own. Bon appétit!
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Shakshuka
Indulge in the rich and exotic flavors of our Classic Shakshuka. This Mediterranean delight boasts a vibrant tomato and bell pepper sauce, perfectly poached eggs, and a harmonious blend of spices that will transport your taste buds to far-off lands. It's a hearty, satisfying dish that's as suitable for brunch as it is for a cozy dinner. Customize it with your favorite herbs and toppings for a Shakshuka that's uniquely yours. Elevate your culinary journey with this timeless recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons regular olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes, see notes for fresh tomatoes substitution
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4-6 large eggs
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add diced red bell pepper and minced garlic. Continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes, until the peppers are slightly softened.
- Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
- Make small wells in the sauce and crack the eggs into them. Cover the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set, but the yolks are still runny.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite crusty bread or pita.
Notes
HOW MANY CUPS OF FRESH TOMATOES WOULD YOU USE IF YOU WANT TO USE FRESH TOMATOES?
To substitute fresh tomatoes for canned crushed tomatoes in the Shakshuka recipe, you’ll need approximately 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes, which is roughly equivalent to 4 cups of diced or chopped fresh tomatoes.
Here’s how you can prepare the fresh tomatoes for your Shakshuka:
- Wash and core the tomatoes.
- Dice or chop them into small pieces, removing the seeds if desired.
- Use the prepared fresh tomatoes in place of the canned crushed tomatoes in the recipe.
Keep in mind that the flavor and consistency of the Shakshuka sauce may vary slightly when using fresh tomatoes compared to canned ones, but it will still be delicious!
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 203Total Fat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 279mgSodium: 187mgCarbohydrates: 9gFiber: 2gSugar: 4gProtein: 11g
Please note that the Calculated Nutrition is an estimate at best. If you make this recipe and love it, remember to stop back and give it a 5-star rating – it helps others find the recipe!
- First posted: 9/15/2023
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