Healthy Breakfast

Shakshuka Recipe

Are you looking for a simple and delicious recipe to try at home? Look no further than this flavorful and easy Shakshuka recipe.

Shakshuka is a Tunisian food, a one-skillet dish of poached eggs in tangy and spicy tomato sauce with lots of flavors from the rich aromatic herbs. It is also called as shakshouka. There are many ways to make a shakshuka, it consists of scrambled eggs made with fresh and spicy tomato sauce.

This Middle Eastern dish is made with eggs poached in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce, and it's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. The combination of flavors and spices in this dish makes it truly unique and a must-try for any food lover. In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step instructions to make this delightful dish at home. So, let's get cooking!

What Is Shakshuka Recipe?

Shakshuka is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines succulent eggs with a rich and savory tomato and pepper base. This Mediterranean dish gets a unique twist with the addition of Indian spices and seasoning, giving it an extra layer of depth and aroma. The combination of finely chopped garlic, onion, and red bell pepper creates a harmonious blend of flavors, enhanced by the addition of paprika, red chili powder, and cumin.
The dish is then garnished with grated parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley leaves, adding a touch of freshness to the dish. This shakshuka recipe is a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and aromatic, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Why You'll Love Shakshuka Recipe?

Delicious Texture: Shakshuka offers a delightful combination of creamy, runny eggs with the rich and flavorful tomato and bell pepper base. The texture is both smooth and chunky, making every bite a satisfying experience.
Healthy and Nutritious: This shakshuka recipe is packed with nutrients from the eggs, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Eggs are a great source of protein, while tomatoes and bell peppers are full of vitamins and antioxidants. It's a wholesome and nutritious dish that is perfect for any time of the day.
Low in Calories: Shakshuka is a low-calorie dish, especially when prepared with minimal oil and cheese. It's a guilt-free meal that can be enjoyed without worrying about consuming too many calories.
Heart-Healthy: The combination of olive oil, tomatoes, and bell peppers in shakshuka makes it heart-healthy. Olive oil is known for its heart-protective properties, while tomatoes and bell peppers are good for cardiovascular health.
Versatile and Customizable: You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Add more vegetables, adjust the level of spice, or use different types of cheese for a personalized twist to the classic shakshuka.
Satisfying and Filling: With the protein from the eggs and the richness of the tomato base, shakshuka is a satisfying and filling dish that will keep you fueled throughout the day. It's perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick and wholesome dinner option.

Ingredients for Shakshuka Recipe

Eggs: Eggs are the main protein source in this dish and provide a rich and creamy texture to the tomato sauce.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a delicious rich and fruity flavor to the dish and helps to sauté the onions, garlic, and peppers.
Garlic Pods: The finely chopped garlic adds a pungent and aromatic flavor to the sauce, enhancing its overall taste.
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds a sweet and savory flavor to the sauce, providing a great base for the dish.
Red Bell Pepper: The finely chopped red bell pepper adds a sweet and subtly smoky flavor, as well as a pop of vibrant color to the dish.
Canned Diced Tomatoes with Herbs: The canned diced tomatoes with herbs provide a rich, tangy, and slightly herby flavor to the sauce, making it the perfect base for the shakshuka.

How To Make Shakshuka Recipe?

Shakshuka is a delicious and flavorful dish that is simple to prepare. To make Shakshuka, follow these steps:

Heat a wide heavy bottomed non-stick pan or iron-cast skillet over medium heat, then add olive oil.
When the oil heats up, add chopped onion and saute until it begins to soften.
Add chopped garlic and green chili, and saute until a nice aroma comes out.
Now, add the chopped red bell peppers and saute until softened. It takes 5 to 6 minutes.
Then, add canned tomato slices with herbs, stir until blended.
Add all the spices, sugar, and salt, stir well, and cover the pan with a lid. Continue to cook for about 7 to 8 minutes over low heat until it starts to reduce.
Crack the eggs one at a time directly over the tomato mixture, giving enough space around the outer edge and one at the center.
Cover the pan and cook the eggs for 2 to 3 minutes to taste (many people like their shakshuka eggs slightly runny or half-cooked).
Remove from the heat and garnish with grated parmesan cheese and finely chopped parsley leaves.

These steps are essential for creating a flavorful Shakshuka. By following these instructions, you can enjoy a delicious and aromatic Shakshuka dish that will delight your taste buds.

Serving Suggestions

Serving with Pita Bread: Shakshuka pairs perfectly with warm, toasted pita bread. The soft and chewy texture of the bread complements the rich and flavorful tomato and egg dish.
Side of Hummus: A side of creamy hummus adds a delightful contrast to the spicy and tangy flavors of the shakshuka. The creamy texture and subtle flavor of the hummus make it a great addition to the meal.
Fresh Salad: Serve shakshuka with a side of fresh and crisp salad, such as a classic Greek salad or a simple cucumber and tomato salad. The freshness and crunch of the salad provide a refreshing balance to the rich and hearty shakshuka.
Sautéed Spinach: A side of sautéed spinach makes for a healthy and nutritious addition to the meal. The earthy and slightly bitter flavor of the spinach pairs well with the bold flavors of the shakshuka.
Toasted Couscous: For a complete and satisfying meal, consider serving shakshuka with toasted couscous. The light and fluffy texture of the couscous complements the hearty and saucy shakshuka.
Warm Flatbread: Substitute pita bread with warm flatbread for a slightly different texture and flavor. The soft and chewy flatbread is perfect for scooping up the delicious shakshuka.

Tips for Making Shakshuka

Furthermore, I would like to give some tips for this shakshuka recipe.

Firstly, in this recipe, I have used canned tomato slices with herbs. But you can also use fresh tomatoes and then add some fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
Secondly, it is a spicy and tangy dish, so adjust the spice level as per your taste. Then, You may also add crumbled feta cheese instead of parmesan cheese. Then, try to cook this shakshuka recipe in an iron-cast skillet.
Finally, Crack the eggs one at a time directly over the tomato mixture (give enough space around the outer edge and one at the center). Cover the pan and cook the eggs for 2 to 3 mins to taste ( many people like their shakshuka eggs slightly runny or half cooked).

Variations for Shakshuka Recipe

Shakshuka is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations you can try:

Veggie Delight: Add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the dish for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
Meaty Twist: For all the meat lovers out there, try adding some cooked sausage, chorizo, or even bacon to the recipe for a heartier twist.
Cheese Lover's Dream: Experiment with different types of cheese like feta, mozzarella, or cheddar to add a creamy, cheesy goodness to your shakshuka.
Spice It Up: If you like it hot, add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or some hot sauce to give your shakshuka a fiery kick.
Herb Infusion: Take your shakshuka to the next level by adding fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for a fragrant and aromatic touch.
Egg-Free Option: For a twist on the classic recipe, substitute the eggs with tofu for a delicious and protein-packed vegetarian alternative.

Get creative and have fun experimenting with different ingredients to create your own unique version of this delightful shakshuka recipe!

How to Store Shakshuka Recipe

Storing Fresh Ingredients: Store eggs in their original carton in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Keep the olive oil, garlic, onion, red bell pepper, and green chili in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Canned Tomatoes: After opening the canned tomatoes, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. Use within 3-4 days for optimal flavor.
Spices and Seasonings: Keep paprika powder, red chili powder, pepper powder, sugar, cumin powder, and salt in airtight containers in a cool, dark place to preserve their flavors.
Cheese and Herbs: Store grated parmesan cheese in a resealable bag or airtight container in the refrigerator. For parsley leaves or coriander leaves, wrap them in a damp paper towel and store them in a resealable bag in the refrigerator.
Leftover Shakshuka: If you have any leftover shakshuka, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days for the best taste.
Importance of Proper Storage: Proper storage of ingredients and leftovers is crucial to maintain their freshness and flavor. By following these simple storage tricks, you can ensure that your shakshuka recipe turns out delicious every time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I adjust the spice levels in the shakshuka recipe?

Yes, you can easily adjust the spice levels by adding more or less of the red chili powder and green chili according to your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of spice used.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?

Yes, you can definitely use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes. Simply blanch and peel the tomatoes before chopping them and using them in the recipe.

How do I know when the eggs are cooked to my liking?

The eggs should be cooked for about 2 to 3 minutes, but if you prefer them slightly runny or half-cooked, you can cook them for a shorter amount of time.

Can I add other vegetables to the shakshuka?

Absolutely! You can customize the recipe by adding other vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to make it your own.

How can I make the shakshuka dairy-free?

If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can skip the grated parmesan cheese and use a dairy-free cheese alternative or simply omit the cheese altogether.

Can I make the shakshuka in advance?

While shakshuka is best enjoyed fresh, you can make the tomato mixture in advance and reheat it when you're ready to add the eggs. This can save time and make it a convenient option for busy days.

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