Shakshuka: Eggs Poached in Spiced Tomato Sauce

Shakshuka: Eggs Poached in Spiced Tomato Sauce

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Shakshuka is a North African and Middle Eastern dish that has become a favorite in home kitchens everywhere. Everything cooks in a single pan, and it is just as good for a slow weekend breakfast as it is for a quick weeknight dinner.

Serves: 2 to 3 · Prep: 10 minutes · Cook: 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon sweet or smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes, or to taste
  • 1 can (about 400 g / 14 oz) crushed or chopped tomatoes
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt and some black pepper
  • 4 to 5 eggs
  • Fresh parsley or coriander, chopped
  • Crumbled feta, optional

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a wide, deep frying pan over medium heat. Add the onion and pepper and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until soft.
  2. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika and chili flakes. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the tomatoes, add the salt and pepper and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  4. Use a spoon to make small wells in the sauce. Crack an egg into each well.
  5. Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 5 to 8 minutes, until the egg whites are set and the yolks are as runny or firm as you like.
  6. Sprinkle with herbs and feta and serve straight from the pan.

Serving ideas

Serve with crusty bread, warm pita or toast for dipping into the sauce.

Tips

  • Use a lid so the tops of the eggs cook through without overcooking the bottom.
  • Add spinach or chickpeas to the sauce to make it more filling.
  • The sauce can be made a day ahead. Reheat it and add the eggs just before serving.

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