Name: Shakshuka Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: North African
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced; 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 2 teaspoons paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; ¼ teaspoon chili powder; 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes; 6 large eggs; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 small bunch fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 small bunch fresh parsley, chopped

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Shakshuka is a vibrant North African and Middle Eastern dish featuring perfectly poached eggs nestled in a rich, spiced tomato sauce. Bursting with flavor from paprika, cumin, and chili powder, this dish is hearty, nourishing, and ready in just 30 minutes. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, shakshuka delivers comfort and elegance in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes using pantry-friendly ingredients.
Nutrient-rich: Packed with vegetables, protein from eggs, and fresh herbs.
Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.
Customizable: Add cheese, extra veggies, or adjust spices to your liking.
Cultural classic: Enjoy a taste of North African and Middle Eastern tradition at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
¼ teaspoon chili powder
1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes
6 large eggs
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 small bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
1 small bunch fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add onion and red bell pepper, cooking for about 5 minutes until onions are translucent.
Stir in garlic, paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the tomatoes with their juice, breaking them up with a spoon. Season with salt and pepper, then bring to a gentle simmer.
Create small wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each. Reduce heat to low, cover if desired, and cook for 5–8 minutes until eggs are cooked to your preference.
Garnish generously with fresh parsley and cilantro before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Shakshuka: Add crumbled feta or goat cheese before serving.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika in place of regular paprika.
Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, kale, or roasted eggplant before adding eggs.
Spicy Heat: Add cayenne or fresh chili peppers for extra kick.
Fresh Tomato Version: Replace canned tomatoes with fresh chopped tomatoes (increase cooking time for them to break down).

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat. For best results, remove eggs before reheating the sauce and poach fresh eggs before serving.
Freezing: Freeze only the tomato sauce (without eggs) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I make shakshuka ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead and refrigerate it. Add and cook the eggs just before serving.

2. Can I use crushed tomatoes instead of whole peeled tomatoes?

Yes, crushed tomatoes work well and save you the step of breaking them up.

3. Is shakshuka spicy?

It’s flavorful rather than hot, but you can add cayenne pepper if you prefer more heat.

4. What’s the best pan for shakshuka?

A stainless steel or non-reactive pan is best, as tomatoes can erode cast iron seasoning.

5. Can I make it without bell pepper?

Yes, you can omit bell pepper or substitute it with zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms.

6. How do I get firmer egg yolks?

Simply cook the eggs a bit longer or cover the pan to speed up cooking.

7. What should I serve with shakshuka?

Pita bread, crusty bread, or gluten-free bread are great for soaking up the sauce.

8. Can I add meat to this recipe?

Yes, cooked sausage, ground beef, or lamb can be added to the tomato base.

9. How do I prevent runny egg whites?

Make sure the sauce is simmering before adding eggs and cover the pan while cooking.

10. Can I use fresh herbs other than parsley and cilantro?

Yes, fresh basil, mint, or dill can add a unique twist.

Conclusion

Shakshuka is a beautiful fusion of simple ingredients and bold flavors, offering a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Whether you enjoy it as a weekend breakfast or a quick weeknight dinner, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Serve it warm with bread on the side, and let each bite transport you to the sun-soaked streets of the Mediterranean and Middle East.