Shakshuka – Eggs Poached in Spiced Tomato Sauce

 

Shakshuka is one of those dishes that is perfect any time of the day – for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. It’s a comforting one-pan recipe, made with simple ingredients you probably already have at home: tomatoes, onion, garlic, spices, and eggs.

I love making shakshuka because it feels both cozy and vibrant at the same time. The sauce gets its warmth from cumin and paprika, and the eggs gently poach right in the pan until the whites are set but the yolks are still soft. Scoop it up with a piece of fresh bread, and you have a satisfying meal.

---

Ingredients (2–3 servings)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 can (400 g) crushed tomatoes

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)

• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 3–4 eggs

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish

---

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large frying pan. Add the onion and sauté until soft and golden.

2. Add garlic and red bell pepper, cook a few minutes more.

3. Stir in cumin, paprika, and chili flakes. Let the spices bloom for 1–2 minutes.

4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for 10–15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Make small wells in the sauce with a spoon, and gently crack the eggs into them.

6. Cover with a lid and cook on low heat until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny (5–7 minutes).

7. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve straight from the pan with bread.

---

Tips 🌿

• Add feta cheese on top before serving for extra creaminess.

• You can make it spicier with harissa paste or extra chili flakes.

• Try serving with sourdough bread or flatbread for dipping.

---

Why you’ll love this recipe ❤️

• One-pan and minimal cleanup

• Budget-friendly and healthy

• Works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner

---