Ankara Basil Şakşuka

About Ankara Basil Şakşuka

Ankara Basil Şakşuka is a flavorful and colorful dish originating from Turkey, particularly popular in Ankara. Derived from its vibrant culture, this dish showcases an array of vegetables cooked to perfection and layered with a rich tomato sauce, topped with the aromatic basil. Şakşuka has its roots in Ottoman cuisine, where vegetables and meats were staples, and over the centuries, this dish evolved with regional delights making it a unique culinary offering. The dish is often enjoyed as a side or a light main course.

Ingredients

• Eggplant - 2 medium-sized
• Bell Peppers - 1 red, 1 green
• Zucchini - 2 medium-sized
• Onion - 1 large
• Garlic - 4 cloves
• Olive Oil - 100 ml
• Tomatoes - 400 grams, diced
• Red Pepper Flakes - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Basil - A handful, fresh

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables

Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Cut the eggplants into 1-inch cubes and place them in a bowl of salted water to remove any bitterness. Let them soak for about 15 minutes then drain and pat dry. Slice the bell peppers and zucchini into strips. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Sautéing

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until they become translucent. Add the minced garlic and continue sautéing until fragrant.

Step 3: Cooking the Vegetables

Add the eggplants to the pan and cook until they start to soften, stirring occasionally. Follow this with the bell peppers and zucchini. Cook the mixture until all vegetables are tender, about 10-15 minutes. Stir in the diced tomatoes, season with salt and black pepper, and sprinkle the red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Simmer

Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together, for about 20 minutes. Ensure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Garnish

Once the cooking is done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter them over the dish just before serving.

Cooking Time

This recipe should take approximately 45 minutes of active cooking time and under an hour in total.

How to Enjoy

Ankara Basil Şakşuka is best enjoyed warm. It can be served as an appetizer or main course. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or as an accompaniment to grilled meats. To amplify its authenticity, serve alongside a glass of traditional Turkish ayran or a refreshing salad.