Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a delicious and nutritious one-pan Middle Eastern dish that has become popular worldwide. It is believed to have originated in North Africa, and its name is derived from the Arabic word for "mixture." The dish typically features eggs poached in a flavorful sauce of tomatoes, peppers, and onions, spiced with cumin, paprika, and chili. Over the years, Shakshuka has spread across the Middle East and become a staple breakfast or brunch dish, though it can be enjoyed at any time of day. Here we provide a comprehensive recipe for this classic dish, along with tips for preparation and serving.

Ingredients

• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 large, diced
• Red bell pepper - 1 large, diced
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Tomatoes - 800 grams, canned or fresh, chopped
• Tomato paste - 2 tablespoons
• Paprika - 2 teaspoons
• Ground cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Chili powder - 1/2 teaspoon
• Eggs - 6
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley - for garnish
• Feta cheese - optional, for serving
• Sliced bread - for serving

Preparation

Start by preparing all your ingredients to make the cooking process seamless. Slice the onion and red bell pepper into thin strips, and mince the garlic. If using fresh tomatoes, cut them into small cubes. Prepare your cooking station by gathering a large skillet with a fitted lid, preferably cast-iron, and have your olive oil and spices within reach.

Cooking Process

Sautéing the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking until the onion is translucent and the pepper is soft, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. The combination of these ingredients forms the aromatic base of your shakshuka.

Creating the Sauce

Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet, and season with paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together, allowing the mixture to simmer and thicken. This should take about 10-15 minutes. The sauce should be robust, with the depth of flavor coming from the spices and the sweetness of the cooked tomatoes.

Poaching the Eggs

Once the sauce has thickened, create little wells in the sauce with a spoon and crack an egg into each well. Cover the skillet with the lid and allow the eggs to poach. Check frequently; you want the egg whites to be set while the yolk remains runny. This can take 5-10 minutes. To gauge accurately, make sure to use a cooking timer.

Serving Suggestions

Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley and sprinkle with feta cheese if desired. Serve immediately, using crusty bread to scoop up the sauce and enjoy each bite. This dish is best enjoyed with friends and family, allowing everyone to share from the communal skillet.

Furthermore, Shakshuka pairs wonderfully with a simple arugula salad or a side of roasted potatoes, complementing its rich flavors with a variety of textures and tastes. Whether you choose to savor it at breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this vibrant dish is sure to satisfy and delight your taste buds. Enjoy the delightful blend of spices, the creamy consistency of the poached eggs, and the sweet and tangy tomato sauce in every bite.

Enjoying Shakshuka

Shakshuka is versatile and can be customized to include other ingredients such as spinach, chickpeas, or even eggplant for a twist. Feel free to adapt the spice level to your preference by adding more chili powder or incorporating a splash of hot sauce. With its rich cultural history and widespread appeal, Shakshuka is not only a delicious dish but also an excellent conversation starter, making it perfect for gatherings.