Shakshuka is a delightful Middle Eastern and North African dish that brings together rich, spicy tomato sauce and perfectly poached eggs. It's a one-pan wonder that works for breakfast, brunch, or any time you want something comforting yet exotic.
Olive oil is the base for sautéing, bringing a smooth richness to the veggies. Onion and red bell peppers add a sweet, savory depth to the dish. Garlic infuses the sauce with its unmistakable aroma. Ground cumin and smoked paprika provide warmth and smokiness, while a touch of cayenne pepper gives it a hint of heat. Crushed tomatoes form the luscious sauce that ties everything together. Eggs are the stars, poaching gently in the sauce. To finish, fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, and feta cheese brings a creamy, tangy contrast.
Shakshuka pairs beautifully with crusty bread or pita, perfect for scooping up every bit of the flavorful sauce. A simple side salad with cucumber and tomato complements the dish well, adding a refreshing crunch.
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add in the chopped onion and red bell peppers. Let them cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften up nicely, around 6-8 minutes.
Next, stir in the minced garlic along with the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Let these cook for about 2 minutes, just until the spices become fragrant, filling your kitchen with their warm, inviting aroma.
Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes, giving everything a good stir. Season the mix with some salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens up to your liking.
With a spoon, make six small wells in the sauce, then carefully crack an egg into each one. Cover the skillet and let it cook until the eggs are just set, around 5-7 minutes. You want the whites to be cooked through but the yolks still nice and runny.
Finally, garnish your shakshuka with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese before serving. Enjoy the medley of flavors in every spoonful!
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