Table of Contents
Imagine cutting into a perfectly runny egg, its golden yolk spilling into a rich, spiced tomato sauce that’s been simmered with garlic, cumin, and a touch of chili. That’s Shakshuka—a dish so comforting, flavorful, and easy that it’ll become your go-to breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
Originating from North Africa but loved worldwide, Shakshuka (pronounced shack-shoo-kah) is a one-pan wonder that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something hearty, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Think of it as the cousin of huevos rancheros, but with Middle Eastern flair—instead of tortillas, you’ll be scooping up every last bite with crusty bread. If you loved our Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs, you’ll adore this recipe for its bold flavors and effortless prep. Ready to make the best Shakshuka of your life? Let’s dive in!
What is Shakshuka?
Ever wondered what to call eggs poached in a smoky, garlicky tomato sauce? The answer is Shakshuka—a word that sounds as fun to say as the dish is to eat! Some say it means “a mixture” in Arabic, while others joke it translates to “breakfast heaven.”
Legend has it that this dish was a way for Tunisian cooks to use up leftover veggies, proving once again that the way to a man’s (or woman’s!) heart is through their stomach. And honestly, what’s more romantic than a skillet of bubbling tomatoes, runny eggs, and warm spices?
Whether you’re a brunch enthusiast or just someone who loves a good egg dish, Shakshuka is your new best friend. Ready to give it a try?
Why You’ll Love This Shakshuka
- Restaurant-Worthy Flavor, Homemade Ease – Skip the brunch lines! This Shakshuka rivals any café version, with caramelized onions, smoky paprika, and a garlicky tomato base that’ll make your kitchen smell incredible.
- Budget-Friendly & Pantry-Staple Magic – No fancy ingredients here! Canned tomatoes, eggs, and basic spices create a dish that’s cheaper than takeout but tastes gourmet.
- Customizable & Crowd-Pleasing – Add feta for creaminess, spinach for greens, or extra chili for heat. Serve it with crusty bread, pita, or even over couscous.
If you’re a fan of our One-Pan Mediterranean Eggs, you’ll love how Shakshuka delivers similar vibes with even bolder flavors. Grab a skillet—let’s cook!
How to Make Shakshuka
Quick Overview
- Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 30 mins
- Effort Level: Easy | Key Feature: One-pan wonder with runny eggs in spiced tomato sauce
Key Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp cumin, smoked paprika, and chili flakes
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4–6 eggs
- Salt, pepper, and fresh parsley (to garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Base: Heat oil in a skillet. Cook onion and bell pepper until soft (5 mins). Add garlic and spices; stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Let it bubble for 10 mins until thickened.
- Add the Eggs: Make small wells in the sauce. Crack eggs into them. Cover and cook 5–7 mins (whites set, yolks runny).
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with parsley and feta (optional). Serve with warm bread!
What to Serve with Shakshuka
- Crusty bread (for dipping!)
- Creamy hummus or labneh
- Simple green salad with lemon dressing
- Olives and pickled veggies for tangy contrast
Top Tips for Perfect Shakshuka
- Too watery? Simmer the sauce longer before adding eggs.
- Like it spicy? Add harissa or extra chili flakes.
- No fresh tomatoes? Canned work just as well!
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers (without eggs) for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove, then add fresh eggs.
- Freezer: Freeze the tomato sauce for 2 months. Thaw, reheat, and add eggs when ready.
FAQ
Q: Can I make Shakshuka vegan?
A: Yes! Swap eggs for chickpeas or tofu scramble.
Q: What if my eggs overcook?
A: Pull the skillet off heat sooner—they’ll keep cooking in residual heat.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes?
A: Absolutely! Simmer 4 cups chopped tomatoes until saucy.
Craving More Breakfast Inspiration?
If you loved this Shakshuka, you’ll adore our Harissa Avocado Toast with poached eggs or our fluffy Cloud Eggs Benedict – perfect for your next brunch! Discover more easy, flavorful breakfast recipes here.
Avocado Toast With Poached Egg & Microgreens: 5 Best Ways To Make It – Equilibrated Recipes