If you have never tried shakshuka before, you are in for a treat. This North African and Middle Eastern dish is made with poached eggs simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce infused with warm spices like cumin and paprika. It is simple, satisfying, and packed with bold flavors.
This easy shakshuka recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick weeknight dinner. It comes together in just 40 minutes with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, it is a one-pan dish, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
In this post, I will walk you through the step-by-step process of making shakshuka, share some pro tips, and answer common questions so you can make this dish perfectly every time.
What Makes This Easy Shakshuka Recipe So Good?
- Quick and easy – Ready in 40 minutes
- One-pan meal – Minimal cleanup
- Healthy and filling – Packed with protein and fiber
- Customizable – Adjust the spice level and add your favorite toppings
- Perfect any time of day – Great for breakfast, brunch, or dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need for Easy Shakshuka Recipe
Shakshuka is made with simple ingredients, but each one plays an important role in creating the rich, savory flavor of the dish.
Basic Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ⅓ cups chopped onion
- 1 cup thinly sliced bell peppers (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ½ cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned, drained)
- 1 small hot chile pepper, finely chopped (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
Optional Additions:
- Feta cheese for a creamy, tangy contrast
- Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for garnish
- Crusty bread or pita for scooping up the sauce
How to Make This Easy Shakshuka Recipe
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sliced bell peppers. Cook for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Make the Tomato Sauce
Add the chopped tomatoes, finely chopped chile pepper, cumin, paprika, and salt. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
3. Add the Eggs
Using a spoon, create small wells in the sauce. Carefully crack an egg into each well. Cover the skillet and let the eggs cook for about five minutes, or until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny. If you prefer firmer yolks, let them cook a bit longer.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh herbs. If you like, crumble some feta cheese on top. Serve immediately with warm bread to scoop up the delicious sauce.
Easy Shakshuka Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet with lid
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and chopping board
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ⅓ cups chopped onion
- 1 cup thinly sliced bell peppers
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 ½ cups chopped fresh tomatoes or canned, drained
- 1 hot chile pepper finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers, cooking for about five minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes, chile pepper, cumin, paprika, and salt. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Create small wells in the sauce and crack eggs into them. Cover and cook for five minutes or until eggs are set.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with crusty bread.
Video
Notes
- Use fresh or canned tomatoes based on availability.
- Adjust spice levels based on preference.
- Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for three days.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 209
- Total Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Protein: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
Pro Tips for the Best Easy Shakshuka Recipe
- Use fresh or canned tomatoes – Fresh tomatoes add brightness, but canned tomatoes work just as well.
- Adjust the spice level – If you prefer a milder dish, omit the chile pepper. If you love heat, add more!
- Do not overcook the eggs – The yolks should remain slightly runny for the best texture.
- Make it your own – Add chickpeas, spinach, or even ground beef for a heartier version.
- Serve with bread – A good crusty bread or pita is essential for scooping up the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Shakshuka Recipe
Can I make shakshuka ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the tomato sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, add the eggs, and cook as directed.
What can I serve with shakshuka?
Shakshuka is best served with bread to soak up the sauce. You can also pair it with a side of salad or yogurt for a refreshing contrast.
Is shakshuka spicy?
It depends on how much chile pepper you add. You can make it mild or spicy based on your preference.
Can I add cheese to shakshuka?
Yes! Feta cheese is a great addition. It adds a creamy and tangy contrast to the rich tomato sauce.
If you are looking for a quick and delicious one-pan meal, this easy shakshuka recipe is a must-try. It is rich, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, making it perfect for any time of the day. Plus, it is simple to customize to your taste.
Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments. Do you like your shakshuka spicy? Do you add any extra ingredients? I would love to hear your favorite variations!
If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with your friends and family, and be sure to check out more of my quick and easy recipes. Happy cooking!
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