This Shakshuka Baked Eggs dish is a delightful way to enjoy eggs. The rich, spiced tomato sauce perfectly complements the warm, gooey eggs, creating a comforting meal you can enjoy any time of day.
The beauty of shakshuka lies in its versatility. You can adjust the level of spice to your liking, add extra veggies, or top it with crumbled feta for a creamy twist. It’s a meal that feels indulgent yet light and fresh, making it ideal for brunch or even dinner.
Full Recipe:
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 onion, finely chopped
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp ground cumin
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
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1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
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Salt and pepper to taste
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4 large eggs
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
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Pita bread or crusty bread (for serving)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, and cook for 5-6 minutes until softened.
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Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, and chili powder, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Pour in the diced tomatoes, and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
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Make 4 wells in the tomato sauce, and crack an egg into each well.
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Sprinkle the feta cheese over the eggs (optional). Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the eggs are set but the yolks are still runny.
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Garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with pita or crusty bread for dipping.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
What is Shakshuka?
Shakshuka is a vibrant, flavorful dish originating from the Middle East and North Africa. Traditionally, it consists of eggs poached or baked in a spiced tomato sauce, often accompanied by onions, peppers, and a medley of spices. It has become a beloved dish around the world, particularly for breakfast or brunch, though it is versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of the day. The dish is often served with crusty bread, making it perfect for dipping into the rich sauce and runny egg yolks.
The key to a great shakshuka lies in the sauce, which is made with a combination of tomatoes, garlic, onions, and bell peppers, seasoned with cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. This base is aromatic, mildly spicy, and perfectly complements the eggs. The eggs themselves are poached or baked directly in the sauce, allowing them to soak up the flavors while still maintaining a runny yolk.
The Art of Cooking Shakshuka
Cooking shakshuka is an art that requires a careful balance of flavors and textures. One of the challenges is achieving the perfect egg texture—cooked whites with a runny yolk, which can be difficult to attain without overcooking. To achieve this, it’s essential to let the eggs sit in the sauce for a short period before baking them in the oven. This gives the egg whites a head start, allowing them to set while keeping the yolks perfectly runny.
While the most traditional method is to bake the eggs, some variations of the dish also involve poaching the eggs on the stovetop, especially if you’re preparing a large batch. This method is also great for making shakshuka at a camping trip, as demonstrated by the author’s experience catering for 80 wedding guests over a campfire. The dish’s simplicity and quick cooking time make it perfect for outdoor gatherings, ensuring that guests are served hot, fresh meals within minutes.
How to Customize Your Shakshuka
Shakshuka is highly adaptable and can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary needs. The base recipe typically includes peppers, onions, and tomatoes, but feel free to get creative by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. For instance, you could swap out bell peppers for zucchini or eggplant for a different texture, or add white beans for a heartier version. A Mexican twist on shakshuka might involve incorporating corn and black beans for a unique flavor profile.
Additionally, the dish can be made vegan by simply omitting the eggs or using tofu as a substitute. If you’re a fan of cheese, crumbled feta or goat cheese can be added for an extra creamy texture that complements the spiced sauce beautifully.
Shakshuka as a Versatile Meal
Although shakshuka is often considered a breakfast or brunch dish, it is truly a meal for any time of the day. Whether you’re having it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, shakshuka is filling, nutritious, and satisfying. The richness of the sauce, combined with the eggs and spices, creates a wholesome dish that will keep you feeling full for hours.
This dish also makes for an excellent choice when entertaining guests. Its bold flavors and eye-catching presentation make it an impressive dish to serve for a weekend brunch or a casual dinner party. Serve it with warm pita bread or toasted crusty bread for dipping, and you have a dish that everyone will rave about.
Health Benefits of Shakshuka
Beyond its delicious taste, shakshuka is packed with nutrients. Tomatoes, the main ingredient in the sauce, are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and lycopene, which is known for its potential heart-health benefits. The eggs provide high-quality protein and essential amino acids, making the dish a great source of energy. The spices, such as cumin and paprika, offer anti-inflammatory properties, and the addition of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro adds a burst of vitamins and minerals.
With minimal added fat and the option to customize with vegetables, shakshuka is a nutritious and balanced meal that fits into a variety of dietary plans. Whether you’re following a low-carb, Mediterranean, or plant-based diet, shakshuka can be adjusted to fit your needs without compromising on flavor.
Perfect Pairings for Shakshuka
Shakshuka pairs perfectly with warm, crusty bread or pita, which is ideal for scooping up the delicious sauce and runny egg yolks. You can also serve it with a side of mixed greens or a light salad to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. For those looking for a heartier meal, shakshuka can be complemented with roasted potatoes or a grain like quinoa or couscous.
If you’re looking to add a touch of sweetness to the meal, consider serving shakshuka with a fruit salad or a side of fresh fruit. A glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice or a yogurt-based smoothie can also enhance the meal, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory dish.
Shakshuka for Any Occasion
One of the best things about shakshuka is its versatility. It works well for a casual weekend breakfast or brunch, as well as for a quick and satisfying dinner. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining a crowd, shakshuka is a dish that brings people together. The communal aspect of the dish—dipping bread into the shared skillet of sauce and eggs—creates a sense of connection and makes for a fun and interactive meal.
It’s also a great dish to prepare in advance, making it perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge, then simply heat it up and add the eggs when you’re ready to cook. This makes shakshuka an ideal option for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting guests and want to serve something impressive without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Shakshuka
Shakshuka is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of bold flavors, comforting textures, and the joy of sharing a meal with others. With its fragrant tomato sauce, spiced eggs, and versatility, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, shakshuka is sure to impress. The best part? It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and can be served for any occasion.
So, next time you’re in the mood for something hearty and flavorful, give shakshuka a try. With its rich history and vibrant flavors, this Middle Eastern classic will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.