Are you tired of the same old boring breakfast dishes and want to try something new? something is full of flavour and is still super healthy? If yes, then you’re in the right place. We have got an absolutely amazing, creamy, delicious and easy to cook breakfast dish for you. you don’t want to miss it on this one.
Introducing our extraordinary, creamy, and utterly mouthwatering breakfast dish – Shakshuka, cooked with love and simplicity.
What is Shakshuka?
Shakshuka is a popular and flavorful dish with its roots in Middle Eastern and North African cuisine. It’s essentially a one-pan dish featuring poached eggs in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce, typically seasoned with various spices like cumin, paprika, and chilli powder. The word “shakshuka” itself is believed to have originated from Arabic, meaning “a mixture” or “all mixed up,” which perfectly describes the combination of ingredients in this dish.
While the exact origins of shakshuka are debated, it has become a beloved dish enjoyed across the globe, particularly for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients Needed for Shakshuka:
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of chilli powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4-6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese (optional, but highly recommended)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped, for garnish
- Crusty bread or warm pita, for serving
Recipe for Shakshuka:
Sizzle the Base:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the extra virgin olive oil. Once shimmering, add the finely chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté until softened and just beginning to caramelise, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Some Spices:
Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chilli powder. Allow the spices to toast and release their fragrance, infusing the air with an aroma that hints at the delicious dish to come. Let them mingle for about a minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Tomato Tango:
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, along with their juices, into the skillet. Give everything a good stir, ensuring that the vegetables are coated in the flavorful tomato mixture. Allow it to simmer gently, allowing the flavours to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly, for about 10-15 minutes. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences.
Nestle in the Eggs:
With the back of a spoon, create small spaces in the tomato mixture. Carefully crack the eggs, one at a time, directly into each open space. This step is akin to creating little nests for the eggs to nestle into, where they will gently poach in the warm, savoury sauce.
Simmer and Cover:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let the shakshuka simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still gloriously runny. This step requires a delicate balance of heat and time, ensuring that the eggs are perfectly cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Finish with Finesse:
Once the eggs are cooked to perfection, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the shakshuka. The creamy, tangy cheese adds a fancy touch to the dish, elevating it to new heights of flavour and texture. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness and colour.
Serve and Dive In:
Bring the skillet straight to the table, as the shakshuka is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the stove. Serve it alongside slices of crusty bread or warm pita, perfect for sopping up the rich, saucy goodness. Encourage your guests to dive in with gusto, breaking the yolks and allowing them to mingle with the spicy tomato sauce for a taste sensation unlike any other.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Shakshuka Dish:
For an extra kick of heat, sprinkle a generous pinch of red pepper flakes over the top of the shakshuka just before serving. The vibrant red flakes not only add a fiery burst of flavour but also create a visually stunning presentation that will impress your guests.
Get creative with your toppings to elevate your shakshuka to new heights of flavour and texture. Consider adding thinly sliced avocado for a creamy contrast, crumbled goat cheese for a tangy kick, or a dollop of creamy yogurt for added richness and depth. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your perfect flavour profile.
Leftovers of this delightful dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat gently on the stove over low heat until warmed through. The flavours will have had time to meld even further, making the leftovers just as delicious as the freshly made dish.
Final Note:
With its bold flavours, vibrant colours, and comforting textures, it’s no wonder that this Middle Eastern favourite has captured the hearts of food lovers around the world. So gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and create a spicy egg recipe.
