Certainly! Shakshuka is a delicious and popular Middle Eastern and North African dish with poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce.
If you’re on the lookout for a hearty and flavorful dish that effortlessly blends the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean and Middle East, look no further than Shakshuka. This classic dish features poached eggs nestled in a spicy tomato sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients For Shakshuka
Olive Oil – The Heart of Mediterranean Cuisine
Begin your culinary journey by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet. This essential ingredient imparts a distinctive richness to the dish.
A Symphony of Aromatics: Onion and Garlic
Saute finely chopped onion and minced garlic until softened, creating the aromatic base that forms the backbone of Shakshuka.
Spice it Up with Cumin, Black Mustard Seeds, garam masala, and chili.
Elevate the flavor profile with cumin seeds, garam masala, and black mustard seeds, adding a touch of heat with chili. Adjust the spice level to suit your palate.
Tomatoes – The Canvas of Flavor
Add diced tomatoes to the mix, letting the robust flavors of the tomatoes meld with the spices. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
The Perfect Poach: Farm-Fresh Eggs
Create small wells in the sauce and gently crack 4-6 large eggs into them. Cover the skillet and let the eggs poach in the simmering sauce until the whites are set, but the yolks remain delightfully runny.
Finishing Touch: Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the top for a burst of freshness and color, completing the dish.
Serve and Savor:
Serve the Shakshuka directly from the skillet, accompanied by warm crusty bread or pita, for the perfect dipping experience. Customize your Shakshuka adventure by adding feta cheese, olives, or additional herbs based on your preferences.
With its rich flavors and cultural roots, Shakshuka is not just a meal; it’s a journey through the streets and markets of the Mediterranean. Bring this delightful dish to your table and savor the harmonious blend of spices, herbs, and perfectly poached eggs. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, Shakshuka is a celebration of the diverse and mouthwatering culinary traditions that make the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines truly special.
Easy Spicy Shakshuka Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 - medium red onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 cups fresh diced tomatoes
- 2 small chilies, dried or fresh (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp cumin seeds
- ¼ tsp black mustard seeds(option)
- salt to taste
- 4-6 large eggs
- fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion. Sauté until the onions are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic, cumin seed, garam masala, black mustard seeds, and chili. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to release the flavors.
- Add diced tomatoes and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Use a spoon to create small wells in the sauce, and carefully crack the eggs into these wells. Space them evenly across the pan.
- Cover the skillet and let the eggs cook in the simmering sauce for about 5-7 minutes or until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still runny. If you prefer a firmer yolk, cook for a longer time.
- Remove the skillet from heat once the eggs are cooked to your liking. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the top for garnish.
- Serve the shakshuka directly from the skillet with warm crusty bread or pita on the side for dipping.
