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Homemade Shakshuka

This dish features a rich, spiced tomato sauce simmered with aromatics and peppers, topped with eggs that gently poach in the flavorful base. The final result is a vibrant, saucy skillet with runny yolks and tender vegetables, perfect for dipping crusty bread. It’s a comforting, meditative meal that combines simple ingredients with mindful cooking techniques.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large onion diced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes preferably ripe and juicy
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil good quality, fruity
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 4 eggs fresh preferred
  • fresh parsley or cilantro chopped, for garnish
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Cast-iron skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Lid
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil, shimmering gently. Toss in the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until they soften and begin to caramelize, about 8 minutes, filling your kitchen with a sweet, savory aroma.
  2. Add the minced garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika, stirring until fragrant—about 30 seconds—then pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir well, bringing the mixture to a simmer, and cook for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and deepens in color.
  3. Season the sauce with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting as needed. Use a spoon to create small wells in the sauce, evenly spaced around the skillet, ready for the eggs.
  4. Gently crack each egg into a well, taking care not to break the yolk. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 minutes, until the whites are set but yolks remain runny and glossy.
  5. Check the eggs: whites should be opaque and yolks still soft. If overcooked, remove the lid sooner; if undercooked, cover and cook a minute longer. Once perfect, remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro.
  6. Serve immediately from the skillet with warm crusty bread for dipping, enjoying the vibrant sauce and luscious eggs in every bite.