- 1
First, place two tablespoons of oil in a large pan over medium heat. A skillet with a heavy bottom is very effective because the heat is evenly distributed. The flavour may also depend on the quality of the oil, so choose one that would complement spices. Once the oil is hot, put the finely chopped onions and bell peppers. Saut these vegetables for 5-7 minutes till soft and translucent. This would introduce the sweetness of these vegetables and would work out to be a flavour base in this dish.
- 2
Add garlic and spices: After the onions and bell peppers become soft, add 2-3 minced garlic cloves. Stir it for one more minute until the fragrance develops. Then add spices: cumin powder, one teaspoon; paprika, one teaspoon; red chilli powder, 0.25 teaspoon. Fry for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly so the garlic does not burn and the spices bloom and release their essential oils.
- 3
Then add 500 gms of chopped tomatoes. You can use either fresh or canned tomatoes. Add one teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes—season with salt to taste. Bring everything together and bring it to a simmer. Stir occasionally for 10 to 15 minutes to thicken the sauce and let the flavours meld. If too thick, water can be added to the sauce for the right consistency.
- 4
Once the sauce has reached the right consistency, create 4-6 small wells in the sauce.
- 5
Do this gently so you don't rip the sauce out too much with these indentations
- 6
Pour an egg into each well. Try to do this gently so you don't break your yolks.
- 7
Once done, cover the pan with a lid. It will help the eggs steam up evenly. Depending on how runny you like your yolks to be, let them cook for 5-8 minutes. If you want firmer yolks, you may let them cook a little longer. You can test by shaking the pan lightly or peering through the lid.
- 8
Garnish Shakshuka; once your eggs are to your liking, it's time to take off the cover and sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves for added freshness.
- 9
To add a sort of creaminess and extra flavour, you can sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top.
- 10
Shakshuka is best served piping hot. It would be best served directly from the pan with crusty bread or roti. Every bite has been made delicious with the bread used to scoop the rich sauce and egg yolks.
- 11
This shakshuka recipe will give you a very satisfying meal that can be a great breakfast, brunch, or dinner. Saut ed vegetables and spices represent a palette of flavours that, combined with poached eggs, make for an absolutely satisfying and aesthetically pleasing dish. Just enjoy this North African-inspired recipe of Shakshuka, which will impress your family and friends.