Spiced Tomato Shakshuka Flavorful and Simple Recipe

Are you ready to spice up your breakfast? Spiced Tomato Shakshuka is a simple, yet flavorful dish that warms the soul. With fresh tomatoes, eggs, and a blend of spices, it’s a meal everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, I’ll guide you through each step. Let’s dive in and make a dish that’s both tasty and satisfying!

Ingredients

Detailed List of Ingredients

For your Spiced Tomato Shakshuka, you will need:

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 medium onion, finely diced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 red bell pepper, finely diced

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

– Salt and black pepper, to taste

– 4 large eggs

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

– Crumbled feta cheese (optional for garnish)

– Crusty bread, for serving

Measurements and Substitutions

Each ingredient plays a key role in flavor. If you lack an item, here are some swaps:

– Olive oil: Use avocado oil or butter for a different taste.

– Onion: Shallots or leeks can work well too.

– Red bell pepper: Yellow or green peppers can be used instead.

– Spices: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika is fine.

– Eggs: For a vegan version, you can use tofu or chickpea flour mixtures.

Optional Garnishes

Garnishes add fun and flavor. Here are a few to try:

– Fresh cilantro for a bright touch.

– Sliced green onions for a mild crunch.

– Avocado slices for creaminess.

– A drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.

Feel free to mix and match these options to elevate your shakshuka game!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

Start by gathering all your ingredients. You need:

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 medium onion, finely diced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 red bell pepper, finely diced

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper

– 4 large eggs

– Fresh parsley, chopped

– Crumbled feta cheese (optional)

– Crusty bread

Now, chop the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. This makes cooking faster.

Cooking the Tomato Base

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion first. Cook it for about 5 minutes. You want it to be soft and clear.

Next, add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper. Stir these in and cook for another 3-4 minutes. The bell pepper should soften, and the garlic will smell great.

Now, sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix this well. Let it cook for an extra minute. This helps the spices release their flavors.

Now, pour in the crushed tomatoes. Season it with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat and let it cook for 10-15 minutes. The sauce will thicken and taste great.

Poaching the Eggs

Once the sauce is ready, create small wells in it using the back of a spoon. Carefully crack one egg into each well.

Cover the skillet with a lid. Let the eggs poach for 5-7 minutes. The egg whites should be set, and the yolks will be runny.

When the eggs are done, take the skillet off the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. If you like, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top.

Serve your Spiced Tomato Shakshuka hot with crusty bread. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Flavor and Texture

To make your Spiced Tomato Shakshuka shine, focus on the base. Start with fresh onions and garlic. Sauté them until they smell sweet. This step builds a strong flavor. Use a mix of spices: cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne. These add warmth and depth. Adjust the cayenne for your spice level. If you like it mild, use less. For a punch, add more. The crushed tomatoes form the sauce. Let it cook down until thick. This helps the flavors mingle well.

Cooking Time Adjustments

Every stove is different. Keep an eye on your cooking times. After adding the tomatoes, let the sauce simmer. You want it thick, not watery. If you find it too thin, cook it longer. For poaching the eggs, adjust the time based on your taste. If you prefer firmer yolks, let them cook longer. If you like runny yolks, check them around the 5-minute mark. Cooking time can change based on the size of the eggs too.

Serving Suggestions for Best Experience

Serve your shakshuka right from the skillet. It looks great and feels warm. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for color. If you enjoy cheese, crumbled feta is a lovely touch. It adds creaminess to the dish. Pair your shakshuka with crusty bread. Use it to scoop up the sauce and eggs. You can also serve a simple salad on the side. This adds a fresh crunch. Enjoy the mix of textures and flavors!

Variations

Adding Different Vegetables

You can make shakshuka your own by adding veggies. Try zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. Each adds taste and color. For a hearty dish, use eggplant or squash. Just chop them small and add with the onion. This keeps them tender and flavorful. Mix it up based on what you have at home.

Spice Level Adjustments

Adjust the spice to fit your taste. If you love heat, add more cayenne. For a milder dish, skip the cayenne. You can also add a dash of chili flakes or a pinch of black pepper. Taste as you go and find the right balance. Everyone loves a dish that suits their heat level.

Incorporating Proteins or Cheese

Want more protein? Add cooked sausage or chickpeas. These options bring heartiness to the dish. You can also stir in beans for a boost. If you want creamy goodness, sprinkle feta or goat cheese on top. These cheeses melt beautifully and enhance the flavor. Each choice makes the dish more filling and tasty.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To store leftovers of spiced tomato shakshuka, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. This dish tastes great even after a day.

Reheating Instructions

When you want to reheat shakshuka, use a skillet. Heat on low. Stir gently to warm it evenly. You can also use the microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it. Heat in short bursts, about 30 seconds at a time. Check to see if it’s hot throughout.

Freezing Shakshuka for Later Use

You can freeze shakshuka for later meals. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Remember to leave some space for expansion. Shakshuka can stay good in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Shakshuka ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Shakshuka ahead of time. Cook the tomato sauce and let it cool. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the sauce. Then, add the eggs and cook until they are just right. This method saves you time during busy mornings.

What can I serve with Shakshuka?

Shakshuka pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options:

– Crusty bread for dipping

– Fresh salad for crunch

– Yogurt for creaminess

– Avocado slices for richness

These sides enhance the flavors and make your meal more filling.

Is Shakshuka healthy?

Yes, Shakshuka is a healthy dish. It is packed with veggies and protein from the eggs. Tomatoes provide vitamins and antioxidants. Olive oil adds healthy fats. You can make it even healthier by using less oil or adding more vegetables. Enjoying this dish offers a nutritious and satisfying meal choice.

This blog post dives into making delicious Shakshuka from scratch. We covered the key ingredients and their measurements, plus optional garnishes to enhance your dish. The step-by-step instructions showed how to prepare the tomato base and poach the eggs perfectly. I shared tips for flavor and texture, cooking time changes, and serving ideas. We also explored fun variations with vegetables, spices, and proteins. Finally, I provided storage info to keep your leftovers fresh. Enjoy experimenting with Shakshuka; it’s a meal that’s fun to make and shar