Egypt
Egyptian

Shakshuka

Eggs gently poached in a spiced tomato and pepper sauce with garlic, cumin, paprika, and fresh herbs.

Shakshuka image placeholder

Prep

15 minutes

Cook

25 minutes

Level

Easy

Serves

4

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Instructions

  1. 1

    Cook onion and bell pepper in olive oil until soft.

  2. 2

    Add garlic, cumin, and paprika; stir until fragrant.

  3. 3

    Pour in crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and simmer until the sauce thickens.

  4. 4

    Make small wells and crack eggs into the sauce.

  5. 5

    Cover and cook until whites set, then finish with parsley and feta.

Tips

Use a spoon to make clear wells so the eggs stay in place.

Pull the pan from heat when yolks are slightly softer than you want; they keep cooking.

Cook smarter

Helpful notes

Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.

Storage Tips

  • Store leftover sauce for up to 4 days without eggs.
  • Poach fresh eggs in reheated sauce for the best texture.

Substitutions

  • Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
  • Use goat cheese or skip cheese entirely.

What to Serve With

  • Serve with warm pita or crusty bread.
  • Add cucumber salad or roasted potatoes.

Common Mistakes

  • Do not add eggs before the sauce thickens or they can sink.
  • Do not cook on high heat after adding eggs because the bottoms can toughen.

Recipe FAQ

Can I make shakshuka without feta?

Yes. Feta is optional; the tomato sauce and eggs are the main dish.

How do I keep the yolks runny?

Cover the pan and check often after 4 minutes because eggs can set quickly.

Keep cooking

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