It’s the crackling sound of eggs dropping into a simmering spicy tomato sauce, the aroma of fragrant spices dancing in the air, and the promise of a cozy, comforting meal that makes Shakshuka a timeless favorite in North African cuisine. This Shakshuka recipe captures the essence of this flavorful dish, bringing warmth and zest to your table. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and bold flavors.
**Shakshuka North African Style Poached Eggs In Spicy Tomato Sauce Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 eggs
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the diced red bell pepper and garlic, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pepper softens.
3. Add the cumin, paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper to the skillet, stirring well to coat the vegetables with the fragrant spices.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, combining everything thoroughly. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Create small wells in the sauce using a spoon for the eggs.
6. Crack the eggs into the wells, one at a time, making sure not to break the yolks.
7. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still runny, allowing the eggs to poach gently in the tomato sauce.
8. Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
9. Serve the Shakshuka directly from the skillet, accompanied by crusty bread or pita for dipping into the spicy tomato sauce. Enjoy the richness of the creamy yolks mixing with the bold, tangy flavors of the tomato base.
Shakshuka is a versatile dish that welcomes personal touches. Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like crumbled feta cheese, olives, or even a dash of harissa for an extra kick. This recipe delivers a delightful balance of spicy, savory, and comforting elements that will make it a household favorite in no time. So, next time you’re craving a dish that’s bold in flavor and rich in heartiness, look no further than this North African style Shakshuka.
