Start your day with a burst of flavor by preparing Shakshouka, a traditional Middle Eastern dish featuring poached eggs in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce. This hearty and nutritious meal is perfect for breakfast or brunch and is sure to impress your family and guests.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4-6 large eggs
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Warm, crusty bread or pita, for serving
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large, deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.
- Poach Eggs: Make small wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each well. Cover the skillet and cook until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny, about 5-7 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley over the top. Add crumbled feta cheese if desired. Serve hot with warm, crusty bread or pita.
Tips for Perfect Shakshouka
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spiciness of the dish.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.
- Cheese Options: Try goat cheese or mozzarella as alternatives to feta.
Explore More Breakfast Recipes
Looking to diversify your breakfast menu? Check out our Breakfast Recipes category for a variety of options, including:
For those interested in expanding their culinary skills, our Cooking Guides offer step-by-step instructions on various techniques.
Recommended Resources
Enhance your breakfast repertoire with these curated selections from reputable culinary sites:
- 82 Best Breakfast Recipes & Ideas | Food Network: A comprehensive collection of breakfast recipes ranging from classic to innovative.
- 67 Best Breakfast Ideas You’ll Make on Repeat | Natasha’s Kitchen: A diverse array of breakfast options, including sweet and savory dishes.
- Breakfast Recipes | TeachRecipes: A variety of breakfast recipes designed to teach and inspire home cooks.
Conclusion
Shakshouka is a delightful and flavorful dish that brings the taste of the Middle East to your breakfast table. Its rich tomato sauce and perfectly poached eggs make it a satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and impressive to serve.
Feel free to explore more recipes and cooking tips on our website. Happy cooking!
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