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Shakshuka: The Authentic Middle Eastern Egg Dish

Shakshuka is a delicious Middle Eastern dish that can be prepared quickly and easily with onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and eggs.
Recipe Shakshuka: The Authentic Middle Eastern Egg Dish
  • Difficulty Easy
  • Preparation 10 minutes
  • Cooking 30 minutes
  • Servings for 4 servings

Shakshuka is a vibrant dish from North African and Middle Eastern cuisines, particularly rooted in Tunisian culinary traditions while also being popular in Libyan, Algerian, Moroccan, and Israeli cooking. This skillet-cooked specialty features eggs poached in a rich sauce of onions, bell peppers (capsicum), and tomatoes seasoned with paprika and cumin. Traditionally served sizzling in its cooking pan alongside crusty bread or pita for dipping, it embodies communal dining culture – perfect for leisurely breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or simple dinners.

Key ingredients like peperoni (Italian frying peppers) can be substituted with standard bell peppers internationally. While pane casereccio refers to rustic Italian bread, any artisanal loaf works for authentic scooping. The dish’s versatility allows variations with artichokes, feta cheese (non-traditional but popular), or harissa paste for extra heat.

Historically brought to Israel by North African Jewish communities in the 1950s, shakshuka has become a culinary symbol of cross-cultural exchange between Arab and Jewish traditions. Its name derives from the Amazigh (Berber) word ‘shakshak’ meaning ‘mixture,’ reflecting its adaptable nature using seasonal ingredients.

Ingredients for 4 servings

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Method

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  1. To prepare Shakshuka, start by preparing the ingredients. Wash the bell peppers, remove the stem, cut them in half, remove the tough core and seeds, and dice them into small cubes.
  2. Clean the onions and dice them. Wash the tomatoes, peel them and cut them into fairly small cubes.
  3. Pour the oil into a large non-stick pan, add the peppers and onions, and sauté over high heat for a few minutes.
  4. Season with salt, add a pinch of pepper, reduce the heat to medium, cover with a lid and continue cooking until the peppers are softened, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add the tomatoes and continue cooking in the same way until they are completely broken down, stirring occasionally.
  6. Add the eggs and continue cooking until they reach your preferred consistency. Turn off the heat, sprinkle with some paprika and serve the Shakshuka directly in the pan! Finally, remember to download our App with exclusive content and fewer ads!

Variations and Alternatives

To enhance the flavor of your Shakshuka, you can add spices such as Chili, Curry, Paprika, or Turmeric.

Tips

If you don’t have a large enough pan, you can make the Shakshuka in two separate pans. This is also useful when serving guests at a large table for easier access.

Storage

Shakshuka is a dish that should be strictly consumed immediately after preparation.

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