There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting scent of a bubbling shakshuka filling the air as it simmers on the stovetop. This Mediterranean delight, with its vibrant spiced tomatoes and perfectly poached eggs, transforms an ordinary brunch into a heartwarming experience. Picture cozy weekend mornings spent at the table, dipping crusty bread into a rich, flavorful stew that’s both delicious and nutritious. With this easy shakshuka recipe designed for two, you can whip up a stunning meal that impresses without the fuss. Whether you’re looking to elevate your brunch game or simply seeking a healthy, satisfying dish to enjoy at home, this recipe checks all the boxes. Get ready to stir up some love in your kitchen!
Why is this Delicious Shakshuka so irresistible?
Comforting and Cozy: The fragrant blend of spices and tomatoes creates a heartwarming meal that invites you to savor every bite.
Quick to Prepare: You’ll have a delightful brunch ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for lazy weekends or busy weekdays.
Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with nutrients, shakshuka is a guilt-free indulgence that caters to your cravings without compromising on flavor.
Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to add veggies or adjust spices to suit your taste, ensuring that every dish feels unique to you.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re serving it to loved ones or impressing friends, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table!
Delicious Shakshuka Ingredients
• Create a perfect base for your delicious shakshuka with these essential ingredients!
For the Shakshuka Base
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and moisture; use extra for brushing bread.
• Minced Garlic (1 tsp) – Provides a fragrant base flavor; fresh is best for aroma.
• Yellow Onion (½ medium, diced) – Adds sweetness and texture.
• Red Bell Pepper (½ medium, diced) – Contributes fresh flavor and a delightful crunch.
• Paprika (1½ tsp) – Offers depth and sweetness; smoked paprika provides a unique flavor twist.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1½ tsp) – Introduces spiciness; adjust to taste for perfect heat.
• Cumin (½ tsp) – Adds an earthy note that deepens the flavor.
• Ground Coriander (½ tsp) – Enhances aromatic flavor with a hint of citrus.
• Salt (¼ tsp) – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.
• Canned Crushed Tomatoes (14 oz) – Creates the hearty stew base; look for quality brands.
For the Eggs and Garnish
• Large Eggs (3) – Provides protein and forms the heart of the dish; adjust the number for larger portions.
• Goat Cheese (crumbled) – Adds creaminess; substitute with feta for a different flavor.
• Cilantro (chopped) – Fresh garnish that brightens up the dish.
For Serving
• Bakery Bread (4 slices) – Any crusty bread or pita works perfectly for dipping and soaking up the sauce.
How to Make Delicious Shakshuka
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Heat the Oil: Start by warming olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. This sets the foundation for your flavor-packed base.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Next, toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes until softened and golden.
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Spice It Up: In a bowl, mix together the paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, cumin, ground coriander, and salt. Sprinkle this aromatic mixture over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to combine.
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Add Tomatoes: Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes, stirring thoroughly. Allow this flavorful concoction to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the spices meld together beautifully.
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Crack the Eggs: Create wells in the tomato mixture and gently crack the eggs into each well. Season them with a pinch of salt and pepper, then cover the skillet. Cook for 15-20 minutes, until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny for the perfect poached eggs.
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Toast the Bread: While the shakshuka cooks, brush bakery bread with olive oil. Place it under the broiler until golden brown, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once your shakshuka is ready, serve it warm right from the skillet, garnished with crumbled goat cheese and chopped cilantro. Pair it with your crusty bread for the ultimate brunch experience!
Optional: Drizzle with olive oil or a sprinkle of extra herbs for a refined finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Shakshuka Variations
Customize your shakshuka to suit your taste and dietary preferences with these exciting twists!
- Dairy-Free: Omit goat cheese and replace it with a plant-based cheese or yogurt for a creamy finish.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra layer of heat. The warmth will elevate the dish!
- Veggie-Packed: Stir in sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach for added nutrition and vibrant color. It’s a delightful way to make every bite a little more wholesome.
- Herbaceous Touch: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or parsley instead of cilantro for a unique flavor profile that brightens the dish.
- Chickpea Boost: Mix in canned chickpeas to enhance protein while adding a hearty texture. They soak up the flavors beautifully!
- Cheesy Delight: For a richer taste, use a mix of feta and mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy experience that takes this dish to the next level.
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice over your shakshuka just before serving for a zesty finishing touch that brightens the flavors.
- Smoked Flavor: Swap out regular paprika for smoked paprika to infuse a deep, smoky taste that enhances the dish’s complexity.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious shakshuka are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the tomato base up to 3 days in advance; simply follow the first four steps of the recipe, letting the mixture cool before transferring it to an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can chop all the vegetables and store them together in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the tomato mixture gently in the skillet, create wells, crack the eggs in, and cover to finish cooking to your desired yolk consistency. This way, you’ll have a comforting brunch ready with minimal effort and just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
Storage Tips for Delicious Shakshuka
Fridge: Store leftover shakshuka in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain its delightful texture, reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent dryness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, prepare the tomato base without eggs and freeze in a suitable container for up to 3 months. This allows you to enjoy a quick and easy meal later!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop while adding fresh herbs or a little extra spice for added flavor.
Serving Freshness: For the best taste and texture, consume the shakshuka shortly after preparing it, as the fresh poached eggs are key to this delicious dish.
What to Serve with Delicious Shakshuka?
There’s nothing quite like creating a full and delightful meal to complement the warmth of a shakshuka—imagine the scents and tastes mingling together.
- Crusty Bakery Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich tomato sauce, a fresh loaf adds a lovely crunch and balances the meal.
- Greek Yogurt: A cooling dollop adds creaminess and a tangy contrast—ideal for those who enjoy a bit of zest with their spicy food.
- Light Salad: A refreshing arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette provides a crisp bite, balancing the hearty shakshuka perfectly.
- Roasted Veggies: Flavorful roasted zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers enhance the Mediterranean vibe while introducing delightful textures.
- Hummus Platter: Serve alongside zesty hummus with assorted veggies for dipping—great for adding variety and playful flavors.
- Mint Lemonade: This refreshing drink complements the spices in the shakshuka, offering a cooling sensation that brightens the whole meal experience.
- Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad with chickpeas, cucumbers, and herbs keeps the Mediterranean theme alive, providing a light yet satisfying side.
- Feta Cheese Crumbles: Sprinkle some feta over your shakshuka for an extra layer of creaminess and flavor that pairs beautifully with the dish.
- Baklava: End your meal on a sweet note with this flaky pastry—its honey and nut filling is the perfect treat after a savory brunch.
Expert Tips for Delicious Shakshuka
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Ripe tomatoes, fresh garlic, and vibrant spices enhance the dish’s flavor. Avoid older pantry spices as they lose potency.
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Watch the Eggs: Cook eggs for 15-20 minutes for a runny yolk. Overcooking leads to a rubbery texture, so keep an eye on them!
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Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes according to your preference. Start with a smaller amount and build it up for the perfect heat.
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Perfect the Texture: Make sure the sauce simmers well before adding the eggs. This ensures a rich, flavorful base for your delicious shakshuka.
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Choose Your Garnish: Cilantro brightens up the dish, but feel free to substitute with parsley or green onions for different flavor notes.
Delicious Shakshuka Recipe FAQs
What type of tomatoes should I use for shakshuka?
I recommend using high-quality canned crushed tomatoes, as they provide a rich and hearty base for your shakshuka. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, opt for ripe Roma or on-the-vine varieties; you’ll need about 2-3 medium-sized tomatoes. Just chop them up into small pieces to create the base.
How long does shakshuka last in the fridge?
Shakshuka can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, do so gently on low heat, adding a splash of water to ensure it stays moist and delicious!
Can I freeze shakshuka?
Absolutely! However, if you freeze it, I suggest preparing the tomato base without the eggs. After cooling, pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat, then crack in your eggs and follow the cooking instructions.
What if my eggs are overcooked?
To achieve the perfect poached eggs, aim for 15-20 minutes of cooking time. For those who prefer runny yolks, watch closely as the whites set, and reduce cooking time slightly. If you accidentally overcook the eggs, don’t fret; just stir the shakshuka gently, and the dish will still be convenient and tasty!
Is this shakshuka recipe suitable for my dietary restrictions?
This delicious shakshuka can easily be made gluten-free by using your choice of gluten-free bakery bread. For a dairy-free option, substitute the goat cheese with a plant-based feta or skip the cheese altogether. Additionally, the spice levels can be adjusted to accommodate any allergies or sensitivities you may have.
What bread pairs best with shakshuka?
Crusty bakery bread is a classic choice for serving with shakshuka, so go for sourdough or crusty whole grain. Authentic pita or flatbread also works wonderfully to soak up that rich, flavor-packed sauce. The more the merrier when it comes to good bread!
Delicious Shakshuka: A Cozy Brunch for Two to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by warming olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Next, toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking for 3-5 minutes until softened.
- In a bowl, mix paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, cumin, ground coriander, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture over the sautéed vegetables and stir well.
- Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes, stirring thoroughly. Allow to simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Create wells in the tomato mixture and gently crack the eggs into each well. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes.
- Brush bakery bread with olive oil and toast under the broiler until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Serve warm right from the skillet, garnished with crumbled goat cheese and chopped cilantro.