Easy Shakshuka Recipe
Introduction
Shakshuka is a vibrant and flavorful Middle Eastern dish featuring eggs poached in a rich tomato and pepper sauce. This easy shakshuka recipe is perfect for any meal of the day, offering a comforting, hearty experience that’s simple to prepare.

Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion (finely diced)
- 1 red bell pepper (finely diced)
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 6 eggs
- Freshly chopped cilantro
- Freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Step 2: Stir in the garlic, paprika, cumin, and salt. Add the crushed tomatoes and mix well to combine. Reduce the heat to low.
- Step 3: Use the back of a spoon to create small wells in the sauce. Crack an egg into each well. Cover the pan and cook until the eggs reach your desired doneness. For an over easy egg, cook 3–5 minutes; over medium, 6–8 minutes; over hard, 9–12 minutes.
- Step 4: Garnish with a generous amount of chopped cilantro and parsley. Serve warm with pita bread or enjoy directly with a fork.
Tips & Variations
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped chili peppers along with the spices.
- Try using fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes for a fresher taste when in season.
- Swap out the red bell pepper for green or yellow peppers to change the flavor profile slightly.
- Serve with crumbled feta cheese on top for added richness.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the eggs. For best texture, it’s recommended to consume shakshuka fresh.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make shakshuka ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it, then add and cook the eggs just before serving to keep them fresh and tender.
What can I serve with shakshuka?
Shakshuka pairs well with warm pita bread, crusty bread, or even a side of rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
PrintEasy Shakshuka Recipe
Easy Shakshuka is a delicious and hearty Middle Eastern dish featuring eggs poached in a flavorful tomato sauce seasoned with spices and fresh herbs. This one-pan recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you want a quick, comforting meal packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 onion (finely diced)
- 1 red bell pepper (finely diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Freshly chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 6 eggs
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent, indicating the vegetables have softened and released their flavors.
- Add Spices and Tomatoes: Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, cumin, and salt to the sautéed vegetables and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the crushed tomatoes and mix well to combine. Reduce the heat to low to allow the sauce to simmer gently.
- Poach the Eggs: Using the back of a spoon, create small wells in the tomato sauce and carefully crack an egg into each hole. Cover the pan with a lid and cook until the eggs reach your desired doneness. For over-easy eggs cook for 3-5 minutes, 6-8 minutes for over medium, and 9-12 minutes for over hard eggs.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the eggs are cooked, garnish the shakshuka with a generous amount of freshly chopped cilantro and parsley. Serve warm, ideally accompanied by pita bread or enjoy it directly with a fork for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can adjust the spice level by adding chili flakes or fresh chili peppers if you prefer a spicier shakshuka.
- Use fresh herbs just before serving to keep their flavor bright and vibrant.
- Serving with crusty bread or pita helps soak up the delicious tomato and egg sauce.
- Cook eggs gently to avoid scrambling; low heat and covering the pan helps achieve the perfect poached texture.
- This recipe is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free.
Keywords: Shakshuka, Eggs, Tomato Sauce, Middle Eastern Breakfast, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Easy Brunch Recipe

