Easy Shakshuka Recipe: A Simple and Flavorful Middle Eastern Breakfast

Shakshuka is a simple and comforting dish made with eggs cooked in a flavorful tomato and pepper sauce. It is popular across the Middle East and North Africa and has become a favorite breakfast and brunch dish in many homes.

What makes shakshuka special is how much flavor you can get from a handful of basic ingredients. The tomatoes become rich and slightly sweet as they cook, while garlic, onion, and spices add warmth to the sauce. Best of all, everything is cooked in one pan, making this an easy meal for busy mornings or a quick dinner.

Ingredients:

4 large eggs

4 ripe tomatoes, chopped

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 red bell pepper, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon chili flakes, optional

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

 

How to Make Shakshuka:

1. Cook the Onion and Pepper

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

The vegetables should become soft without browning too much. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Add the chopped tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes if you enjoy a little heat.

Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for about 8–10 minutes. The tomatoes will release their juices and gradually turn into a thick, flavorful sauce.

If the sauce looks watery, simply let it cook for a few extra minutes. A thicker sauce will hold the eggs better.

3. Add the Eggs

Use the back of a spoon to make four small wells in the tomato mixture. Carefully crack one egg into each well.

Cover the skillet and cook over low heat for about 5–7 minutes, depending on how you like your eggs. The whites should be set while the yolks can remain slightly runny.

4. Garnish and Serve

Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro over the top.

Serve the shakshuka immediately with warm bread. The bread is perfect for scooping up the rich tomato sauce and soft eggs.

Helpful Tips

For the best flavor, use ripe tomatoes. If fresh tomatoes are not available, canned chopped tomatoes can also work well.

You can adjust the spices according to your taste. Add more chili flakes for a spicy version, or leave them out for a milder family-friendly meal.

Shakshuka is best served hot and fresh, making it a wonderful option for breakfast, brunch, or a quick dinner. With one pan and simple ingredients, you can have a flavorful homemade meal without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.