International Cuisine > African Cuisine > North African Dishes > Shakshuka Recipe (North African)

Authentic Moroccan Shakshuka

Discover the rich and vibrant flavors of North Africa with this authentic Shakshuka recipe. This dish features eggs poached in a flavorful tomato and pepper sauce, seasoned with traditional Moroccan spices. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Servings
6
Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 1 medium, chopped Onion
  • 1 medium, chopped Red bell pepper
  • 1 medium, chopped Green bell pepper
  • 4 cloves, minced Garlic
  • 28 ounces Canned crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon (or more to taste) Harissa paste
  • 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon Smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon (optional) Cayenne pepper
  • 6 Eggs
  • 2 tablespoons, chopped Fresh cilantro
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper

Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Build the Sauce

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, harissa paste, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.

Poach the Eggs

Using a spoon, create 6 small wells in the tomato sauce. Gently crack an egg into each well. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and the yolks are still runny, or cook longer if you prefer harder yolks. The cooking time will depend on your stove and the desired level of doneness for the eggs.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the Shakshuka with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve immediately, directly from the skillet, with crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 80-120 kcal, Protein: 5-7g, Fat: 5-8g, Carbohydrates: 4-6g. These values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

  • This recipe is a good source of protein, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
  • Adjust the amount of harissa paste to control the spice level.
  • Use fresh, high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
  • Serve with whole-grain bread for added fiber.
  • Consider adding feta cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra flavor and protein (adjusting nutritional values accordingly).

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FAQ

  • Can I make Shakshuka ahead of time?

    You can prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and proceed with poaching the eggs.
  • Can I add other vegetables?

    Yes, you can customize Shakshuka with other vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms. Add them to the skillet along with the onions and bell peppers.
  • Is Shakshuka spicy?

    The spiciness of Shakshuka depends on the amount of harissa paste you use. Adjust the amount to your preference. You can also omit the cayenne pepper if you prefer a milder dish.