World Recipe: Shakshuka

06 Jul World Recipe: Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a traditional dish from North Africa, especially popular in Tunisia, Morocco, and Algeria. Its name means “mix,” and it consists of poached eggs in a spiced tomato sauce. This humble recipe is ideal for breakfast or a light lunch and has conquered kitchens around the world.

Ingredients:

• 1 onion
• 1 red bell pepper
• 2 garlic cloves
• 5 ripe tomatoes (or 1 can of plum tomatoes)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 pinch of ground chili or cayenne pepper
• 4 eggs
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Preparation:

• Chop the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté them in a pan with olive oil until soft.
• Add the spices and cook for 1 minute.

• Add the chopped tomatoes (peeled and seeded) or canned tomatoes. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens (10 to 15 minutes).
• Make small holes in the sauce and crack the eggs directly into them. Cover and cook until the whites are set but the yolks remain creamy.

• Finish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve with pita bread or toast.