Shakshuka Breakfast Skillet

Name: Shakshuka Breakfast Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon paprika; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 large eggs; Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

When I first tried Shakshuka, it was love at first bite! The vibrant flavors of tomatoes and spices combined with perfectly poached eggs create a delightful and satisfying breakfast. I appreciate how quick it is to prepare—perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches alike. With each forkful, I savor the warmth and zest, and I know that this dish is not just a meal, but an experience that brings people together. I can't wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-16T15:02:29.543Z

When I first attempted to make Shakshuka, I was amazed by how easily everything came together. The fresh ingredients meld beautifully, creating a dish that is both visually stunning and incredibly flavorful. I remember the aroma filling my kitchen as the tomatoes cooked down; it was intoxicating! My secret tip? Use a mixture of spices to enhance the depth of flavor, and don't rush the poaching of the eggs for the perfect texture.

Over the years, I’ve explored various adaptations of Shakshuka, adding ingredients like bell peppers and feta to elevate the taste. Each new try brings a delightful surprise. This dish is not only perfect for breakfast but also makes a comforting dinner option. I often serve it with crusty bread for dipping, ensuring no delicious sauce goes to waste.

        You'll Love This Shakshuka!
        Bold, savory flavors that awaken the senses
Perfectly poached eggs nestled in a spiced tomato sauce
Great for sharing with friends and family during brunch

      

Perfecting the Poach

Poaching eggs can be tricky, but the method here ensures perfectly runny yolks every time. When you create the wells in the sauce, be mindful of their size; about 3-4 inches wide is ideal. This allows enough space for each egg to fit comfortably without merging into one another. As you cover the skillet, keep an eye on the eggs. The whites should appear opaque and firm, while the yolks should remain slightly jiggly; this usually takes around 5-7 minutes.

Using a lid is crucial in this step, as it traps steam and helps cook the eggs evenly. If you prefer firmer yolks, let them poach for an additional minute or two, but be cautious not to overcook them, as that's when they can become rubbery. Experiment with the timing until you find the perfect balance that suits your taste.

Ingredient Insights

The crushed tomatoes play a pivotal role in this dish, providing both base and depth of flavor. Opt for high-quality tomatoes, as the sauce is primarily tomato-driven. Look for those labeled as San Marzano, which are known for their sweetness and low acidity. If fresh tomatoes are in season, you can use diced fresh tomatoes instead, but be aware that you may need to simmer longer to achieve the desired thickness.

Don’t underestimate the seasonings! The combination of cumin and paprika not only contributes a warm, earthy flavor but also lends a beautiful color to the dish. If you’re looking for a touch of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes during the sautéing step. This simple adjustment can elevate the flavor profile considerably.

Serving Suggestions

Shakshuka is traditionally served with a side of crusty bread, which is perfect for scooping up the flavorful sauce and yolks. A lightly toasted baguette or pita would enhance the meal wonderfully. For a twist, consider serving it with a side of creamy feta or a drizzle of tahini, which adds a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the dish's spiciness.

This dish also pairs nicely with a light salad or can be bulked up with roasted vegetables for a heartier meal. For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture, and poach fresh eggs on top for an easy second helping that feels just as special.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start cooking:

Main Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon paprika
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 large eggs
Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to create a delicious Shakshuka!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Shakshuka:

Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, cumin, and paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Prepare the Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow to cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Poach the Eggs

Create small wells in the sauce and crack the eggs into each well. Cover the skillet and let the eggs poach for about 5-7 minutes, or until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread. Enjoy your delicious Shakshuka!

That's it! You've made a fantastic Shakshuka Breakfast Skillet!

Pro Tips

For a spicy kick, add some sizzling chili flakes or jalapeños to the sauce. Adjust the cooking time of the eggs according to your preference for yolk doneness.

Storing and Reheating

Shakshuka is great for meal prep; however, eggs are best served fresh. If you want to prepare it ahead of time, consider cooking the sauce up to the poaching stage. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet, create the wells, and poach the eggs to your liking.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored for easy reheating. Place them in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to enjoy, warm it gently on the stovetop. It’s a quick and convenient way to savor a nutritious meal without the fuss of starting from scratch.

Variations on Shakshuka

Shakshuka can easily adapt to your taste preferences! You can introduce other vegetables, such as diced zucchini or spinach, during the sauté of onions and peppers. These additions will not only boost the nutritional value but also enhance the texture and flavor of the dish.

For a heartier version, consider adding chickpeas or cooked sausage to the sauce. This adds protein and makes the meal more filling, perfect for a satisfying brunch. Furthermore, spices can easily be swapped or supplemented; consider adding harissa for a North African twist or smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is letting the sauce boil too rapidly after adding the tomatoes. Keeping a gentle simmer prevents the sauce from reducing too quickly and could leave you with a watery mixture. Patience is key here; allow it to cook slowly for 10-12 minutes until it thickens beautifully.

Another issue arises when poaching the eggs: using eggs that are too cold straight from the fridge can result in uneven cooking. To avoid this, let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before poaching. This will help achieve that beautiful set white and luscious, runny yolk.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Shakshuka in advance?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and add the eggs when you're ready to enjoy.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

If you're looking for a vegan version, you can try using tofu or chickpea flour to create a similar texture.

→ What else can I add to Shakshuka?

Feel free to get creative! Feta cheese, spinach, or even artichokes can add some exciting flavors to your dish.

→ Is Shakshuka healthy?

Absolutely! It's packed with vegetables and protein. You can also adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary needs.