Introduction

Shakshuka is a vibrant and flavorful dish that has its roots in North African and Middle Eastern cuisine. It typically consists of poached eggs nestled in a spicy tomato sauce, making it a perfect comfort food for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. In this recipe, Jamie Oliver puts his unique spin on this classic dish, combining fresh ingredients and spices to create a fulfilling and delicious meal that is sure to impress.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 can of chopped tomatoes (400g)
– 6 large eggs
– Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Prep Time

Prep time for this shakshuka recipe is approximately 10 minutes, allowing you to quickly gather and prepare all the ingredients before cooking.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time is about 20 minutes. This brings the total time to approximately 30 minutes, and the recipe yields 3 to 4 servings, making it ideal for sharing with family or friends. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the rich, comforting texture of this shakshuka!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by finely chopping 1 onion, 1 red pepper, and 1 green pepper. Measure out your spices: 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a large frying pan, heat a good splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, peppers, and a pinch of salt. Cook these for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Add Spices

Once the vegetables are softened, add the paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Stir well for 1 minute to release the flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes

Add a tin of diced tomatoes (400g) to the pan. Stir to combine the ingredients well and simmer for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 5: Create Wells for Eggs

Use a spoon to make small wells in the tomato mixture. Crack an egg into each well, being careful not to break the yolk.

Step 6: Cook the Eggs

Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for about 5-8 minutes until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro on top. Serve immediately with crusty bread or pita on the side.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

Consider serving your shakshuka with a side of yogurt for a refreshing contrast.

Variations

Feel free to customize your shakshuka by adding other vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or incorporating feta cheese for added flavor.

Storage Tips

Shakshuka is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Cook techniques

Roasting

Roasting vegetables enhances their flavor and sweetness, making them a great addition to dishes like shakshuka.

Sautéing

Sautéing is a technique used to quickly cook food in a small amount of oil over high heat, perfect for starting your sauce base.

Simmering

Simmering involves cooking food gently in liquid at a low temperature, ensuring flavors meld together beautifully.

Cracking eggs

Carefully cracking eggs is essential when adding them to the sauce; aim to keep the yolks intact for a perfect presentation.

Seasoning

Seasoning at different stages of cooking brings out the flavors; it’s important to taste and adjust as necessary.

FAQ

What is shakshuka?

Shakshuka is a North African and Middle Eastern dish consisting of poached eggs in a sauce of tomatoes, chili peppers, and onions.

Can I use different vegetables in shakshuka?

Absolutely! You can customize shakshuka with various vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even add in some cheese.

How can I make my shakshuka spicier?

To add heat, include diced hot peppers or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking.

Can I prepare shakshuka in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and then add the eggs just before serving.

What can I serve with shakshuka?

Shakshuka is traditionally served with crusty bread, perfect for scooping up the sauce and eggs.

Conclusion

The shakshuka recipe presented offers a delightful twist on a traditional dish, allowing for personalization and creativity. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, this recipe showcases the perfect blend of spices, herbs, and rich flavors, making it a versatile choice for any meal.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Mediterranean Omelette

A fluffy omelette filled with fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and herbs for a lighter take on shakshuka.

Spicy Chickpea Stew

A hearty stew featuring chickpeas and a variety of spices, perfect for pairing with poached eggs.

Roasted Vegetable Frittata

Combine roasted seasonal vegetables and eggs for a satisfying frittata that can be served warm or at room temperature.

Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs

Creamy avocado on toasted bread topped with perfectly poached eggs, creating a fresh and delightful breakfast option.

Tomato and Spinach Quiche

A savory quiche blending fresh tomatoes, spinach, and cheese, ideal for brunch gatherings.