Explore the culinary culture of the Middle East with our authentic and delicious Shakshuka recipe. Learn how to prepare this traditional dish of poached eggs in tomato sauce with exotic spices on our blog. Discover useful tips to adapt the recipe to your dietary needs, whether gluten-free, dairy-free or vegetarian. Let yourself be carried away by the vibrant flavors and comforting textures of Shakshuka in every bite! Visit our blog today and start your culinary adventure!
Shakshuka
Shakshuka: A traditional dish from the Middle East and North Africa. Poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce with onion and pepper. Tasty and comforting, ideal for any occasion.”
4
Portions20
minute25
minute250
kcal45
minuteIngredients:
2 Tablespoons of olive oil
1 large onion, thinly sliced
red pepper, cut into strips
3 garlic, chopped
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
1 teaspoon of paprika
1 can of crushed tomatoes (400g)
1 pinch of salt and pepper to taste
5 eggs
Chopped fresh parsley (optional, to decorate)
Crumbled feta cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and red pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes more, until fragrant.
- Add the cumin, sweet paprika and paprika. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Pour the crushed tomatoes into the pan and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Using the back of a spoon, make small wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each.
- Cover the pan and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still runny.
- Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
- Serve the shakshuka hot straight from the pan with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips
- Use a large frying pan: A large skillet will give you enough space to cook all the ingredients evenly and to make the necessary holes for the eggs.
- Control the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of hot spices such as paprika or paprika. If you like it spicier, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder.
- Vary the ingredients: The beauty of the shakshuka is its versatility. Feel free to add additional vegetables such as spinach, eggplant or mushrooms depending on your preference.
- Make sure the eggs are fresh: Fresh eggs will poach better and look more attractive in the shakshuka.
- Control the cooking time of the eggs: If you prefer firmer yolks, cook the shakshuka for a little longer. If you like runnier yolks, cook for less time.
- Serve with crusty bread: Shakshuka is perfect for dipping with crusty bread or pita bread. Make sure you have enough bread to enjoy every bite.
Nutritional information
- Calories 250kcal
- Carbohydrates 20g
- Protein 12g
- Fat 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fiber 5g
Shakshuka and health benefits
At the heart of Shakshuka lies its star ingredient: eggs. These little wonders are packed with high-quality proteins, essential for growth, tissue repair, and satiety. Additionally, eggs are a rich source of choline, a nutrient vital for brain function and heart health.
But the magic of Shakshuka doesn't stop there. Its tomato sauce, seasoned with spices such as cumin and paprika, offers an explosion of antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and promote cellular health. Tomatoes, in particular, are a source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant associated with reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer.
By adapting the recipe to be low carb, gluten free and dairy free, Shakshuka becomes an inclusive option for those with food sensitivities or following a specific diet. By adding additional vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms, you further increase their fiber content, essential for healthy digestion and blood sugar regulation.
Nutritional attributes
- High protein content and satiety: Eggs are a source of high-quality protein that helps maintain muscle mass, promote satiety, and control appetite, which can be beneficial for those who want to control their weight or improve their body composition.
- Rich in antioxidants and cardiovascular health: The tomatoes, peppers and onions used in Shakshuka are rich in antioxidants such as lycopene, vitamin C and flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation, protect against cell damage and improve cardiovascular health.
- Low Carb and Blood Sugar Control: By limiting carbohydrates in the recipe, Shakshuka can be a low-carb option, which can be beneficial for those looking to control their blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
- Rich in fiber and digestive health: By adding vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms or eggplant, Shakshuka can be an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health, intestinal regularity and the prevention of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
- Gluten-free and dairy-free for food intolerances: By adapting the recipe to be gluten-free and dairy-free, Shakshuka can be a safe and delicious option for those with food intolerances or sensitivities, allowing them to enjoy a nutritious and tasty meal without worry.
History of Shakshuka
Discover the fascinating story behind the iconic Shakshuka recipe, a dish that has captivated palates around the world. Native to the Middle East and North Africa, Shakshuka has deep roots in the region's rich culinary tradition. This dish is said to have been created as an ingenious way to make the most of available ingredients, such as ripe tomatoes, peppers and fragrant spices.
Over the centuries, Shakshuka has traveled along ancient trade routes and left its mark on a variety of culinary cultures. From the bustling streets of Morocco to the lively markets of Israel, Shakshuka has been adapted and reinvented in countless ways, but always retaining its comforting and delicious essence.
Today, Shakshuka has become a popular dish around the world, appreciated for its simplicity, versatility and unmistakable flavor. Whether you enjoy it in a cozy Tel Aviv cafe or prepare it in the comfort of your own kitchen, Shakshuka is a celebration of culinary diversity and a reminder of food's ability to bring people together.
Join us as we explore the rich history of Shakshuka and take you on a journey through its unique flavors and enduring legacy. Visit our blog to discover more about this exciting dish and learn how to prepare it at home!
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Image credit: Freepik
