Shakshuka
Tomatoes, bell peppers, spicy tahini, and eggs
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Shakshuka's origins are believed to be in Ottoman North Africa, likely Tunisia, with influences from Turkish and possibly Yemeni cuisine. It spread throughout the Middle East and North Africa, becoming a staple breakfast and lunch dish.
Shakshuka is more than just a dish; it's a communal experience, often enjoyed straight from the pan with bread for dipping. It represents warmth, comfort, and sharing.
Communal Eating
Shakshuka is traditionally served in the pan it's cooked in, encouraging sharing and dipping with bread. It's often a breakfast or brunch dish enjoyed with family and friends.
Versatility
Shakshuka's simple base allows for regional and personal variations, reflecting local ingredients and preferences. It can be adapted to vegetarian, vegan, or meat-inclusive diets.
Simplicity and Resourcefulness
Shakshuka is a relatively inexpensive and easy-to-make dish, making it accessible to a wide range of people. It's often made with pantry staples and can be adapted to use leftover vegetables.
Shakshuka offers a vibrant combination of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors. The dish is centered around a rich tomato base with a spicy kick, complemented by the creamy richness of eggs.
The dominant flavor is that of ripe tomatoes, often enhanced with roasted or sauteed bell peppers (typically red or yellow for sweetness). Garlic and onions create an aromatic foundation, while spices like cumin, paprika (both sweet and smoked), and chili flakes provide warmth and depth. The eggs add a creamy richness that contrasts beautifully with the acidity of the tomatoes. Spicy tahini contributes nutty, creamy and spicy notes, making the shakshuka more complex.
Tomato Quality
Using high-quality, ripe tomatoes is crucial for the best flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are a great choice, but any sweet, juicy tomato will work well. Canned crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute.
Spice Control
Adjust the amount of chili flakes or hot sauce to your desired level of spiciness. Taste as you go to ensure the flavors are balanced.
Egg Perfection
Cook the eggs to your preferred level of doneness. Some prefer runny yolks for dipping, while others like them fully cooked. Cover the pan briefly to steam the tops of the eggs if needed.
Bread Pairing
Serve with crusty bread, pita, or challah for dipping into the tomato sauce and runny yolks. The bread is an essential part of the Shakshuka experience.
Tahini Drizzle
Drizzle generously with spicy tahini for adding creaminess, nuttiness and a subtle spicy kick. Use good quality tahini for best results.
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