Easy Shakshuka: A Warm, One‑Pan Delight

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Difficulty: Easy

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a skillet of simmering tomatoes, fragrant spices, and perfectly poached eggs. That’s the magic of Easy Shakshuka, a dish that traces its roots back to the bustling markets of North Africa and the sun‑kissed streets of the Middle East. Over the years, this vibrant, tomato‑based stew has traveled far and wide, earning a beloved spot at breakfast tables, brunch gatherings, and even late‑night dinner cravings. Its popularity stems from its simplicity: you need just a handful of pantry staples, a skillet, and a few minutes to create a meal that feels both rustic and refined. Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread to mop up the sauce, or pairing it with a side of fresh salad, Easy Shakshuka brings warmth, flavor, and a splash of color to any occasion. In this article, you’ll discover the best Easy Shakshuka recipe, complete with pro tips, nutritional info, and answers to the most common questions, so you can confidently whip up homemade Easy Shakshuka whenever the mood strikes.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 (28‑ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand, or 4 fresh ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped
• ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to finish
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 4 large eggs
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Freshly sliced avocado or olives for garnish (optional)
• Warm crusty bread, pita, or toasted sourdough for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Continue to cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aromatic oils and coat the vegetables evenly. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your easy Easy Shakshuka.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken slightly and develop a deep, rich caramelized flavor.
4. Using a spoon, create four shallow wells in the tomato sauce. Crack one egg into each well, being careful not to break the yolk. This is the moment when your homemade Easy Shakshuka truly comes to life.
5. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the eggs poach in the simmering sauce for 5–8 minutes, or until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny. If you prefer firmer yolks, add an extra 2–3 minutes to the cooking time.
6. Once the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta, chopped cilantro, and parsley over the top. A final pinch of salt enhances the flavors and ties the dish together.
7. Serve the Easy Shakshuka straight from the skillet, accompanied by warm crusty bread or pita for dipping. Garnish with sliced avocado or olives if you like an extra layer of richness.

Pro Tips & Notes

• For a richer sauce, sauté a tablespoon of tomato paste with the onions and peppers before adding the crushed tomatoes. This deepens the umami and gives the best Easy Shakshuka recipe an extra boost of flavor.
• If you’re cooking for a crowd, simply double the ingredient quantities and use a larger skillet or a wide, shallow roasting pan. The cooking time remains the same, but you may need an extra lid or foil to cover the pan while the eggs poach.
• Feel free to swap out the traditional feta with goat cheese, vegan feta, or even a handful of grated sharp cheddar for a different taste profile. Each variation adds a unique texture to the dish.
• To make the dish vegetarian‑friendly but still protein‑packed, add a spoonful of cooked chickpeas or lentils to the tomato sauce before cracking the eggs. This creates a heartier, satisfying meal that still fits the spirit of the homemade Easy Shakshuka.
• For a smoky twist, use smoked sea salt and a dash of chipotle powder instead of regular cayenne. The subtle smoky undertones complement the tomatoes beautifully and elevate the overall experience.
• If you prefer a milder spice level, simply omit the cayenne pepper or replace it with a pinch of sweet paprika. Adjust the heat to match your personal palate, ensuring every bite of the Easy Shakshuka is enjoyable.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 280

Carbohydrates: 18 g

Protein: 12 g

Fat: 16 g

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: How long can I store leftover Easy Shakshuka?
  A: Refrigerate any leftover sauce and eggs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop and add fresh eggs if you’d like to serve again.
• Q: Can I substitute the eggs with a vegan alternative?
  A: Yes! Use firm tofu cubes marinated in a little turboso or paprika, then gently simmer them in the sauce for a few minutes. This gives a satisfying texture while keeping the dish fully plant‑based.
• Q: How do I scale the recipe for a larger gathering?
  A: Multiply the ingredient amounts by the number of servings you need, and use a larger skillet or a wide baking dish. Keep the cooking times consistent; the sauce will take slightly longer to thicken if the volume is much larger.
• Q: What are common mistakes that can ruin the Easy Shakshuka?
  A: Over‑cooking the eggs leads to a rubbery texture, and adding the eggs too early can cause them to break. Also, avoid using low‑quality canned tomatoes; choose fire‑roasted or San Marzano varieties for the best flavor.

Closing

There’s a reason why the best Easy Shakshuka recipe has become a staple in kitchens around the world: it’s quick, comforting, and endlessly adaptable. By mastering this simple yet flavorful dish, you’ll have a go‑to breakfast, brunch, or dinner that can be dressed up or down to suit any mood. So fire up your skillet, gather the fresh ingredients, and let the aromatic spices do their work. You’ll soon discover that homemade Easy Shakshuka is more than a meal—it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome cooking that brings people together around the table.

Like this recipe? Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out for you!