Shakshuka is an easy and healthy recipe for breakfast (or any time of day) in Israel and other parts of the Middle East and North Africa. it’s a simple combination of tomatoes, onions, garlic, spices, and slow-poached eggs. It’s nutritious, filling, and a recipe I guarantee you’ll make again and again.
shakshuka
The first time I drank shakshuka was years ago on a trip to Egypt with my mom. I remember instantly loving the food and the simple yet bold flavors and spices. So when I recently visited Israel, where shakshuka is almost a national dish, it was the food I was most looking forward to diving into, once again.
i spent two weeks traveling around israel (in the most glorious trip) and was able to enjoy shakshuka many times. To be honest, I considered it “research” so I could bring you an authentic version inspired by Tel Aviv.
is tel aviv the capital of shakshuka?
Tel Aviv, which I’ll talk more about in a future post, is a bustling, vibrant, modern city with an outdoor café atmosphere. i didn’t know what to expect from tel aviv but i can tell you this, it blew my mind. there is a youthful energy in the city and I met some of the most friendly and hospitable people.
There is a magnificent Mediterranean climate year-round in Tel Aviv, but let me tell you, the food scene is definitely something to write home about. I ate And I ate. And I ate. everything is fresh, full of vegetables, loaded with herbs and layered with flavor. it is a dream city for vegetarians and those who like phenomenal food.
the photo below is a shakshuka I enjoyed in tel aviv. how adorable is that individual serving served in a mini sauté pan? shakshuka with freshly squeezed juice and a side of fruit, yes please! but since this may be a new recipe for many of you, let’s answer some basic questions about shakshuka.
what is shakshuka?
Shakshuka is a classic North African and Middle Eastern dish and is eaten for breakfast or any meal of the day. it is made from simple and healthy ingredients and is vegetarian. Shakshuka literally means “a mixture” and the traditional version uses tomatoes, onions and spices as a base with poached eggs on top.
Today, you can find many variations of shakshuka, like my green shakshuka with brussels sprouts and spinach and my orange shakshuka with butternut squash. you can also add feta or goat cheese and adapt it to your taste. the options are endless, which is what makes this dish a national favorite (from so many countries!).
is shakshuka spicy?
Shakshuka spices can vary, but you’ll typically find paprika, cumin, and chili powder, along with fresh garlic. I would consider it savory spicy, not spicy. although you can always add cayenne pepper if you want to heat it up.
how do you make shakshuka?
It’s very easy to make shakshuka, especially if you use canned tomatoes (although you can also use fresh tomatoes). chop an onion and a red pepper and add them to a pan with a little olive oil over medium heat. stir the vegetables for about 5 minutes or until the onions turn translucent.
then add the garlic and spices and stir for another minute until nice and fragrant. Pour in a 28-ounce can of whole peeled tomatoes and use your spatula to break the tomatoes into smaller pieces. once the entire mixture is simmering, you can crack the eggs on top.
Use your spatula to make small holes for the eggs, then crack an egg into each hole. I used 6 eggs, although depending on the size of your pan you can use more or less. reduce the heat to low, cover the pan and cook for another 5-8 minutes or until the eggs are set to your liking.
Before serving, season the eggs with salt and a generous amount of freshly chopped parsley and cilantro. enjoy!
for healthier breakfast recipes
- healthy breakfast casserole
- smoked salmon frittata
- Egg muffins with zucchini and prosciutto
- eggs baked in avocado
see how easy it is to make shakshuka
If shakshuka is new to you, be sure to check out my video tutorial. I will guide you through the process step by step (it’s very easy). you’ll have it down in no time!
Disclaimer: I visited Israel in association with Vibe Israel, a non-profit group that raises awareness of all that Israel has to offer. I had an amazing time on your wellness tour and am happy to share my experiences. all opinions are my own.
