Shakshuka Poached Eggs Tomato (Print Version)

Eggs gently poached in spiced tomato sauce with peppers, perfect for a hearty yet light vegetarian meal.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 - 1 large onion, finely chopped
03 - 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
04 - 1 medium yellow bell pepper, diced
05 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
06 - 1 small fresh chili, finely sliced (optional)
07 - 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, or 5 ripe tomatoes, chopped

→ Spices & Seasoning

08 - 2 teaspoons ground cumin
09 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
11 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
12 - Salt, to taste
13 - Black pepper, to taste
14 - 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

→ Eggs & Garnishes

15 - 4 large eggs
16 - Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish
17 - Crumbled feta cheese, for garnish (optional)
18 - Warm crusty bread or pita, to serve

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
02 - Add chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes or until soft and translucent.
03 - Stir in diced red and yellow bell peppers; cook for an additional 5 minutes until vegetables soften.
04 - Add minced garlic and sliced chili (if using); sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
05 - Sprinkle in ground cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, and cayenne (if using); stir constantly for 1 minute to toast spices.
06 - Pour in diced tomatoes with juice or fresh chopped tomatoes. Stir in sugar (if desired), salt, and black pepper.
07 - Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.
08 - Taste and correct salt or pepper as required.
09 - With a spoon, make 4 small wells in the sauce. Crack an egg into each well.
10 - Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook 6–8 minutes until egg whites are set but yolks remain runny.
11 - Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped herbs and crumbled feta, if desired.
12 - Serve immediately with warm crusty bread or pita.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses everyday vegetables and pantry spices
  • A single pan means quick cleanup and easy serving
  • Customizable heat and toppings for every taste
  • Great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner
02 -
  • High in protein and ideal for a filling meal without feeling heavy
  • Vegetarian and naturally gluten-free if you skip the bread or use gluten-free varieties
  • A terrific way to use up vegetables and make the most of pantry staples
03 -
  • Always let the sauce thicken enough before adding eggs so they cradle rather than sink
  • Cracking eggs into a small bowl first means easier transfer without breaking yolks
  • And if you are aiming for runny yolks, start checking after five minutes under the lid residual heat will finish the job, and nobody likes overcooked eggs