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Savory Israeli Shakshuka Recipe Easy Perfect Rich Tomato Sauce

Israeli shakshuka recipe - featured image

A quick and easy savory Israeli shakshuka with a rich tomato sauce, poached eggs, and warm spices. Perfect for a comforting meal any time of day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 red or yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can whole peeled tomatoes)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • A handful fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • Lemon wedges, to serve

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium heat (about 3 minutes) until shimmering but not smoking.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent and starting to caramelize.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  4. Add the chopped fresh tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well to combine, then season with smoked paprika, cumin, chili flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  5. Simmer the sauce over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened. Add a splash of water if too thick.
  6. Make small wells in the sauce with your spoon, and gently crack the eggs into each well, keeping yolks intact.
  7. Cover the pan and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until egg whites are set but yolks still runny. Cook 1-2 minutes longer for firmer yolks.
  8. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the top.
  9. Serve immediately with warm crusty bread and lemon wedges.

Notes

Let onions caramelize slowly for richer flavor. Use fresh ripe tomatoes for brightness or good-quality canned tomatoes if out of season. Crack eggs into a small bowl before adding to avoid shell fragments. Adjust cooking time for preferred egg doneness. Add a pinch of sugar if sauce is too acidic. Clean skillet promptly to avoid stuck-on tomato bits.

Nutrition

Keywords: shakshuka, Israeli shakshuka, tomato sauce, poached eggs, easy dinner, quick meal, vegetarian, gluten-free