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Flavorful Shakshuka Recipe with Crusty Bread for Easy Cozy Brunch

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A cozy and flavorful shakshuka with gently poached eggs in a spiced tomato sauce, served with crusty bread for a comforting brunch experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium red or yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 28 ounces canned crushed or whole peeled tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin (toasted lightly)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 to 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • A handful of chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish
  • Thick slices of rustic sourdough or country bread

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Add chopped onion and diced bell pepper; cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
  3. Stir in minced garlic, toasted cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if using; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add crushed canned tomatoes and tomato paste; stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  7. Make small wells in the sauce and crack eggs into each well.
  8. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and cook gently for 6-9 minutes until egg whites are set and yolks are cooked to your preference.
  9. Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the top.
  10. Serve immediately with thick slices of toasted crusty bread for dipping.

Notes

Toast spices before adding tomatoes to deepen flavor. Use a lid to cover while poaching eggs for even cooking. Adjust cayenne pepper or add harissa for more heat. If sauce is too acidic, balance with a pinch of sugar or honey. Crack eggs into small bowls before adding to sauce to avoid shells. Serve with rustic sourdough or gluten-free bread for best results.

Nutrition

Keywords: shakshuka, brunch, eggs, tomato sauce, crusty bread, easy recipe, cozy meal, vegetarian, gluten-free option