Eggs in tomato sauce - Shakshouka

Shakshouka – A delicious recipe for eggs in tomato sauce

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Shakshouka is a vibrant and comforting dish that combines fresh eggs with a flavorful tomato sauce. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for any meal of the day, from a hearty breakfast to a light dinner. Its origins are deeply rooted in the culinary culture of many communities, and each variation brings a personal touch. So, get ready to discover how to make the perfect shakshouka!

Necessary ingredients:

- 6 fresh eggs
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 can of Sun Food tomatoes (about 400 g)
- 1 red bell pepper (or yellow, if you prefer a hint of sweetness)
- 3 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons flavored olive oil (you can add herbs for extra taste)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric (for color and flavor)
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (for a hint of spice)
- 1 red onion
- 2 green onions
- A handful of fresh chopped parsley

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing and peeling all the ingredients. Cut the bell pepper into thin strips, the red onion into julienne, and the green onions into rounds, keeping the tails intact for added texture. The garlic slices should be thin, and the chopped parsley will add freshness to the final dish.

2. Heating the oil:
In a deep skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the teaspoon of cumin and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds until it releases its aroma.

3. Cooking the vegetables:
Add the red onion and half of the bell pepper strips to the skillet. Stir frequently, allowing the vegetables to soften for 5-7 minutes. Add the sliced garlic and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic turns slightly golden.

4. Preparing the tomato sauce:
Chop the canned tomatoes into small pieces and add them to the skillet. Season with smoked paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well and let the sauce simmer covered on low heat for 10-15 minutes. This time will allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

5. Adding the eggs:
Once the sauce has simmered, add the remaining bell pepper strips. Using a spoon, create wells in the tomato sauce and crack each egg separately, being careful not to break the yolk. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the eggs cook for 3-5 minutes until the whites are fully set, and the yolks are still slightly soft.

6. Finishing and serving:
Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, sprinkle the fresh parsley on top for a fresh and vibrant appearance. Shakshouka is now ready to be served! You can enjoy it with a slice of soft bread, a mix of couscous with rice, or alongside a portion of hummus and cheese.

Practical tips:

- Vegetarian option: Add vegetables like zucchini or spinach to the sauce to enrich the dish.
- Extra sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add a teaspoon of brown sugar or a grated carrot during cooking.
- Spicy sauce: If you like spicy food, add a few slices of chili pepper or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the tomato sauce.
- Varied textures: Serve shakshouka with different types of bread, such as pita or ciabatta, to soak up the delicious sauce.

Nutritional values:
Each serving of shakshouka has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. It is an excellent source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, thanks to the vegetables and eggs. This recipe is a healthy option for a hearty breakfast or a quick dinner.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use eggs with hard yolks?
Of course! You can cook the eggs longer if you prefer firmer yolks.

- What other flavors can I add to the sauce?
You can experiment with herbs like basil or oregano, or spices like coriander.

- Is it possible to prepare shakshouka in advance?
It is best to prepare shakshouka fresh, but you can make the sauce in advance and add the eggs before serving.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start cooking! Shakshouka is a versatile recipe that will captivate you with its rich flavors and ease of preparation. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 6 eggs, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 can Sun Food tomatoes, 1 red bell pepper, 3 cloves of garlic, 2 tablespoons flavored olive oil, 1 teaspoon turmeric, 1 pinch of cayenne pepper, 1 red onion, 2 green onions, fresh parsley.