Discover how to make Shakshuka, a delicious Middle Eastern dish featuring poached eggs nestled in a rich tomato sauce with chili peppers and onions. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this flavorful recipe combines spices and fresh ingredients for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

- 2 tbsp olive oil

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)

- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced

- 1-2 red chili peppers, chopped (adjust to taste)

- 1 tsp ground cumin

- 1 tsp ground paprika

- 1/2 tsp ground coriander

- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

- Salt and black pepper, to taste

- 4-6 large eggs

- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

- Crusty bread or pita, for serving

Instructions:

 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.

 - Stir in the minced garlic and chopped chili peppers, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

 - Add ground cumin, paprika, and coriander. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.

 - Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with salt and black pepper, and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

 - Create small wells in the sauce using a spoon. Carefully crack an egg into each well. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your desired level of doneness.

 - Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley and serve immediately with crusty bread or pita on the side. Enjoy your homemade Shakshuka!

This recipe is ideal for a hearty breakfast or brunch and can easily be customized with additional vegetables or spices.

Nutritional values

2 tbsp olive oil

 - Calories: 240

 - Fat: 27g (mostly monounsaturated fats)

Benefits: Provides healthy fats beneficial for heart health and contains antioxidants.

1 onion, finely chopped

 - Calories: 45

 - Carbohydrates: 11g

Benefits: Rich in vitamins C and B6, and contains antioxidants that support immune function.

1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)

 - Calories: 25

 - Carbohydrates: 6g

Benefits: High in vitamins A and C, and provides antioxidants such as beta-carotene and lutein.

3-4 garlic cloves, minced

 - Calories: 15

 - Carbohydrates: 4g

Benefits: Known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, and contains antioxidants.

1-2 red chili peppers, chopped (adjust to taste)

 - Calories: 10 (for 1 pepper)

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Contains capsaicin, which may have metabolism-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects.

1 tsp ground cumin

 - Calories: 8

Benefits: Adds flavor and aids digestion; also has anti-inflammatory properties.

1 tsp ground paprika

 - Calories: ~6

 - Nutritional Benefits: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin A, which support eye health and immune function.

1/2 tsp ground coriander

 - Calories: 6

Benefits: Provides flavor and has digestive health benefits; also contains antioxidants.

1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

 - Calories: 70

 - Carbohydrates: 14g

Benefits: Rich in vitamins A and C, and contains lycopene, an antioxidant linked to various health benefits.

Salt and black pepper, to taste

 - Salt: Provides flavor but should be used in moderation to manage sodium intake.

 - Black Pepper: Contains piperine, which may aid digestion and enhance nutrient absorption.

4-6 large eggs

 - Calories: 320 (for 4 eggs)

 - Protein: 28g

 - Fat: 24g

Benefits: High in protein, vitamins (such as B12 and D), and essential fatty acids.

Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

 - Calories: 2 (per tablespoon)

Benefits: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and adds a fresh flavor.

Crusty bread or pita, for serving

Crusty Bread

  - Calories: 80-100 per slice (varies by type)

  - Carbohydrates: 15g

Benefits: Provides carbohydrates for energy. Opt for whole grain varieties for added fiber.

Pita Bread

  - Calories: 75 per piece

  - Carbohydrates: 15g

Benefits: Provides carbohydrates and can be a source of fiber, especially in whole grain versions.

This dish combines a variety of vegetables, spices, and eggs to create a flavorful and nutritious meal. Olive oil adds healthy fats, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and antioxidants. The spices contribute additional health benefits and enhance the flavor. Eggs add protein and essential nutrients, making this a balanced meal when served with crusty bread or pita for added carbohydrates.