Shakshuka | Basics with Babish

How to Make Shakshuka: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients:

• Olive oil
• 1 onion, finely diced
• Garlic cloves, minced or pressed
• Spices: cumin, smoked paprika, harissa paste, Aleppo pepper, Ras el Hanout
• 28-ounce can of fire-roasted tomatoes
• Cayenne pepper
• Roasted red peppers
• Eggs
• Optional toppings: feta cheese, parsley, cilantro, honey
• Pita bread or crusty bread

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base:

   • Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a stainless steel skillet over medium heat.
   • Add diced onions and sauté until softened and translucent.
   • Add minced or pressed garlic and sauté for additional flavor.
   • Toast the spices (cumin, smoked paprika, harissa paste, Aleppo pepper, Ras el Hanout) for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Add fire-roasted tomatoes, cayenne pepper, roasted red peppers, and any additional spices for flavor.
   • Let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes until the sauce thickens.

2. Add Eggs:

   • Create wells in the sauce using a spoon and crack eggs into the wells.
   • Spoon the sauce over the whites of the eggs to help them cook.
   • Cover the skillet and let the eggs simmer for about 5 minutes until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny.

3. Finish and Serve:

   • Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from heat.
   • Top the shakshuka with crumbled feta cheese, parsley or cilantro, and a drizzle of honey for sweetness.
   • Serve the shakshuka immediately with pita bread or crusty bread.

Variations:

1. Italian-Inspired Shakshuka:

   • Sauté Italian sausage until browned and set aside.
   • Sauté garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and other Italian flavors.
   • Add crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, and return the sausage to the sauce.
   • Simmer for 20-30 minutes, add mozzarella, and serve with Parmesan and fresh basil.

2. Mexican or Spanish-Inspired Shakshuka:

   • Swap Italian flavors for cumin and smoked paprika.
   • Garnish with jalapenos, cotija cheese, or manchego.
   • Serve with washed and dried cilantro or toasted tortillas.

3. Customize Your Shakshuka:

   • Experiment with different spices, proteins, and toppings to create your unique twist on shakshuka.
   • Be creative and adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences and celebrate regional flavors.

Enjoy your homemade shakshuka and explore different variations to add variety to your breakfast routine!