Shakshuka Bowl with Spiced Tomato Sauce

Bring the vibrant and comforting flavors of the Middle East to your table with this Shakshuka Bowl. A stunning dish of poached eggs nestled in a rich, spiced tomato and bell pepper sauce, it is as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or a quick weeknight dinner, this meal is a true crowd-pleaser.

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The magic of this dish lies in the sauce. As the tomatoes simmer with the peppers and spices, they create a thick, savory base that perfectly poaches the eggs. The final touch of fresh cilantro and crumbled feta adds a bright, salty finish that ties everything together.

Ingredients

• Vegetables: 1 large onion (finely chopped), 1 red bell pepper (diced), 1 yellow bell pepper (diced), 3 garlic cloves (minced), 2 cups baby spinach (optional), 1 jalapeño (seeded and finely chopped, optional for heat).
• Sauce: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon ground coriander, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional), 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon sugar, Salt and black pepper to taste.
• Eggs & Garnish: 4–6 large eggs, ¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped), ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional).
• To Serve: 4 pita breads, warmed.

Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.

Step 2

Add bell peppers and jalapeño (if using); cook for 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 3

Stir in garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, and cayenne. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add sugar, salt, and black pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

Step 5

Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes (if using).

Step 6

Make small wells in the sauce with a spoon and crack eggs into each well.

Step 7

Cover the skillet and cook for 6–8 minutes, or until egg whites are set but yolks remain runny.

Step 8

Remove from heat. Garnish with cilantro or parsley and feta cheese if desired.

Step 9

Serve immediately with warm pita bread for dipping.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the eggs poach perfectly, make deep enough wells in the sauce so they don't slide around. Covering the skillet with a lid is the best way to set the egg whites while keeping the yolks delightfully runny.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan version, simply omit the eggs and feta, substituting them with chickpeas or tofu for protein. You can also easily adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the amount of jalapeño and cayenne pepper.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this Shakshuka Bowl immediately while hot. It pairs excellently with a side of labneh or Greek yogurt and must be served with warm pita bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce and egg yolks.

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With its bold colors and heartwarming flavors, this Shakshuka Bowl is a versatile dish that brings people together. Enjoy the simple pleasure of dipping warm pita into a perfectly seasoned sauce for a meal that is as satisfying as it is healthy.

Recipe FAQs

→ What is shakshuka?

Shakshuka originated in North Africa and became popular throughout the Middle East. The dish features eggs poached directly in a spiced tomato sauce, typically seasoned with cumin, paprika, and other warm spices.

→ How do I know when the eggs are done?

The whites should appear fully set and opaque while the yolks remain slightly runny. This usually takes 6–8 minutes covered. For firmer yolks, cook an additional 2–3 minutes.

→ Can I make this ahead?

Prepare the tomato sauce up to two days in advance and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce until bubbling, then create wells and crack in the eggs to finish cooking.

→ What can I serve with shakshuka?

Warm pita bread is traditional for dipping. The dish also pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a simple green salad. Labneh or Greek yogurt on the side adds creaminess.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Reduce or omit the jalapeño and cayenne for a milder version. Add more fresh jalapeño, red pepper flakes, or harissa paste if you prefer extra heat in your sauce.

→ Is this suitable for meal prep?

The sauce reheats beautifully, though eggs are best cooked fresh. Store cooked sauce separately and add fresh eggs when reheating for optimal texture and flavor.