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Middle Eastern & Mediterranean

Shakshuka with Feta

Shakshuka with Feta is a vibrant and flavorful Middle Eastern dish that beautifully combines simmered tomatoes, fragrant spices, and the creamy tang of feta cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting dinner, this dish offers a delightful balance of smoky, savory, and cheesy notes with each bite.

Originating from North Africa and popular across the Middle East, shakshuka has charmed food lovers worldwide with its hearty yet simple ingredients. Its name, meaning "all mixed up" in Arabic, reflects the harmonious melding of flavors. Over time, this beloved dish has gained global fame, especially as a celebrated Israeli breakfast featuring poached eggs nestled in a spicy tomato base topped with crumbled feta.

Prep time: 10 minCook time: 20 minTotal time: 30 minCalories: 350 kcal

Shakshuka1.jpg by Flickr upload bot is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and chopped red bell pepper; cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper; cook for another minute.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Create four small wells in the sauce and carefully crack an egg into each well.
  6. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat until eggs are done to your desired doneness, about 5-7 minutes (the whites should be set, yolks still runny or set as preferred).
  7. Sprinkle crumbled feta over the top and cover briefly to warm the feta slightly.
  8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
  9. Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread or pita on the side.