Nutrient-Packed Shakshuka (Whole Eggs)
Eggs gently poached in a rich, spiced tomato and bell pepper sauce. This one-pan North African classic is incredibly satisfying, packed with protein and vibrant vegetables for a nourishing breakfast or light dinner.
For 4 servings
- prep
Prep all the vegetables.
1.Finely chop 1 medium onion.2.Mince 4 garlic cloves.3.Dice 2 bell peppers into small pieces.4.Finely chop 6 large tomatoes. - saute · ~10 min
Build the aromatic base.
1.Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.2.Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.3.Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell peppers. Cook until peppers soften, about 5-7 minutes.TIPDon't rush the onions; let them turn glossy for natural sweetness. - simmer · ~11 min
Cook the tomato sauce.
1.Add the chopped tomatoes, 1 tsp cumin powder, 1 tsp paprika, a pinch of red chili powder, 0.5 tsp salt, and a pinch of black pepper.2.Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.3.Cook uncovered until the sauce thickens and tomatoes break down completely, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally.TIPThe sauce should be thick enough to hold the eggs. If it's too watery, just simmer a bit longer. - simmer · ~7 min
Poach the eggs in the sauce.
1.Make 4 small wells in the sauce using the back of a spoon.2.Crack one egg directly into each well, keeping yolks intact.3.Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to low.4.Cook for 6-8 minutes until egg whites are completely set but yolks remain runny.TIPFor firmer yolks, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. - garnish
Garnish and serve immediately.
Remove the lid and sprinkle generously with freshly chopped cilantro and parsley. Serve straight from the skillet with crusty bread for scooping.
TIPBring the skillet directly to the table — the presentation in the pan is half the charm.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Grate the tomatoes instead of chopping for a smoother, quicker sauce.
- 2Use a wide skillet so each egg has its own pocket without merging.
- 3If your tomatoes are not fully ripe, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance acidity.
- 4Let the sauce cool slightly before cracking eggs to prevent curdling.
- 5Test doneness by gently jiggling the pan—whites should be set, yolks wobbly.
Adapt it for your goals.
Feta & Spinach
Crumble 50g feta into the sauce before adding eggs, and stir in a handful of fresh spinach until wilted for a creamier, Greek-inspired version.
Spicy MerguezSpicy Merguez
Brown 4 sliced merguez sausages after cooking the onions, then proceed with the recipe for a hearty, smoky meat lover's shakshuka.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Vitamin C
Bell peppers and tomatoes together provide a strong dose of vitamin C, supporting immune function and skin health.
Rich in Lycopene
Cooked tomatoes release more lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health, and the olive oil helps your body absorb it.
Good Source of Protein
Each serving provides about 14g of protein from eggs, helping to keep you full and satisfied.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, use one 400g can of whole peeled tomatoes, breaking them up with a spoon. Reduce the simmer time by 2–3 minutes.
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