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Flavorful Shakshuka with Feta and Fresh Herbs

flavorful shakshuka with feta and fresh herbs - featured image

A quick and easy shakshuka recipe featuring a rich tomato sauce, poached eggs, crumbled feta, and fresh herbs for a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red or yellow bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes, preferably no salt added
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until shimmering but not smoking.
  2. Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly golden.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and red chili flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper (start with 1/2 teaspoon salt). Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes until slightly thickened. Add a pinch of sugar if the sauce is too acidic.
  5. Stir in chopped parsley and cilantro, reserving some for garnish.
  6. Create 4 small wells in the sauce using the back of a spoon. Crack one egg into each well carefully, keeping yolks intact.
  7. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to low. Cook for 6-8 minutes until egg whites are set but yolks remain runny. Cook longer if firmer yolks are desired.
  8. Sprinkle crumbled feta over the eggs and sauce. Cover again for 1-2 minutes to warm the cheese slightly.
  9. Garnish with reserved herbs and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or warm pita.

Notes

Use room temperature eggs for best poaching results. If sauce thickens too much or sticks, add a splash of water. Cook eggs low and slow to avoid rubbery texture. Fresh herbs add brightness; reserve some for garnish. Can substitute dairy-free feta or omit for vegan version.

Nutrition

Keywords: shakshuka, eggs, feta, tomato sauce, Mediterranean, brunch, easy recipe, fresh herbs