Poached Egg Shakshuka – A Flavorful One-Pan Brunch Favorite
Poached Egg Shakshuka is a delicious, one-pan dish featuring perfectly poached eggs simmered in a rich, spiced tomato sauce. This North African and Middle Eastern classic is packed with bold flavors and fresh herbs, making it a nutritious and satisfying choice for any meal.

If you’re looking for a step-by-step guide to poaching eggs perfectly, check out Serious Eats’ Guide to Poached Eggs. Additionally, for an in-depth look at the nutritional benefits of tomatoes and eggs, visit Healthline’s Nutritional Guide.
For those who enjoy vegetarian side dishes, try Black Bean & Corn Salad—a fresh and tangy dish that pairs beautifully with Poached Egg Shakshuka.
Why Poached Egg Shakshuka is a Must-Try Dish
Rich in Protein & Nutrients: Eggs provide essential nutrients, while tomatoes are packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
Quick & Easy One-Pan Meal: Since everything cooks in a single skillet, cleanup is minimal.
Customizable with Herbs & Toppings: Add spices, cheese, chickpeas, or meats for variety.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting brunch, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.

Essential Ingredients for a Delicious Poached Egg Shakshuka

Base Ingredients for a Rich Tomato Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- 4 fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- Salt & black pepper to taste

Eggs & Fresh Herb Toppings
- 4 large eggs
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Feta cheese or labneh (optional)
Step-by-Step: How to Make Poached Egg Shakshuka
1. Sauté the Vegetables for a Flavorful Base
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions and bell peppers, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.

2. Create a Rich, Spiced Tomato Sauce
- Add fresh tomatoes (or canned) and vegetable broth.
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
3. Poach the Eggs in the Sauce
- Make small wells in the sauce and gently crack the eggs into them.
- Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the whites set while yolks remain soft.
4. Garnish & Serve Immediately

- Sprinkle with fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, basil).
- Optionally, top with crumbled feta or labneh for extra richness.
- Serve immediately with pita, naan, or crusty sourdough bread.
For a cheesy, comforting dish, try Gina’s Creamy Mushroom Lasagna as a side.
Different Twists on Poached Egg Shakshuka
1. Spicy Tomato & Egg Recipe with Harissa
- Add 1 tsp of harissa or chili paste for extra heat.
2. Chickpea-Infused Mediterranean Breakfast Dish
- Stir in 1 cup of cooked chickpeas for added protein and texture.
3. Middle Eastern-Inspired Recipe with Za’atar
- Incorporate za’atar, sumac, and roasted eggplant for deeper flavors.
4. Jamie Oliver’s Take on Poached Egg Shakshuka
- Add chorizo or balsamic vinegar for bold richness.
5. Vegan Option with Tofu Instead of Eggs
- Replace eggs with soft tofu or extra chickpeas for a plant-based variation.

Best Cooking Methods for Poached Egg Shakshuka
1. Stovetop Cooking for a Quick Meal
- The most traditional and fastest way to prepare shakshuka.
2. Oven-Baked Version for Hands-Free Cooking
- Ensures even egg cooking without overcooking the sauce.
3. Slow Cooker Method for Enhanced Flavor
- Perfect for meal prepping and developing deeper flavors.
For another easy comfort meal, try Creamy Mac and Cheese.

How to Serve Poached Egg Shakshuka Like a Pro
- Best Breads: Pita, sourdough, challah, naan.
- Perfect Side Dishes: Black Bean & Corn Salad, roasted potatoes.
- Drinks to Pair With It: Mint tea, Turkish coffee, fresh orange juice.
Final Thoughts – Why You Should Try This Dish Today
This Poached Egg Shakshuka is a versatile, nutritious dish that works for any meal of the day. Whether you prefer the classic version, a protein-packed variation, or an Ottolenghi-inspired twist, this dish is bold, flavorful, and easy to make.
🔥 Want to get creative? Try adding avocado, tahini drizzle, or extra harissa for a unique twist!
For another savory, protein-rich meal, check out Steak with French Onions & Mushrooms.
What’s your favorite way to enjoy homemade shakshuka? Let us know in the comments! 😊🍳

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