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Easy Spicy Israeli Shakshuka Recipe for the Perfect Flavorful Breakfast

easy spicy Israeli shakshuka recipe - featured image

A quick and flavorful Israeli shakshuka recipe featuring a spicy tomato sauce with perfectly poached eggs, ideal for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 large red bell pepper, diced
  • 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped or 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 4 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan until shimmering.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent and soft, stirring occasionally.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper; cook for another 3-4 minutes until fragrant and tender.
  4. Pour in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste; stir well to combine. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens.
  5. Add smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne, chili flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well and taste; adjust seasoning as needed. Add lemon juice for brightness.
  6. Make little wells in the sauce using the back of a spoon, then carefully crack the eggs into each well. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and reduce heat to low.
  7. Cook the eggs for 5-8 minutes, depending on desired yolk consistency, until whites are set and yolks are soft.
  8. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top.
  9. Serve immediately with warm crusty bread, pita, challah, or sourdough to soak up the sauce.

Notes

Use room temperature eggs for even poaching. Cover the pan while cooking eggs to trap steam and cook gently. Adjust spice levels gradually. If sauce is too watery, simmer longer; if too thick, add a splash of water or broth. For dairy-free, skip cheese toppings. Can add harissa paste for extra heat.

Nutrition

Keywords: shakshuka, Israeli breakfast, spicy shakshuka, poached eggs, tomato sauce, brunch recipe, easy breakfast