Moroccan Shakshuka: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish
Moroccan Shakshuka is a bold and flavorful twist on the classic poached egg dish, featuring a rich tomato base infused with North African spices, harissa, and preserved lemons. This one-pan meal is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet or cast-iron pan Essential for even cooking
- 1 Wooden Spoon For stirring ingredients
- 1 Lid or cover To help poach the eggs
- 1 Chopping board & knife For prepping vegetables
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Amount Unit Ingredient Notes
- 2 tbsp Olive oil Extra virgin preferred
- 1 Large onion Finely chopped
- 1 Red bell pepper Sliced thinly
- 3 Garlic cloves Minced
- 2 tsp Cumin Ground
- 1 tsp Paprika Smoked or sweet
- ½ tsp Ground coriander Optional
- ½ tsp Chili powder Adjust to taste
- 1 tbsp Harissa Adjust spice level
- 1 can 14 oz Crushed tomatoes Or 3 large fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 1 Preserved lemon Finely chopped
- ½ tsp Salt Adjust to taste
- ½ tsp Black pepper Freshly ground
- 4 Large eggs Room temperature
- ¼ cup Olives Green or black sliced (optional)
- ¼ cup Fresh cilantro Chopped for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Dice the onion, slice the bell pepper, and mince the garlic.
- Chop the preserved lemon and measure out the spices.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, stirring occasionally until they soften (about 5 minutes).
Step 3: Add the Spices
- Stir in garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the harissa and preserved lemon.
- Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Poach the Eggs
- Create small wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each well.
- Cover with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the eggs are set to your liking.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and sliced olives.
- Serve immediately with crusty bread, warm pita, or couscous.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Nutrient Amount
- Calories 220 kcal
- Protein 12g
- Carbohydrates 15g
- Fat 10g
- Fiber 5g
- Iron 15% DV
- Vitamin C 40% DV
- (Values are approximate and depend on ingredient brands used.)
Recipe Notes & Variations
- Mild Version: Reduce or skip the harissa for a less spicy shakshuka.
- Protein Boost: Add chickpeas or serve with grilled lamb or chicken.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve without bread or with a side of roasted vegetables.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate; just reheat and add eggs before serving.
Pairing Suggestions
- Traditional: Serve with warm Moroccan khobz (flatbread) or pita.
- Healthy: Pair with a cucumber and tomato salad.
- Beverage: Enjoy with Moroccan mint tea or fresh orange juice.
FAQs
- ❓ What makes Moroccan Shakshuka different from regular shakshuka?
- ✔️ Moroccan shakshuka includes preserved lemons, harissa, and olives, giving it a tangy and spiced North African twist.
- ❓ Can I make this dish vegan?
- ✔️ Yes! Swap the eggs for chickpeas or tofu to keep it plant-based.
- ❓ How do I store leftovers?
- ✔️ Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat before serving.
- ❓ What bread goes best with Moroccan Shakshuka?
- ✔️ Pita, khobz (Moroccan bread), or sourdough are all excellent choices.
Final Thoughts
- Why You Should Try Moroccan Shakshuka
- This dish is bold, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you're craving a comforting breakfast, a brunch showstopper, or a quick weeknight dinner, Moroccan shakshuka delivers a perfect balance of spices, heat, and richness.
- Make it today and bring the vibrant flavors of North Africa to your kitchen!