Description
Shakshouka Toast is a vibrant and flavorful Middle Eastern breakfast dish featuring poached eggs nestled in a spiced tomato and bell pepper sauce, served on toasted thick-cut bread. This easy-to-make recipe combines a savory tomato base with fragrant spices like cumin and smoked paprika, offering a rich and satisfying start to your day or a delightful brunch option.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Shakshouka Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Eggs and Serving
- 2 large eggs
- 2 slices thick-cut bread, toasted
- Chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper, cooking for another 3–4 minutes until the pepper becomes tender and fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then season with ground cumin, smoked paprika, optional chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
- Cook the Eggs in the Sauce: Using the back of a spoon, create two small wells in the tomato sauce. Crack one egg into each well carefully. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 4–6 minutes, or until the egg whites are fully set while the yolks remain slightly runny.
- Toast the Bread: While the eggs cook, toast the thick-cut bread slices until golden and crisp to provide a sturdy base for the sauce and eggs.
- Assemble and Garnish: Spoon the shakshouka sauce and eggs on top of the toasted bread slices. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh, herbal finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish warm and flavorful.
Notes
- The tomato sauce can be prepared ahead of time and gently reheated before adding the eggs.
- For extra flavor, add toppings like crumbled feta cheese, sliced avocado, or a dollop of harissa.
- Choose sourdough, rye, or country-style bread for a sturdier and more flavorful toast base.
- Adjust chili flakes to your preferred level of spiciness, or omit entirely for a milder dish.
- Covering the skillet while cooking the eggs helps them cook evenly and retain moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
