Shakshuka with Feta and Fresh Herbs

Shakshuka is a comforting, vibrant dish of poached eggs in a rich tomato sauce, flavored with spices and topped with creamy feta cheese and fresh herbs. This version adds a layer of tangy, savory feta and a burst of freshness from the herbs, making it a perfect meal for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. It’s full of bold flavors, yet simple to make and easy to customize.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 4-6 large eggs

• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

• Fresh herbs (such as parsley, cilantro, or mint), chopped for garnish

• Fresh lemon wedges for serving

• Crusty bread for dipping

Preparation Steps

1. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large, deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized.

2. Add Garlic and Spices

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute, allowing it to become fragrant. Then, add the cumin, paprika, and chili flakes (if using), stirring to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices.

3. Simmer the Tomato Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing it to thicken and the flavors to meld together. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.

4. Poach the Eggs

Once the sauce has thickened, create small wells in the sauce with a spoon. Crack the eggs into each well, being careful not to break the yolks. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny. If you prefer your eggs more cooked, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

5. Finish with Feta and Herbs

Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the shakshuka. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley, cilantro, or mint, for added flavor and color.

6. Serve

Serve the shakshuka immediately with lemon wedges for a burst of citrus and crusty bread for dipping into the rich, flavorful sauce. The combination of eggs, tomato sauce, feta, and fresh herbs is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Expert Tips

• Spice Adjustments: Adjust the level of spice by adding more or less chili flakes based on your preference. You can also add a bit of harissa paste for an extra punch of heat and flavor.

• Cheese Alternatives: If you don’t have feta, goat cheese or ricotta works as a great alternative.

• Make it Vegan: For a vegan version, simply omit the eggs and feta, and add cooked chickpeas or tofu for protein.

• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or eggplant to the sauce for added flavor and texture.

Why This Dish Works

Shakshuka with Feta and Fresh Herbs is a satisfying and versatile dish that combines the richness of poached eggs, the depth of spices, and the tangy, creamy feta. The fresh herbs provide a burst of freshness that balances the richness, while the crusty bread is perfect for sopping up the flavorful sauce. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and light, making it ideal for any time of day.

Conclusion

Shakshuka with Feta and Fresh Herbs is an easy, flavorful dish that’s full of vibrant Mediterranean flavors. The combination of poached eggs, spiced tomato sauce, and creamy feta creates a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.