Shakshuka (Eggs in Purgatory) – Spicy, Flavorful, Best Ever Eggs

A skillet of shakshuka with poached eggs and tomatoes.

Shakshuka (Eggs in Purgatory) is a flavorful, spicy, and aromatic Middle Eastern dish made with poached eggs in a rich tomato sauce. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch and can be served with crusty bread for dipping.


Why You’ll Love This Shakshuka

  • Spicy and aromatic: The tomato sauce is spiced with cumin, paprika, and garlic for an incredible flavor.
  • Poached eggs: The eggs are poached in the tomato sauce, creating a rich and tender dish.
  • Hearty and satisfying: This dish is filling and nourishing, perfect for a weekend brunch.
  • Easy to make: A simple yet flavorful dish with a short cook time.

Ingredients for the Best Shakshuka

Tomatoes, eggs, and spices for shakshuka
Tomatoes, eggs, garlic, and spices for shakshuka
  • Tomatoes: The base for the rich tomato sauce.
  • Eggs: Poached in the tomato sauce for the signature texture.
  • Garlic: For depth of flavor.
  • Onion: Adds savory flavor to the sauce.
  • Spices (cumin, paprika, chili flakes): For a well-seasoned, flavorful sauce.
  • Fresh herbs: For garnish and added freshness.

How to Make Shakshuka

Four panel collage showing the steps for making shakshuka
Sauté, simmer, poach, and serve a savory shakshuka
  • 1. Sauté onions and garlic. Cook the onions and garlic until soft and aromatic.
  • 2. Add tomatoes and spices. Add tomatoes, spices, and simmer to create the sauce.
  • 3. Poach the eggs. Make wells in the sauce and crack eggs into them. Cover and cook until eggs are poached.
  • 4. Serve. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with warm bread for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Shakshuka

  • Use ripe tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes give the sauce the best flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the eggs: Poach the eggs until the whites are set, but the yolk remains runny.
  • Add heat to taste: Adjust the spices to your preferred level of heat.

Shakshuka Recipe Card

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Brunch
Method: Poached
Cuisine: Middle Eastern

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