Rustic Bell Pepper Shakshuka

This Rustic Bell Pepper Shakshuka is a vibrant, flavor-packed skillet dish that combines rich tomato sauce, tender sautéed peppers, aromatic spices, and perfectly poached eggs. It’s special because it transforms humble ingredients into a comforting and visually stunning meal that works beautifully for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. Served with crusty bread, every bite is warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying.

Detailed Ingredients

Vegetable Base

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce & Seasoning

• 1 can (400 g / 14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Eggs

• 4–5 large eggs

Garnish

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

For Serving

• Crusty artisan bread or toasted sourdough slices

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables
   Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in all bell peppers and cook for another 5–6 minutes until tender.
2. Add Garlic & Spices
   Stir in minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Build the Sauce
   Add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well and let simmer for 10–12 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Create Wells for the Eggs
   Use a spoon to make small wells in the sauce. Crack the eggs carefully into each well.
5. Cook the Eggs
   Cover the skillet and cook for 5–8 minutes, depending on how runny you like the yolks.
6. Garnish & Serve
   Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro over the top. Serve immediately with warm crusty bread for dipping.

Tips, Variations & Storage

Tips

• Use ripe tomatoes or high-quality canned tomatoes for richer flavor.
• Keep heat low after adding eggs for gentle poaching.

Variations

• Add crumbled feta cheese for creaminess.
• Include spicy sausage or ground beef for a heartier meal.
• Add spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables.

Storage

• Store leftover sauce separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat sauce before adding fresh eggs.

Pairings

• Bread: Sourdough, pita, or baguette
• Sides: Cucumber salad, olives, roasted potatoes
• Drinks: Mint tea, fresh juice, cappuccino
• Wine (optional): Dry rosé or light-bodied red wine

Quick Info

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 3–4
• Cuisine: North African / Mediterranean