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Easy Budget-Friendly Shakshuka with Eggs Recipe for Beginners

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A simple, budget-friendly shakshuka recipe using pantry staples and eggs poached in a flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect for beginners and ready in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 23 garlic cloves, minced
  • 28 oz (800 g) canned diced tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but recommended)
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 46 large eggs
  • A few tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • Optional add-ins: diced bell peppers, spinach, crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a skillet until shimmering but not smoking (about 2 minutes).
  2. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until soft and translucent.
  3. Stir in minced garlic, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and add 1 tablespoon tomato paste. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes until sauce thickens slightly, stirring occasionally.
  6. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  7. Make small wells in the sauce and crack one egg into each well. Cover the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes depending on desired yolk doneness (7 minutes recommended).
  8. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the top before serving. Optionally, crumble feta cheese on top.

Notes

If sauce is too thick before adding eggs, add a few tablespoons of water to loosen. Crack eggs into a small bowl first to avoid breaking yolks. Use medium to low heat to prevent burning. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat gently on stovetop with added water if needed. For dairy-free, omit feta or use plant-based cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: shakshuka, eggs, budget-friendly, easy recipe, beginner, tomato sauce, poached eggs, quick dinner