Poached Eggs in Spiced Sauce (Printable Version)

Tender eggs poached in a rich, spiced tomato and pepper sauce, ideal for brunch or dinner.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
02 - 1 large onion, finely chopped
03 - 1 green bell pepper, chopped
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice

→ Spices & Seasonings

06 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
07 - 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
08 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
09 - Salt, to taste
10 - Black pepper, to taste
11 - 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

→ Eggs

12 - 4 large eggs

→ Garnish (optional)

13 - Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
14 - Crusty bread, for serving

# How To Make It:

01 - Warm vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and green bell pepper; cook for 5 minutes until softened.
02 - Incorporate minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
03 - Mix in ground cumin, sweet paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Add diced tomatoes with their juice, season with salt, pepper, and sugar if desired. Simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until sauce thickens.
05 - Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
06 - Create four wells in the sauce with a spoon; crack one egg into each well.
07 - Cover the skillet and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until egg whites are set and yolks remain soft.
08 - Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired, and serve immediately with crusty bread.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Colorful & wholesome vegetarian meal
  • Uses pantry staples and quick prep
02 -
  • Shakshuka originates from North Africa and is now a staple in Middle Eastern kitchens
  • It is naturally dairy-free and nut-free making it allergy-friendly
03 -
  • Add spinach or beans for extra nutrition
  • Swap bell pepper with any color or use roasted peppers for depth
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