For savvy food connoisseurs with more advanced palates, Shakshuka can prove a superior option to traditional egg preparation methods. The name might sound unfamiliar at first, but this dish is a simple skillet meal of eggs baked in a spicy red auce that has certainly stood the test of time. With a history dating back approximately to the Ottoman Empire, the dish has been enjoyed throughout the Middle East, compliments of a host of different preparation methods
Properly prepared, Shakshuka is creamy, and the eggs, although cooked completely, are of a soft, liquid consistency. Shakshuka can be compared to the popular Mexican dish, Huevos Rancheros, in which the eggs are served lightly cooked, accompanied by a savory, spicy chili sauce. Shakshuka is also very similar to the Turkish dish, Menemen, which is typically prepared on the stove only, complete with onions, green peppers, tomatoes, and a smorgasbord of spices such as black pepper and oregano.
Shakshuka, deriving originally from North Africa, is simple to make, nutritious, and can be modified countless ways to offer unique and exciting taste experiences. This dish is a delectable option for both lunch and dinner and is usually served with bread, which is the perfect accompaniment for savoring every last drop of the deletable sauce. Shakshuka is a cost-efficient meal option with simple preparation. To start, several eggs (depending on the size of the pan) are cracked in a skillet and are lightly heated in a spicy sauce with cumin, onions, chili peppers, and tomatoes. Then, the dish is placed in the oven to lightly bake until the ingredients are bound together.
Countless variations of this recipe exist, and additions, such as feta or other salty cheeses, offer a richer, more decadent flavor. For added nutrition and even more flavor, steamed spinach, arugula, or fresh spices, such as dill or basil, can be piled onto this dish once it has completed cooking. The perfect balance of pure protein and nutrition, Shakshuka is a versatile dish that offers aspiring and professional chefs alike a simple, highly-customizable taste sensation that’s sure to satisfy.