StudentMealSaver

Budget Friendly Meals and tips for Students

Shakshuka (Middle Eastern)

Savor the Flavours of the Middle East!

Transport your taste buds to the Middle East with this flavorful and aromatic dish known as Shakshuka! This popular Middle Eastern dish features eggs poached in a rich and spicy tomato sauce, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal that’s budget-friendly and full of exotic flavors. Plus, we’ll share some tips on how to make a vegetarian version of this delightful dish. Let’s get cooking!

Tips:

  • You can easily make a vegetarian version of Shakshuka by omitting the eggs and adding more vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the tomato mixture for a hearty and flavorful vegetable stew.
  • Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the vegetables you choose, as different vegetables may require different cooking times.
  • You can also add plant-based protein options such as tofu, chickpeas, or lentils for extra protein and texture.
  • If using tofu, be sure to press and cube it before adding it to the tomato mixture and cook for about 5-7 minutes to allow it to absorb the flavors.
  • If using chickpeas or lentils, you can add them directly to the tomato mixture and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes to allow them to absorb the flavors.

Serving: 4

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Cost: $6-8

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using), and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Reduce the heat to low, and let the tomato mixture cook for about 5-7 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
  6. Using a spoon, create small wells in the tomato mixture and carefully crack the eggs into the wells.
  7. Season the eggs with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
  8. Cover the skillet or pan with a lid and let the eggs cook over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, until the whites are set but the yolks are still slightly runny.
  9. Remove the lid and sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish.
  10. Serve the Shakshuka hot with crusty bread or pita bread for dipping and enjoy!

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4-6 large eggs
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
  • Crusty bread or pita bread for serving