Mediterranean Chickpea Shakshuka
This vibrant Mediterranean dish features a rich, spiced tomato and pepper sauce simmered with tender chickpeas and topped with perfectly poached eggs. It’s a comforting, protein-packed meal ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
⏱️ Time Required
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp ground coriander
¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 large eggs
¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Optional: crumbled feta cheese for garnish
Bread or pita, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and diced red bell pepper; cook another 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Add Spices and Tomatoes
1. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, and chili flakes if using; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add diced tomatoes with juices and chickpeas. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes until sauce thickens.
Step 3: Poach Eggs
1. Make four small wells in the sauce.
2. Crack an egg into each well.
3. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat for 6-8 minutes until eggs are cooked to your liking.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
1. Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro and crumbled feta on top.
2. Serve immediately with crusty bread or warm pita.
Notes
For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt when serving.
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili flakes.
You can add spinach or kale to the sauce for extra greens.
Tips
Use fresh eggs for best poaching results.
If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water to loosen it.
Leftovers are great reheated for breakfast or lunch.
❓ Questions & Answers
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Omit eggs and feta, and add extra chickpeas or tofu scramble for protein.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: The tomato-chickpea sauce can be frozen, but eggs do not freeze well.
Q: What’s a good side?
A: Serve with warm pita, crusty bread, or a simple green salad.
️ Nutritional Information
Calories ~320 kcal
Protein ~18 g
Fat ~14 g
Carbohydrates ~28 g
Fiber ~8 g
Sodium ~600 mg