FAQs
Shakshuka is a simple dish made of gently poached eggs in a delicious chunky tomato and bell pepper sauce. Said to have originated in Tunisia, this breakfast recipe is popular in many parts of North Africa and the Middle East. It is so satisfying, you can serve it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
How is shakshuka served? ›
Shakshuka is a classic North African and Middle Eastern breakfast dish. This recipe is simple and satisfying, featuring eggs poached in a bell pepper and tomato sauce. Serve it with pita or crusty bread for breakfast or brunch...or dinner!
What are the origins of shakshuka? ›
It is believed to have a Tunisian origin. Shakshuka means "a mixture" or “shaken” in Tunisian dialect. Shakshuka is a staple of Tunisian, Libyan, Algerian, and Moroccan cuisines traditionally served up in a cast iron pan with bread to mop up the sauce (most important).
What is shakshuka in Israel culture? ›
The"original shakshuka" was thought to have been made with vegetables, hard-boiled eggs, goat meat and fresh garlic. In Israel today it is traditionally served for brunch, with soft boiled, poached like eggs in a tomato based slightly spicy sauce.
Do you eat shakshuka with a spoon? ›
It's a quick, flavourful, and satisfying meal, especially after a long day. Also, it is perfectly acceptable to eat shakshuka straight out of the pan, using wedges of pita bread as your spoon. Of course, if you prefer a knife and fork, spoon the eggs with their sauce over lightly toasted bread.
Do you eat shakshuka in a bowl or plate? ›
A deconstructed plate
Slightly fold it in a way you can hold it with your hands, and eat immediately! The other option consists in adding all the ingredients in a plate, together with some pita triangles (you can warm them up a little beforehand) and eat the shakshuka plate with fork and knife!
Is shakshuka served in cast iron or stainless steel? ›
“Shakshuka should be made and served in a cast iron pan.”
While you do want a pan that can take the level of heat you are willing to apply, there's no need to strip the seasoning off your favorite heirloom cast iron.
What country eats shakshuka? ›
Shakshuka (also spelt with an O, shakshouka), is a staple dish on any Israeli breakfast table. In fact, they eat it at breakfast, lunch and dinner – both at home and in restaurants. The dish is so popular here that it's considered right up there with falafels and hummus as the best of Israeli cuisine.
Can you eat shakshuka by itself? ›
Shakshuka is traditionally eaten with bread. Try a crusty variety like a sliced baguette to go with your shakshuka, or try it with warm pita bread or naan. You could also eat shakshuka on its own, or with rice if you prefer!
Why is shakshuka so popular? ›
Today, shakshuka is most strongly associated with the Middle East and Israel in particular, where it was introduced by Jewish immigrants from Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria, and Libya. It's always been an affordable, filling, and undemanding meal, so it's no wonder it keeps gaining popularity all over the world.
Originally coming from countries like Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, Algeria and Morocco it became popular in Israel from the Tunisian Jews. Some people believe the dish was invented in the Ottoman Empire and spread throughout the Middle East – often served with a spicy sausage.
Did the Israelites eat eggs? ›
Game, birds, eggs, and fish, especially fresh and saltwater fish, were also eaten, depending on availability. Non-kosher fish consumption was also very common until the first century CE. Most food was eaten fresh and in season. Fruits and vegetables had to be eaten as they ripened and before they spoiled.
What is the difference between shakshuka and menemen? ›
The spice varieties vary depending on where it's served. Shakshuka features a thick, saucy tomato base of peppers and onions with baked eggs. With menemen, the concept is a little different. Think of it as more of a soft egg scramble with lots of silky green peppers and fresh tomato.
What is traditionally served with shakshuka? ›
Shakshuka is traditionally served with warm, crusty bread or pita. However, you can also pair it with a variety of other side toppings such as avocado, feta cheese, or a simple salad.
What does shakshuka originate? ›
Shakshuka is a simple dish made of gently poached eggs in a delicious chunky tomato and bell pepper sauce. Said to have originated in Tunisia, this breakfast recipe is popular in many parts of North Africa and the Middle East.
How to eat eggs shakshuka? ›
Crack eggs and evenly distribute over the surface of the sauce. Cover skillet and cook until the yolks are cooked to your liking, about 5-7 minutes. Remove lid and baste whites with the sauce, trying not to break the yolks. Sprinkle shakshuka with feta and parsley and serve with crusty bread or warm pita for dipping.
Is shakshuka Israeli or African? ›
Even though many people today associate shakshuka with Israel, it actually originated in North Africa and the Ottoman Empire: the only reason shakshuka is eaten in Israel is because North African Jewish immigrants brought it there.
