Shakshouka

Shashouka (also spelled Shashuka) is a dish that is popular in the Middle East and North Africa. Essentially, it is a mixture of tomato, chillies or capsicums and onions, with eggs on top. It is cooked in a pan, and then the oven to cook the eggs. While there seem to be quite a few varieties, this one is rich, warming and full of flavour.

Ingredients:

• 1 400g tin diced tomatoes
• 2-3 Capsicums (any variety)
• 1-2 birds eye chillies (you can add more to up the heat)
• 3-4 garlic cloves
• 1/2 spanish onion
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• 2-3 eggs (depends on how many people)

Optional Extras:

• Sumac ( A Middle Eastern spice)
• Potatoes (make it more of a breakfast hash)
• Other vegetables work great too (asparagus, beans etc…)

Method:

1. Heat a cast iron pan to a medium heat, and add a drizzle of olive oil. Preheat oven to 150 – 160C
2. Chop onions and garlic finely, add to the pan and saute for a few minutes
3. Add chillies, capsicums and other ingredients, stirring throughout
4. Add tinned tomatoes and spices
5. Simmer for a few minutes, stirring throughout.
6. Make a small space for each egg that you want, and then carefully crack the egg into the gap.
7. Put in the oven for 10 minutes
8. Serve with toast or sourdough

Tags: Breakfast, cooking, tomato