- **Egg:** Perfectly cooked within the tomato-based sauce.
- **Tomatoes:** Fresh or canned, providing the base of the dish.
- **Onions:** Finely chopped for a sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- **Garlic:** Cloves minced to release intense aromatics when sautéed.
- **Bell Peppers:** Optional; adds color and mild sweetness to the shakshuka.
- **Ginger:** A small piece ground or finely chopped, adding depth of flavor.
- **Red Bell Pepper Paste:** Optional, for an extra layer of spice and heat.
- **Turmeric Powder:** For a vibrant golden color and subtle warmth in taste.
- **Cumin:** Essential for the earthy flavor that pairs well with tomatoes.
- **Paprika:** Adds smokiness and a hint of sweetness to the dish.
- **Coriander:** Seeds or ground, providing a warm spice note.
- **Garam Masala:** A blend of spices that enhances complexity and warmth.
- **Salt:** To taste; enhances all other flavors in the shakshuka.
- **Black Pepper:** For an extra kick of flavor.
- **Olive Oil:** High-quality olive oil for sautéing onions, peppers, and garlic.
- **Fresh Herbs:** Optional; such as parsley or cilantro, to garnish before serving.
- **Lemon Juice:** Squeezed over the eggs just before serving for a burst of freshness.
- **Feta Cheese:** Crumbled on top as an optional ingredient for added creaminess and saltiness.
*Keywords included: Chef John's Shakshuka, Egg, Tomatoes, Onions, Garlic, Bell Peppers, Ginger, Red Bell Pepper Paste, Turmeric Powder, Cumin, Paprika, Coriander, Garam Masala, Salt, Black Pepper, Olive Oil, Fresh Herbs, Lemon Juice, Feta Cheese*
Steps
## Delicious Chef John's Shakshuka Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
### Introduction to Chef John's Shakshuka
Chef John's shakshuka is a popular Middle Eastern dish that features eggs poached in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This recipe combines the rich, smoky flavors of paprika with fresh vegetables and spices for a hearty meal perfect for breakfast or brunch.
### Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 3 medium tomatoes, roughly chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 large eggs
- Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
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### Cooking Steps
#### Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
1. **Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the bell peppers** to get them ready for cooking.
2. **Roughly chop the tomatoes** to add a bit of texture.
#### Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
1. Heat **2 tablespoons of olive oil** in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the **onion and garlic**, sautéing until they become translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in the **bell peppers, cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika** (if using). Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
#### Step 3: Add Tomatoes
1. Pour in the **chopped tomatoes** into the skillet.
2. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Allow the mixture to cook down, breaking up any large chunks of tomato as it simmers for about 10-15 minutes.
#### Step 4: Poach the Eggs
1. Carefully crack each **egg into the skillet**. Place them directly on top of the vegetables and sauce.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the eggs cook gently until they are cooked to your desired level (about 5-7 minutes).
#### Step 5: Serve and Garnish
1. Once the eggs are set, remove the pan from heat.
2. Sprinkle **feta cheese** and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
### Conclusion
Chef John's shakshuka is a delightful blend of flavors that can be enjoyed any time of day. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it perfect for both home cooks and experienced chefs alike. Enjoy your meal!
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By following these steps, you can create a flavorful and satisfying Chef John's shakshuka that will be a hit at your next brunch gathering!