There’s something magical about breaking into a perfectly poached egg nestled in a spicy, aromatic tomato sauce. Shakshuka, a beloved North African and Middle Eastern dish, has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. This humble yet impressive one-pan wonder transforms simple ingredients into a feast for both the eyes and palate. Our version elevates the classic with a drizzle of fragrant herb oil and creamy feta crumbles, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your tongue with every bite.
Whether you’re hosting a leisurely weekend brunch or seeking a comforting dinner, this Shakshuka with Herb Oil and Feta delivers on all fronts. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its vibrant presentation but also in its versatility. It’s equally at home on a rustic wooden table for a casual family meal as it is the centerpiece of an elegant gathering. The combination of the rich tomato base, runny egg yolks, aromatic herbs, and tangy feta creates a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing – the perfect balance for any meal of the day.
Originating from North Africa and embraced throughout the Middle East, particularly in Tunisia and Israel, Shakshuka has a rich cultural heritage. The name itself is believed to come from Arabic or Berber, meaning “mixture.” Traditionally served directly from the pan it’s cooked in, this communal dish embodies the warmth and hospitality central to Mediterranean dining culture. Our version respects these roots while introducing complementary elements that enhance its already impressive profile.
Shakshuka with Herb Oil and Feta
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and thinly sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 cans (14 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 6-8 large eggs
- 5 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh herbs for serving (parsley, cilantro, or mint)
For the Herb Oil:
- ½ cup mixed fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, basil, mint)
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove
- Zest of half a lemon
- Pinch of salt
For Serving:
- Warm pita bread or crusty sourdough
- Lemon wedges
- Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Herb Oil:
- Combine all herb oil ingredients in a food processor or blender.
- Pulse until herbs are finely chopped but not completely pureed.
- Transfer to a small bowl and set aside to allow flavors to meld.
Make the Shakshuka Base:
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat.
- Add onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in cumin, paprika, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Toast the spices for 30 seconds until aromatic.
- Pour in diced tomatoes with their juices and add tomato paste. Stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add the Eggs and Finish:
- Using a spoon, create small wells in the tomato mixture for each egg.
- Carefully crack each egg into its own well.
- Cover the pan and cook for 5-8 minutes, until egg whites are set but yolks remain runny (or longer if you prefer firmer yolks).
- Remove from heat and sprinkle crumbled feta over the top.
- Drizzle with the prepared herb oil.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs.
- Serve immediately with warm bread and lemon wedges.
The key to exceptional shakshuka lies in building layers of flavor. Begin by properly caramelizing your onions – don’t rush this step. The natural sweetness developed during this process creates a foundation that balances the acidity of the tomatoes. When adding your spices, toasting them briefly in the oil releases their essential oils, intensifying their impact on the final dish. Remember that shakshuka is forgiving – if you prefer more heat, add extra cayenne or a diced jalapeño to the base.
The herb oil is what transforms this shakshuka from excellent to extraordinary. While the recipe suggests a blend of herbs, feel free to experiment based on what’s available or in season. The brightness of this vibrant green oil cuts through the richness of the dish, while the lemon zest adds a subtle citrus note that awakens all the flavors. Make extra herb oil – it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week and makes an incredible finishing touch for soups, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats.
When it comes to serving shakshuka, embrace its communal nature. Bring the entire pan to the table and let everyone dive in with pieces of bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. The contrast between the warm, spiced tomato base and the cool, creamy feta creates a delightful temperature play that makes each bite exciting. For a complete meal, consider serving a simple side salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil to cut through the richness of the main dish.
While this recipe calls for bell peppers, you can personalize your shakshuka by incorporating seasonal vegetables. In summer, try adding diced zucchini or eggplant; in fall, roasted butternut squash adds sweetness and body. For an extra protein boost, chorizo or merguez sausage browned before adding the onions creates a more substantial version. Vegetarians might enjoy adding chickpeas or white beans to the tomato base for added texture and nutrition.
The beauty of shakshuka lies in its adaptability across mealtimes. For breakfast, serve smaller portions with a side of yogurt and fresh fruit. For lunch or dinner, increase the portion size and pair with a grain-based side like couscous or bulgur. Leftover shakshuka base (without the eggs) can be refrigerated for up to three days – simply reheat, create wells, and add fresh eggs for a quick meal later in the week.
As you enjoy this vibrant dish, take a moment to appreciate how it connects you to centuries of culinary tradition. From the bustling markets of Tunis to the breakfast tables of Tel Aviv, shakshuka has brought people together over shared meals for generations. Now, with your own personalized version enhanced by herb oil and feta, you’re adding your chapter to this delicious story. So gather your loved ones, break bread, and dive into this simmering pan of comfort – a true celebration of Mediterranean cuisine at its finest.
