Shakshuka with Feta - A Perfect Middle Eastern Delight
Shakshuka with Feta is a simple yet delicious dish that originates from North Africa and the Middle East. This savory and vibrant meal consists of poached eggs simmered in a rich tomato sauce, often spiced with cumin, paprika, and chili flakes.
While shakshuka itself is already bursting with flavor, the addition of crumbled feta cheese elevates this dish, adding a creamy and tangy note that balances the spices perfectly.
Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, shakshuka with feta is a crowd-pleaser that's easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
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What is Shakshuka with Feta?
Shakshuka with Feta is an adaptation of the traditional shakshuka dish that incorporates feta cheese. This delicious addition enhances the creaminess and flavor, making the dish richer and more satisfying.
The base of this dish remains the same: a spicy tomato sauce made with onions, garlic, and a variety of spices, with eggs poached directly in the sauce.
However, when feta is crumbled on top, it melts slightly into the sauce, creating a savory blend of tangy cheese and spicy tomatoes that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients You Need for Shakshuka with Feta
To make shakshuka with feta, you’ll need a handful of simple and easily accessible ingredients. Most of these items are pantry staples, so it’s a dish that can be prepared quickly. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Olive oil – A Mediterranean staple, essential for sautéing the vegetables and adding richness to the dish.
- Onions and garlic – These provide the base flavor for the tomato sauce.
- Bell peppers – For a touch of sweetness and additional texture.
- Canned tomatoes – The heart of the sauce. You can use fresh tomatoes, but canned work well for convenience.
- Spices – Common spices include cumin, paprika, chili flakes, and coriander for a burst of flavor.
- Eggs – The star of the dish, poached in the simmering sauce.
- Feta cheese – The perfect topping, adding creaminess and tang to the dish.
- Fresh herbs – Such as cilantro or parsley, for garnish and freshness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Shakshuka with Feta
Making shakshuka with feta is a straightforward process, and even beginners can master it with ease. Here's how to make it:
- Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then add minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the spices: Stir in the cumin, paprika, and chili flakes, allowing them to bloom in the oil for about 30 seconds. This step is essential for bringing out the full depth of the spices.
- Make the sauce: Add the canned tomatoes (or fresh, chopped tomatoes if you prefer) to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
- Create the egg wells: Using the back of a spoon, make small wells in the sauce. Crack an egg into each well, being careful not to break the yolk.
- Poach the eggs: Cover the skillet with a lid and let the eggs cook for about 5 minutes, or until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny. If you prefer firmer yolks, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Add the feta: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the shakshuka just before the eggs are fully cooked. Cover again and allow the cheese to soften slightly into the sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Once the eggs are cooked to your liking and the feta has melted slightly, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro and serve immediately, preferably with warm pita bread or crusty baguette on the side.
Why Feta Cheese Makes a Difference
The inclusion of feta cheese in shakshuka might seem like a small change, but it transforms the dish in several key ways.
First, feta adds a tangy, creamy texture that cuts through the richness of the tomato sauce, balancing the flavors perfectly.
Additionally, feta’s saltiness enhances the taste of the eggs and spices, creating a more robust and layered flavor profile. For those who enjoy cheese, feta shakshuka offers a delightful twist on the traditional version that’s sure to please.
Variations of Shakshuka with Feta
While the classic shakshuka with feta is delicious as is, there are several variations you can try to suit your taste or dietary preferences:
- Green Shakshuka: Instead of using tomatoes, create a base with green vegetables like spinach, kale, and zucchini. The feta still adds a wonderful creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Spicy Shakshuka: For those who love heat, add extra chili peppers or hot sauce to the tomato base. The feta will help temper the spice, creating a harmonious balance.
- Meat Shakshuka: Add crumbled sausage, chorizo, or ground lamb for a heartier, more filling dish. The feta pairs beautifully with these rich meats.
These variations keep the core concept of shakshuka intact while allowing you to experiment with different flavors and textures.
Shakshuka with Feta: A Dish for Any Occasion
Shakshuka with feta isn’t just for breakfast—it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you’re serving it for brunch with friends, as a quick weeknight dinner, or even as a light lunch, this meal is both satisfying and nourishing.
The combination of eggs, tomatoes, and feta creates a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a wholesome option for those looking for a nutritious yet indulgent meal.
Its simplicity and adaptability also mean that you can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic go-to for busy days. Moreover, it’s an excellent dish for entertaining, as it’s easy to scale up and serve family-style directly from the skillet.
Shakshuka with Feta: A Tangy Twist on a Classic
Incorporating feta into shakshuka adds an extra layer of complexity and flavor that takes this dish to new heights.
The salty, creamy texture of feta cheese contrasts beautifully with the spicy, savory tomato base, creating a meal that’s rich, satisfying, and utterly delicious.
Whether you're a fan of traditional shakshuka or looking to try something new, shakshuka with feta is a must-try dish for anyone who enjoys bold, flavorful cuisine.
Enjoy this Easy video tutorial about Shakshuka with Feta
Source: NYT Cooking
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