Shakshuka: A Perfect Beginner-Friendly Dish

Steps

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1. 1
   Prepare two onions by roughly chopping them. Select a shallow pan with good depth and a lid for cooking.
   ▶ ≈0:42
2. 2
   Add two tablespoons of oil to the pan and heat until it sizzles to release the aromatic flavours.
   ▶ ≈1:46
3. 3
   Add the chopped onions and one teaspoon of cumin seeds. Cook the onions until softened.
   ▶ ≈2:06
4. 4
   Add 3-4 minced garlic cloves and one tablespoon of minced ginger. Cook on medium heat for about a minute until fragrant and the raw flavour is cooked out.
   ▶ ≈3:39
5. 5
   Add the prepared peppers and cook for a couple of minutes, being careful not to overcook them since tomatoes will be added next.
   ▶ ≈4:15
6. 6
   Pour in the 400g can of chopped tomatoes and fill the can halfway with water, then add that to the pan as well.
   ▶ ≈4:34
7. 7
   Cover the pan and cook on low-medium heat for 15 minutes. The added water prevents burning and allows the flavours to meld together beautifully.
   ▶ ≈4:57
8. 8
   When the timer goes off, carefully open the lid by tilting it first to let condensation drip back into the pan. The sauce should have thickened slightly but still have some liquid for cooking the eggs.
   ▶ ≈5:16
9. 9
   Add two teaspoons of ground cumin. Optionally add either one teaspoon of chilli oil or one tablespoon of harissa paste for smoky, spicy depth. Stir well to combine.
   ▶ ≈5:46
10. 10
    Add half a teaspoon of salt and stir. This is the point where you can add optional variations like chopped spinach, drained chickpeas, beans, or lentils if desired.
    ▶ ≈7:17
11. 11
    Using a spoon, create four small wells or craters in the sauce. Gently crack the eggs and place one egg in each well.
    ▶ ≈8:34
12. 12
    Cover the pan and set a timer for three minutes. This cooks the egg whites until set while keeping the yolks beautifully runny.
    ▶ ≈9:27
13. 13
    When the timer sounds, open the pan and sprinkle with black pepper and fresh dill or other fresh herbs. Serve immediately while hot.
    ▶ ≈10:07