Shakshuka

By AVISHAG BEN MENASHE

As an Israeli, shakshuka is one of my favorite dishes.

I grew up with it from a young age.

It was a staple in my home, and its strong flavors and robust colors seem to capture the very essence of Israel in a single serving.

But in fact, shashlik is not an Israeli dish. It is originally from North African, and was brought to the Jewish State by immigrants from that region.

Whatever its origins, shakshuka was soon incorporated into the hodgepodge of culinary treasures that became Israeli cuisine. Basically, it is a wholesome stew of tomatoes with garlic, hot pepper and eggs. There are many different types of shakshuka, and each one has a different means of preparation, most of which are simple and easy to prepare.

Here is my recipe, for the shakshuka I make for my family.

Hard to resist, this hardy dish is suitable for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and can be eaten as an accompaniment or a main dish.

Ingredients:

8 to10 red, ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped

3 to 4 cloves of crushed or finely chopped garlic

1 finely chopped green hot pepper (or more, for those who like it hot)

A teaspoon of chicken soup powder

Half a teaspoon of hot red chili peppers

1 teaspoon of paprika

A quarter to a half teaspoon of ground black pepper (depending on taste)

4 to 5 eggs

4 tablespoons of vegetable oil

Several sprigs of chopped coriander or parsley

Salt, to taste

Preparation:

In a pan or large pot, heat the oil, add the hot pepper and stir. After about a minute, add the garlic and stir for another minute until well mixed.

Add the tomatoes, stir and cook over low heat for about 20 minutes.

Season and mix.

Make indentations in the tomato stew and pour the eggs into the contents.

Cover and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes on very low heat, until well blended.

When the eggs are ready, sprinkle chopped coriander or parsley, ground pepper and a drop of coarse salt on top.

Serves four.

Total preparation time: about 30 minutes.

AVISHAG BEN MENASHE is an Israeli-born mother and wife who loves to cook, write recipes and share original tips and ideas that will make cooking in any kitchen a true celebration of life. For more recipes and culinary inspiration, check out her Instagram page.