Shak-shak Recipe: Middle Eastern Poached Eggs in Spiced Tomato Sauce

Shak-shak is a beloved dish that hails from the Middle East and North Africa, consisting of eggs poached in a fragrant, spiced tomato sauce.

It’s a one-pan wonder that is easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch, or a satisfying dinner, shak-shak never fails to deliver.

What is Shak-shak?

Shak-shak, which means “a mixture” in Arabic, is a dish deeply rooted in Middle Eastern and North African cuisine. While its exact origins are debated, it is particularly popular in countries like Tunisia, Israel, Morocco, and Turkey. The dish features a rich tomato base infused with spices such as cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper, into which eggs are gently poached. It is typically served with crusty bread or pita to scoop up the flavorful sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry staples, this dish is budget-friendly and easy to put together.
One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup required!
Customizable – Add vegetables, cheese, or meat to suit your taste.
Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with protein, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Ingredients:

For the Tomato Sauce:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
½ cup water (if needed, to thin the sauce)
½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for garnish)
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Eggs:

4-6 large eggs
Extra salt and black pepper, to season the eggs

For Serving:

Warm pita bread, naan, or crusty sourdough
Harissa or hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with salt, black pepper, and sugar (if using), and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened. If it gets too thick, add a bit of water.

Step 2: Poach the Eggs

Using a spoon, create small wells in the sauce and carefully crack the eggs into them.
Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the eggs are set but still slightly runny in the center. For firmer eggs, cook a bit longer.
Season the eggs with additional salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and fresh chopped cilantro or parsley.
Serve hot with warm bread to scoop up the delicious sauce.

Tips for the Best Shak-shak

Use Fresh Spices – Freshly ground cumin and paprika make a world of difference.
Adjust Heat Level – Add more cayenne or chili flakes for extra spice.
Don’t Overcook the Eggs – If you prefer runny yolks, keep a close eye on them.
Experiment with Add-ins – Try adding chickpeas, spinach, or sausage for variation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make shak-shak ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the tomato sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and add fresh eggs to cook.

2. What kind of pan should I use for shak-shak?

A heavy-bottomed skillet, like a cast-iron pan, is ideal. It distributes heat evenly and retains warmth.

3. Can I make shak-shak without eggs?

Absolutely! You can use tofu or chickpeas as a substitute for eggs and still enjoy the flavorful tomato sauce.

4. Is shak-shak spicy?

It has a mild kick, but you can adjust the spice level to your preference by adding or reducing cayenne pepper or using harissa.

5. What goes well with shak-shak?

Shak-shak pairs beautifully with warm pita, crusty bread, hummus, or a fresh side salad.

6. Can I add cheese to shak-shak?

Yes! Feta or goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the rich tomato sauce.

Conclusion

Shak-shak is a timeless and versatile dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether you’re a fan of bold spices, love one-pan meals, or just want to try something new, this shak-shak recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Middle East!