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Easy Shakshuka for One

easy shakshuka for one - featured image

A quick, flavorful single-serving skillet meal featuring poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, perfect for solo dinners or late-night cravings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes (San Marzano preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika for milder flavor)
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
  • Optional extras: crumbled feta cheese, diced bell peppers, or a squeeze of lemon

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the tomato paste; stir well to combine.
  5. Add smoked paprika, ground cumin, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to distribute spices evenly.
  6. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened.
  7. Create two small wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each well without stirring.
  8. Reduce heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid or foil. Poach the eggs for 5-7 minutes depending on desired yolk consistency (about 6 minutes for soft set).
  9. Check that egg whites are set and yolks are still slightly runny; cook longer if firmer eggs are preferred.
  10. Remove skillet from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro, and add crumbled feta if desired.
  11. Serve immediately, ideally with warm crusty bread or pita for dipping.

Notes

If sauce is too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to balance. Add a splash of water or broth if sauce thickens too fast before eggs are done. Crack eggs into a small bowl before adding to sauce to avoid shell bits. Covering the skillet traps steam and helps eggs cook evenly; foil can substitute for a lid.

Nutrition

Keywords: shakshuka, single serving, easy shakshuka, skillet meal, poached eggs, tomato sauce, quick dinner, solo meal