Shakshouka topped with mint, scallions and fresh lime

Some dishes are meant to be enjoyed in a way that the plate needs to be left clean, like unused. May be it's the Spanish in me, but I cannot resist eating sauces or dishes like shakshouka without bread. You'd be missing out if you don't!

And so, what is shakshouka? Shakshouka, or shakshuka, is a Middle Eastern dish consisting of a base made of tomato and spices, and topped with eggs, which are cooked in the same pan. It's a sort of Middle eastern huevos rancheros, delicious and incredibly versatile. Also, this is a very hands-on, easy recipe, that anybody can do!

I like topping my shakshuka with fresh mint, scallions and a squeeze of fresh lime. It really is that little thing that elevates this whole dish, and adds that extra freshness. Incredible side dishes are salads, like the traditional tabbouleh.

Shakshouka topped with mint, scallions and fresh lime

Ingredients:

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 shallot, finely julienned

1/2 red pepper, diced in tiny cubes

1 can of crashed tomatoes

1 teaspoon chilli pepper flakes

1 teaspoon coriander powder

1/4 teaspoon cumin powder

1/2 teaspoon sweet cayenne pepper

1/2 teaspoon chilli powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

5 eggs

Olive oil

1 scallion

1 small bunch of mint

For serving:

Bread, ideally slices of baguette or a loaf of sourdough

Instructions:

1. In a large pan, heat olive oil to medium heat. Add the garlic, cook for 30 seconds, and then add the onion. Stir often to avoid browning.

2. Add the red pepper, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5 minutes until the pepper softens.

3. Then, add the can of crashed tomatoes, all the spices and the juice of half lime - reserve the other half for serving. Stir well, bring to a simmer and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover with the lid and cook for 10 minutes, stirring every 2-3.

4. Once the mixture has thicken, it's time to add the eggs. With the help of a spoon or a ladle, make five little wells, and crack the eggs inside. Cover again with the lid, and cook the eggs for at least 5 minutes, or to your preferred like.

5. Once ready, sprinkle some chopped mint and scallions and top with a good drizzle of lime and olive oil. Serve immediately, hot, with bread, and devoure!

Until next time <3

Montse