Shakshouka Toast

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Shakshouka Toast is the kind of breakfast that wakes up your taste buds and makes your kitchen smell like a cozy Mediterranean café. Think crispy toast piled high with a savory, spiced tomato-pepper mix, crowned with a soft-baked egg that oozes golden yolk the second your fork hits it. It’s the perfect fusion of comfort and flavor, ready in minutes and impressive enough to serve at brunch.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a table of hungry guests, Shakshouka Toast delivers bold, warming flavors with very little effort. The rich tomato base, spiced with cumin and paprika, gives just the right kick, and the baked egg adds a silky richness that ties it all together. Top it with chopped herbs, and you’ve got a colorful, nourishing meal that’s just as satisfying as it looks.

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What Kind of Bread Should I Use?

The heart of Shakshouka Toast is the bread – and not all slices are created equal. You want something sturdy that can hold up to the juicy tomato mixture without becoming soggy. A thick-cut sourdough, rustic country loaf, or multigrain toast is ideal. These options toast up beautifully and offer that golden crunch on the edges while staying soft in the center to soak up all the flavor.

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Ingredients for the Shakshouka Toast

Eggs – The crown jewel of shakshouka. A single egg nestled into the tomato mixture gives this toast its signature look and satisfying richness.

Crushed Tomatoes – The base of the shakshouka sauce. Crushed or diced tomatoes offer the perfect texture and bold flavor to build on.

Bell Pepper – Adds a bit of sweetness and crunch. Red or yellow peppers work best for their natural sweetness.

Yellow Onion – A must for depth of flavor. It sautés beautifully with the spices and adds natural sweetness.

Garlic – Essential for building savory flavor. Freshly minced garlic adds a sharp, aromatic base.

Cumin & Smoked Paprika – These warm spices give the shakshouka its distinct Middle Eastern flair. A touch of chili flakes can be added for heat.

Olive Oil – Used to sauté the veggies and bloom the spices. Adds richness and depth.

Salt & Pepper – For seasoning, of course! A pinch of each goes a long way in balancing the flavors.

Fresh Cilantro or Parsley – A sprinkle of herbs at the end adds a pop of freshness and color.

Thick-Cut Bread – The vessel for all that delicious flavor. Choose a rustic, hearty slice that won’t get soggy.

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How To Make the Shakshouka Toast

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften. Add in the diced bell pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until everything is tender and fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Let the spices bloom for 30 seconds, then add the crushed tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.

Step 3: Toast the Bread

While the tomato mixture simmers, toast your thick-cut bread slices. Use a toaster or a hot skillet with a little olive oil to get that golden-brown crunch.

Step 4: Assemble and Create the Egg Nest

Spoon a generous amount of the shakshouka mixture onto each slice of toast. Using the back of the spoon, create a small well in the center of the tomato mix for the egg.

Step 5: Add the Egg

Carefully crack an egg into each well. Place the toasts on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and yolks are still slightly runny. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. Optionally, add a pinch of chili flakes or your favorite seasoning blend for extra flavor. Serve immediately while the egg is warm and runny.

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How to Serve and Store Shakshouka Toast

Shakshouka Toast is best served hot and fresh, right out of the oven. The eggs should be just-set with a delightfully runny yolk that melts into the spiced tomato base. For a heartier plate, serve it with a side of crisp cucumber salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt. If you’re hosting brunch, plate each toast individually with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful, share-worthy presentation.

If you have leftovers, you can refrigerate the tomato base separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop and prepare a fresh egg to go on top of new toast slices. Fully assembled Shakshouka Toast with egg doesn’t reheat well, as the egg texture changes significantly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of crushed?

Yes! Canned diced tomatoes work fine. Just simmer a bit longer to break them down into a softer consistency.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

You can substitute with regular paprika or add a pinch of cayenne for heat. Smoked paprika adds depth, but the recipe is still delicious without it.

Can I make this dairy-free and gluten-free?

Absolutely. It’s already dairy-free, and to make it gluten-free, just use gluten-free bread.

How do I know when the eggs are done?

Bake until the whites are just set and the yolks are still soft. They’ll continue to firm up slightly after removing from the oven.

Is it possible to make this ahead of time?

You can prep the shakshouka tomato base a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and assemble with toast and egg just before serving for the freshest results.

What herbs go best with this dish?

Cilantro and parsley are classics, but you could also try fresh dill or basil for a twist.

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Want More Toast-Inspired Breakfast Ideas?

If Shakshouka Toast is your thing, you’ll love exploring more savory and creative morning meals. Here are some other favorites to try next:

• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine for a dinner-worthy brunch twist.
• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta when you’re craving something hearty with rich tomato flavor.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donut Holes for a sweet contrast to your savory bites.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for a creamy, protein-packed brunch option.
• Cafeteria Noodles with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites when comfort food is calling.

These recipes are rich in flavor and perfect for mixing up your morning routine or planning a cozy weekend brunch.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest breakfast or brunch board so you can find it anytime: Life with Nina on Pinterest

Have you tried it yet? Let me know how it turned out in the comments below. Did you go classic with parsley or throw on some chili flakes for heat? Did you try it on sourdough or a multigrain loaf?

I’d love to hear your take on it! Feel free to ask questions or share your own spin – let’s get inspired together.

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