Alton Brown Shakshuka Recipe – Simple Food Dishes

When it comes to breakfast or brunch, shakshuka stands out as a colorful, tasteful dish. It’s known for poached eggs nestled in a savory tomato sauce with spices. Personally, I love enjoying it with crusty bread. 

It’s perfect for scooping up the rich sauce and perfectly runny egg yolk. Pairing this dish with some refreshing tzatziki or a creamy avocado salad can elevate your dining experience. Ready to dive deeper into Alton Brown’s famous shakshuka? Let’s dig in!

What is Alton Brown Shakshuka?

Alton Brown’s shakshuka is a delightful variation of this traditional dish. It brings in the essence of spices, fresh ingredients, and of course, farm-fresh eggs. The robust tomato sauce forms the foundation, enriched with garlic, peppers, and spices that make each bite memorable.

What makes Alton’s version distinctive? Here’s why it works so well.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Perfect Balance of Flavors
   Alton masterfully layers flavors in this dish. The sweetness from the bell peppers, the acidity from the tomatoes, and the warmth of spices meld together. Each spoonful is a delightful blend.
2. Fresh Ingredients Matter
   Using ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs amplifies this dish. The subtle sweetness of fresh tomatoes matched with vibrant spices creates a comforting yet exciting taste.
3. Simple Yet Versatile
   This recipe allows for personal touches. Want a spicy kick? Toss in some extra chili paste. Prefer it milder? Cut back on the spices. The base remains the same, but the options are endless.
4. Nutritional Powerhouse
   Eggs provide high-quality protein. Combine that with the vitamins and minerals in vegetables, and you’ve got a wholesome meal that fuels your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Alton Brown Shakshuka

To create this masterpiece, gather these ingredients:

Main Dish:

• ¼ cup premium cold-pressed olive oil
• 3 large cloves of garlic, thinly sliced into delicate slivers
• 2 vibrant red bell peppers
• 2 pounds ripe beefsteak tomatoes, halved and seeds removed
• 1½ teaspoons coarse kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon rich, molasses-kissed dark brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons Smoky Urfa Harissa (recipe follows)
• 2 teaspoons Zesty Quick-Preserved Lemon Mash (recipe follows)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon Aleppo pepper flakes
• 6 large farm-fresh eggs
• Chopped fresh Italian parsley, for a burst of freshness

Smoky Urfa Harissa:

• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• ¼ cup high-quality extra-virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup aged red wine vinegar
• 8 large cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 cup Turkish Urfa Biber Chili Flakes
• 3 tablespoons rich tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon earthy caraway seeds
• 1 tablespoon flaky kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons aromatic cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon fragrant coriander seeds

Zesty Quick-Preserved Lemons:

• 4 whole lemons, thoroughly scrubbed and patted dry
• Juice of 1 lemon
• ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 40 grams coarse kosher salt

How To Make This?

Let’s break down the steps for creating Alton Brown shakshuka.

Step 1: Prepare the Smoky Urfa Harissa

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.

Mix in the chili flakes, tomato paste, caraway seeds, salt, cinnamon, cumin, and coriander. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Create the Zesty Quick-Preserved Lemons

• Slice lemons into quarters, removing seeds.
• Mix lemon juice, ginger, and salt in a bowl.
• Toss the quartered lemons in this mixture. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before using.

Step 3: Prepare the Base

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil on medium-high. Add garlic and sauté until golden.
• Toss in the chopped bell peppers and cook until soft. Aim for about 8-10 minutes.
• Add tomatoes, salt, brown sugar, harissa, preserved lemon mash, paprika, and Aleppo pepper. Stir well.

Step 4: Poach the Eggs

• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
• Using a spoon, make small wells in the sauce. Crack an egg into each well.
• Cover the skillet and cook until the eggs are just set, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

• Garnish with chopped Italian parsley. Serve hot, with crusty bread on the side.

Tips

To ensure the perfect shakshuka experience, consider these tips:

• Use Good Quality Ingredients: They make a significant difference in flavor. Fresh tomatoes and high-quality olive oil are a must.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the amount of harissa.
• Watch the Eggs: For runny yolks, keep an eye on the cooking time. Adjust as per your preference.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute eggs with tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based alternative.
• Experiment with Veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can be tossed in for extra nutrition and flavor.

How to Store The Leftovers?

Shakshuka is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If possible, reheat eggs separately as they may become overcooked when reheated.

Recommended Side Dishes for Alton Brown Shakshuka

Enhance your meal with these sides:

Crusty Bread

A necessity! Freshly baked bread soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully. Consider sourdough or a baguette.

Simple Green Salad

A light mix of lettuce, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette can balance the meal. It adds a refreshing bite.

Hummus

A creamy side like hummus adds a wonderful texture. Enjoy it with pita chips or fresh veggies.

Roasted Potatoes

Crispy, seasoned roasted potatoes can round your meal nicely. They provide a contrasting texture to the shakshuka.

Substitute Options for Ingredients

Sometimes, you might not have all the ingredients on hand. Here are some substitutes:

Tomatoes:

Use canned crushed tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available. They are convenient and flavorful.

Harissa:

If you can’t find harissa, consider using sriracha or a mix of chili powder and olive oil.

Bell Peppers:

In a pinch, zucchini or eggplant can work as great alternatives, adding a different flavor profile.

Fresh Parsley:

Cilantro or chives can be used instead. Both offer a fresh taste to your dish.

Conclusion

Alton Brown’s shakshuka is more than just a breakfast dish. It’s a bedrock of flavor, nutrition, and creativity. Perfect for any meal of the day, it embodies warmth and satisfaction. 

By integrating fresh ingredients and spices, you can create a dish that not only fills you up but also excites your taste buds. 

Dive into this recipe, make it your own, and enjoy every bite. There’s a whole world of flavor waiting for you in this skillet! So, grab your ingredients and get cooking—happiness is just a few eggs away!

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