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Meatball Shakshuka

Meatball Shakshuka

Meatball Shakshuka is a flavorful and hearty Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines tender, spiced meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with poached eggs. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this one-pan meal delivers a satisfying blend of savory spices, fresh herbs, and comforting textures that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground meat (beef, lamb, chicken, or turkey)
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Tomato Sauce & Aromatics

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: chili flakes or harissa for heat

Eggs & Garnish

  • 46 fresh eggs
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: crumbled feta or goat cheese
  • Optional: drizzle of olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a bowl, combine the ground meat with finely minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and shape into small, even meatballs for uniform cooking.
  2. Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides for about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside to keep juicy.
  3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant, building the savory base for the sauce.
  4. Simmer the Tomato Sauce: Pour in crushed tomatoes and season with salt, pepper, and optional spices like chili flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently to develop deep flavors.
  5. Return Meatballs and Cook Through: Nestle the browned meatballs into the tomato sauce, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until fully cooked.
  6. Add Eggs: Create small wells in the sauce and crack fresh eggs into each well. Cover and cook until the egg whites are set but yolks are still runny.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the top, add optional crumbled cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately with warm crusty bread, pita, or a side of couscous or rice.

Notes

  • Make sure meatballs are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
  • Keep tomato sauce at a low simmer to prevent toughening the meatballs.
  • Use the freshest eggs possible for best poaching results.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking to balance acidity and spice.
  • Let the dish rest a few minutes off the heat before serving to meld flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Meatball Shakshuka, Mediterranean, meatballs, shakshuka, poached eggs, tomato sauce, one-pan meal