Moroccan Eggs

Moroccan Eggs Recipe - Vegetarian Dish from Morocco

Region / culture: Morocco | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Moroccan Eggs is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the richness of eggs with the vibrant flavors of tomatoes, cumin, and coriander. This dish is perfect for a hearty breakfast or a light dinner.

History

Moroccan Eggs, also known as Shakshuka, originated in North Africa and has since become a popular dish in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. This dish is traditionally made with poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, making it a comforting and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

600 g ripe tomatoes
4 tbsp olive oil
6 spring onions, trimmed and roughly sliced
4 garlic cloves, sliced
1 level teaspoon cumin seeds, roughly ground
pinch of cayenne pepper
0.5 tsp caster sugar
4 medium eggs
3 tbsp roughly chopped parsley or coriander
sea salt and black pepper

How to prepare

Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water and carefully peel off the skins. Cut them into quarters and remove the seeds.
In a frying pan, heat the garlic, spring onion, and cumin with hot oil. Stir for a few minutes until they start to brown.
Add the tomatoes, cayenne, salt, pepper, and sugar to the pan. Simmer for 15 minutes, or less if the tomatoes begin to fall apart.
Crack an egg into each quarter of the pan, spreading the whites carefully with a fork to cover the surface of the tomato mixture.
Continue to simmer for an additional 2 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.

Variations

Add bell peppers or chili peppers for extra heat.
Top with feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Use different herbs like parsley or mint for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to blanch the tomatoes properly to easily remove the skins and seeds.

- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

- Be careful when cracking the eggs into the pan to ensure they are evenly distributed.

- Garnish with fresh coriander for a burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Moroccan Eggs can be served with crusty bread or pita for a complete meal. They can also be paired with a fresh salad for added freshness.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect Moroccan Eggs is to simmer the tomato mixture until it thickens slightly before adding the eggs. This ensures that the eggs cook evenly and the flavors meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cumin seeds, you can use ground cumin instead. You can also use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes for convenience.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the tomato mixture ahead of time and reheat it before adding the eggs. This makes it a great option for meal prep.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Moroccan Eggs in individual bowls or a large platter for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Moroccan Eggs pair well with a side of hummus, tabbouleh, or roasted vegetables. They also go well with a glass of mint tea or a fruity white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Moroccan Eggs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Moroccan Eggs contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Moroccan Eggs contains approximately 12 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Moroccan Eggs contains approximately 18 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Moroccan Eggs contains approximately 12 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Moroccan Eggs are rich in vitamins A and C from the tomatoes, as well as iron and calcium from the eggs.

Alergens

Moroccan Eggs contain eggs and may not be suitable for those with egg allergies.

Summary

Moroccan Eggs are a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy meal option.

Summary

Moroccan Eggs are a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can enjoy this Middle Eastern classic at home.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, during my travels through Morocco, that I stumbled upon a quaint little café tucked away in the bustling streets of Marrakech. The scent of exotic spices filled the air as I entered, and I knew I was in for a culinary adventure unlike any other.

I found a table near the window and ordered a cup of mint tea, a popular drink in Morocco. As I sipped on the fragrant tea, I noticed a dish being served at a nearby table that caught my eye. It was a colorful and aromatic dish of eggs cooked in a spicy tomato sauce, topped with fresh herbs and served with warm, crusty bread. I knew I had to try it.

I called the waiter over and asked him about the dish. He told me it was called "Moroccan Eggs" and that it was a traditional breakfast dish in Morocco. Intrigued, I asked if I could speak to the chef who prepared it. The waiter disappeared into the kitchen and returned with a tall, elderly man with a twinkle in his eye.

The chef introduced himself as Hassan and welcomed me into his kitchen. He showed me how to make the dish, guiding me through each step with patience and skill. I watched in awe as he expertly diced onions, crushed garlic, and mixed spices together in a fragrant blend that made my mouth water.

As the dish simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with its delicious aroma, Hassan shared stories of his childhood in Morocco and the recipes he had learned from his own grandmother. He spoke of the importance of using fresh, local ingredients and cooking with love and care. I listened intently, soaking up every word and savoring every bite of the flavorful dish he had prepared for me.

When the Moroccan Eggs were finally ready, Hassan plated them up with a generous sprinkling of fresh cilantro and a side of warm, crusty bread. I took a bite and was transported to a world of bold flavors and exotic spices. The eggs were perfectly cooked, with the yolk still runny and the sauce bursting with the tangy sweetness of tomatoes and the heat of cumin and paprika.

I savored every bite, sopping up the sauce with the bread and letting the flavors dance on my tongue. I knew then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, a reminder of the beauty and richness of Moroccan cuisine.

As I left the café that day, I thanked Hassan for his generosity and his culinary wisdom. He smiled and handed me a handwritten copy of the recipe for Moroccan Eggs, urging me to share it with my friends and family. I promised him I would, and I have kept that promise ever since.

Now, whenever I make Moroccan Eggs in my own kitchen, I think back to that day in Marrakech and the kindness of Hassan. I am grateful for the memories and the flavors that he shared with me, and I am proud to carry on the tradition of this delicious dish. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with people and cultures around the world, and the recipe for Moroccan Eggs is a testament to that.