Main Course · Brunch · African ·

Spicy Tunisian Chakchouka with Harissa and Eggs

Dive into the captivating flavors of Tunisia with this spiced chakchouka packed with tomatoes, peppers, and Harissa-spiced poached eggs.

4.7(531 reviews)
·By Ethan Brooks·
Spicy Tunisian Chakchouka with Harissa and Eggs — Main Course served and photographed from above
Prep
15 min
Cook
45 min
Difficulty
Intermediate
Serves
4

Preparation

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.

Preparing the Tomato Base

  1. 1

    Heat the oil

    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  2. 2

    Sauté onions and peppers

    Add sliced onions and peppers; sauté until soft, about 8 minutes.

  3. 3

    Cook garlic and spices

    Stir in garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Mixing the Sauce

  1. 1

    Combine tomatoes and harissa

    Add crushed tomatoes and harissa paste to the skillet; stir to combine.

  2. 2

    Season and adjust consistency

    Season with salt and pepper, adding water as necessary for consistency.

  3. 3

    Simmer sauce

    Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

    Tip: Ensure the sauce thickens slightly before adding eggs. Adjust harissa quantity based on your spice preference.

How to Make Spicy Tunisian Chakchouka with Harissa and Eggs

Total time: 1 h · Yields 4 servings

  1. 1

    Simmering the Sauce

    Bring your sauce to a gentle simmer to deepen the flavors.

  2. 2

    Creating Egg Nests

    Make small wells in the sauce for each egg and crack eggs directly into these wells.

  3. 3

    Poaching the Eggs

    Cover the pan and allow eggs to poach in the sauce until the whites are set but yolks are still runny.

Chef's Tips

    Further reading

    Frequently asked questions

    How long can I store leftovers?

    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

    Can I make this ahead?

    Yes, prepare the tomato base a day in advance, then heat and add eggs just before serving.

    Is there a vegetarian option?

    This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Use vegan cheese or omit cheese for a vegan option.

    What can I substitute for harissa paste?

    Substitute with a blend of hot chili paste and a dash of lemon juice for similar heat and tang.

    How do I know when the eggs are done?

    The egg whites should be opaque and the yolks slightly jiggly when gently shaken.

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