Shakshuka, it's the dish that put Israeli breakfast on the map. With its savory combination of eggs, tomatoes, peppers, and spices, it's no wonder that Shakshuka has become a staple dish in many households around the globe. But where did this delicious dish come from, and why has it become such a popular part of Israeli culture?
Origins
Shakshuka, the name of the dish, simply means "all mixed up” in Arabic and that’s exactly what the dish is.
Shakshuka consists of eggs poached in a flavorful tomato sauce that's been spiced up with onions, peppers, and a variety of herbs and spices. It's traditionally served for breakfast but can also be eaten for lunch or dinner.
There are a few rival origin stories for the dish, with some claiming the dish to be of North African descent while others believe it comes from Yemen. What’s for sure is that the dish has been adopted and adapted throughout the Mediterranean and beyond. With nearly every middle-eastern and mediterranean country putting their own spin on the dish.
"Saksuka" a dish of sautéed vegetables and minced meat was popularized during the days of the Ottoman Empire. It’s assumed by many food historians that while vegetables arrived through new trade routes the dish began to evolve. Throughout the early 20th century, when immigration from North African countries to Israel was in full swing, this filling dish made of eggs, vegetables, and served with bread made for a hearty and easy to prepare staple. All the other communities in Israel fell in love with the dish and most adopted their own techniques for making it their own, some by adding spices like cumin and turmeric for an extra kick, others by adding eggplant and tahini.
Breakfast of Champions
Outside of being a tasty breakfast meal, Shakshuka serves an important purpose in Israel’s history. Shakshuka became a common dish made in Israeli army bases due to its ability to be prepared easily, anywhere.
Gil Hovav, a chef and food writer who served in an intelligence unit in the army 25 years ago, said of eating shakshuka in the heat of battle in an interview with Times of Israel: “You’re desperate and away from home and dirty and you want to have something like a warm stew.”
He recalls cooking what they called a Mahbata, an Arabic term that is also used in Hebrew and is based on the word mahvat, the Hebrew word for a frying pan.
“To call it a recipe would be a blasphemy, but a mahbata is something like a one-pot dish or a one-pan dish,” Hovav said. “What you do, and this is not going to add to the respect of the Jewish people, is you take all of the interesting things you find in the rations...Whatever you have, you mix it together and cook it up,” He explained.
Soldiers would take canned tomato sauce and add eggs to make themselves a warm meal after long days during the heat of battle.
Modern Innovations
In Israel these days, almost any dish that includes poached eggs in a sauce is referred to as shakshuka, which is how versions like green shakshuka, coconut lentil shakshuka, beef ragut shakshuka came about.
Some people like it spicy, while others prefer it on the milder side. Some people add feta cheese, while others stick to the classic ingredients. And then there are those who like to get extra creative with their Shakshuka, adding mushrooms, spinach, or even sweet potatoes. Some cooks add preserved lemon, salty sheep milk cheeses, olives, harissa or a spicy sausage such as chorizo or merguez.
In recent years, Shakshuka has gained popularity outside of Israel, making appearances on brunch menus and in food magazines around the world. But while it's exciting to see the dish get the recognition it deserves, it's important to remember its roots and honor the cultural significance of the dish. But what is it about this dish that has made it so popular? It's a dish that's easy to make at home, can be customized to your liking, and is always satisfying. Shakshuka is also filled with vegetables and nutrients which makes it a sensible meal any time of day.
But Shakshuka isn't just about the ingredients. It's about the experience of making and sharing a meal with loved ones. In Israel, Shakshuka is served family-style, with everyone gathered around the table, savoring each bite and enjoying each other's company. It's a dish that brings people together, and that's what makes it so special.
Whether you like your Shakshuka spicy or mild, with feta cheese or without, there's no denying that this dish has a special place in our hearts and on our plates. So next time you're looking for a tasty breakfast option, why not give Shakshuka a try? You won't be disappointed.
Try our recipes for Shakshuka.
