Mieke's Shakshuka

Andrew
Mar 23
3 min read

Updated: Jul 25

Bubbling shakshuka in a skillet, topped with crumbled feta and fresh herbs against a tomato-red backdrop, creating a savory, vibrant dish.

Shakshuka is more than just a delightful dish; it embodies the warmth of shared meals and cherished memories. My brother-in-law, Kevin let us know several months ago about the Shakshuka recipe he wanted us to review. He used to live in Australia with his husband, Gregg, and while there, he made a lot of friends. One friend, Mieke, while celebrating Australia Day, gave him this recipe from memory. Kevin doesn’t exactly recall where she originally got it, but this dish, rich in flavor, has now crossed oceans and found a permanent place in our kitchen.

Its appeal lies in the bold flavors and simple preparation. The dish features poached eggs nestled in a spicy tomato sauce, making it an inviting brunch option or a hearty dinner centerpiece. In this post, we will explore the fascinating elements of Shakshuka, investigating aquafaba and the art of blooming spices for enhanced flavor.

Four people sit on a patio bench, smiling, with a wooden fence behind. One person wears a red cap, another a tiger print shirt. Casual setting.

The Role of Dried Spices in Shakshuka

This dish combines spices with the richness of egg yolks and tomatoes—resulting in a delightfully satisfying meal. Dried spices are the soul of Shakshuka. They add layers of flavor that transport you straight to Flavor Central. The dried spices used in Mieke's Shakshuka include:

Cumin: This earthy spice is vital in many global cuisines. It brings a warm, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of tomatoes.
Coriander: With its lemony and floral taste, coriander is a spice commonly used in numerous Asian, Latin, and Indian recipes, as well as European dishes. The plant's leaves are referred to as cilantro or Chinese parsley, while the round seeds are used to produce coriander spice. This spice is a component of the Indian spice blend garam masala, which features in a variety of savory meals. Coriander can enrich a dish’s aroma and depth.
Turmeric: Whether fresh or dried, turmeric offers an earthy, pleasantly bitter flavor that enhances the taste of other spices. Its peppery and citrusy notes also make it a delightful spice to use on its own for seasoning dishes. However, it's advisable to add a dash of black pepper for a spicy kick that balances turmeric's astringent qualities.

Blooming spices is a crucial technique to maximize flavor. This involves cooking the spices briefly in oil, or in a dry pan which releases their essential oils and amplifies their flavors. To bloom your spices, heat a skillet, add the dried spices, and let them cook for 30-60 seconds. This process will fill your kitchen with an enticing aroma, letting anyone in smell distance know that your dish is about to be elevated.

Preparing Your Shakshuka

The Magic of Aquafaba

Aquafaba is quickly becoming a kitchen hero. If using canned chickpeas, keep this drained, liquid gold. It serves as a fantastic vegan alternative to egg whites. In fact, it can be whipped into fluffy peaks just like traditional meringue. This makes it a fantastic option for those on vegan diets or anyone with egg allergies.

Aquafaba’s versatility doesn't stop there. Try using it to bind ingredients in fritters or craft a light, fluffy mousse for dessert. With such possibilities, it encourages creativity in everyday cooking.

The Global Journey of Shakshuka

Shakshuka's journey reflects the universal connection that food fosters. From Mieke’s kitchen to Kevin’s family table, it highlights how meals can bring people together across cultures. While the origins of Shakshuka might be debated—whether from North Africa or the Middle East—the real beauty lies in its adaptability. Each cook puts their own spin on it, transforming local ingredients and spices into something unique. This characteristic reinforces that recipes are living traditions. As they travel worldwide, they gather stories and become part of diverse culinary landscapes.

Four egg yolks in white bowls on a wooden surface. Yolks are bright yellow, creating a fresh and inviting kitchen scene.

Final Thoughts

Shakshuka is not just a dish; it's an experience that captures the power of culinary connections. With the innovative use of aquafaba and the blooming of spices, each bite brings together the essence of shared moments and global adventures.

As you explore your culinary journey, allow this flavorful dish to inspire creativity. Celebrate flavors that bring comfort and joy, and share your own culinary stories with loved ones.