Mediterranean Meatball Shakshuka — where cozy comfort meets bold flavor! 🍅🧆🍳 Imagine tender spiced lamb or beef meatballs simmering in a garlicky tomato-pepper sauce, finished with poached eggs and fresh herbs. It’s like shakshuka got a protein-packed upgrade — perfect for brunch, dinner, or anytime you need a hug in a bowl.
🍅 Mediterranean Meatball Shakshuka
Ingredients (Serves 4):
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley or mint
For the Shakshuka Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- Salt to taste
- 4 eggs
- Fresh parsley, feta, or olives for topping
👨🍳 Instructions:
- Make the Meatballs:
- In a bowl, mix all meatball ingredients. Form into small balls (~1 inch).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or oven-safe pan. Brown meatballs on all sides (they don’t need to cook through yet). Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and sauté onion and pepper until soft.
- Stir in garlic, paprika, cumin, and chili flakes. Cook 1 min until fragrant.
- Add crushed tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine & Bake:
- Return meatballs to the sauce. Simmer covered for 10 minutes to cook through.
- Make small wells in the sauce and crack in eggs.
- Cover and cook on low until eggs are just set (5–8 minutes), or transfer to a 375°F (190°C) oven to finish.
- Finish & Serve:
- Top with crumbled feta, chopped herbs, or olives.
- Serve with warm pita, crusty bread, or couscous.
🛎️ Serving Ideas:
- Add sautéed spinach or chickpeas for extra veg.
- Works great as a brunch centerpiece or cozy weeknight dinner.
💡 Pro Tips:
- Want it smoky? Add a touch of harissa or chipotle to the tomato base.
- Sub meatballs with falafel or veggie balls for a plant-based version.
Want a mouthwatering photo or an IG caption to match? Let me know the vibe — aesthetic brunch, rustic dinner, or bold and spicy!
