Shakshouka Focaccia: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for 2023

Shakshouka Focaccia combines the amazing flavors of traditional Middle Eastern shakshouka with the delightful texture of Italian focaccia. This unique dish brings a wonderful twist to a classic, making it a star attraction at brunch or any cozy gathering. The vibrant colors and hearty ingredients create a visually stunning and mouth-watering centerpiece that will impress your family and friends.

As someone who appreciates the artistry of combining flavors and textures, you’ll fall in love with this innovative creation. Shakshouka, with its poached eggs nestled in a spiced tomato sauce, embodies comforting warmth, while focaccia offers a soft, pillowy base. Together, they form a harmonious blend that is simply irresistible.

In this article, we'll delve into why this recipe is a must-try, provide precise preparation and cooking times, outline all necessary ingredients, offer clear step-by-step instructions, and explore the best ways to serve this incredible dish. Each section will ensure you have all the tools you need to produce an unforgettable Shakshouka Focaccia that will be the highlight of your meals.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing Shakshouka Focaccia is a rewarding experience. You’ll enjoy the process as much as the delicious outcome. Here’s the breakdown of the time needed:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 hour (for the dough)
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes

Keep in mind that the rising time for the dough is crucial for achieving that perfect texture, so don’t rush through this step!

Ingredients

• For the Focaccia Dough:
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
• ¼ cup olive oil (plus more for drizzling)

• For the Shakshouka Topping:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4-6 large eggs
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Shakshouka Focaccia is seamless if you follow the steps below:

1. Prepare the Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, and salt.
• Pour in the warm water and olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
• Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
• Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

1. Make the Shakshouka Filling:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.

1. Preheat the Oven:

• While the shakshouka filling is simmering, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

1. Assemble the Focaccia:

• Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
• Once the dough has risen, punch it down and stretch it onto the baking sheet, creating dimples throughout the surface using your fingers.
• Spread the shakshouka mixture evenly over the dough, creating wells for the eggs.

1. Add the Eggs:

• Crack the eggs carefully into the wells you made in the shakshouka topping.

1. Bake:

• Drizzle the top with olive oil and place in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are golden and the egg whites are set.

1. Garnish and Serve:

• Once done, remove from the oven, and sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley on top before slicing and serving.

How to Serve

Serving Shakshouka Focaccia is as much about presentation as it is about flavor. Here are some tips to elevate your dining experience:

1. Presentation: Slice the focaccia into squares or rectangles and serve it on a vibrant platter for an inviting look.
2. Accompaniments: Offer sides of fresh yogurt or labneh for dipping. This adds a creamy contrast to the spiciness of the shakshouka.
3. Herb Garnish: A shower of chopped herbs not only enhances the flavor but also adds color to the dish.
4. Beverage Pairing: Complement the meal with a light salad or a chilled glass of white wine, which pairs beautifully with the dish.
5. Sharing Style: Encourage guests to tear pieces off and enjoy the communal aspect of this meal.

With these serving suggestions, Shakshouka Focaccia is sure to impress every guest and create a truly memorable dining experience. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Additional Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices elevate the flavors significantly. Always opt for fresh garlic and herbs for the best taste.
• Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the spices in the shakshouka topping to suit your palate. Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for extra heat.
• Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too sticky while kneading, sprinkle a little more flour. Conversely, if it's too dry, add a little more water.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to get creative with your Shakshouka Focaccia! Here’s how you can vary the recipe:

1. Vegetable Additions: Add spinach or kale to the shakshouka filling for extra nutrition.
2. Cheesy Version: Sprinkle feta or goat cheese on top before baking for a creamy, tangy flavor.
3. Herb Focused: Incorporate different herbs such as dill, basil, or even mint for varied flavors that complement the shakshouka.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Shakshouka Focaccia can be frozen before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil; it can last up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

Special Equipment

To prepare Shakshouka Focaccia successfully, here are essential tools you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients effectively.
• Skillet: Essential for cooking the shakshouka topping.
• Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet is crucial for baking the focaccia evenly.
• Parchment Paper: This can help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to the consistency of the dough and topping.

Conclusion

Shakshouka Focaccia is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that merges flavors and cultures beautifully. With its vibrant colors, delightful textures, and deliciously spiced shakshouka topping, this dish will undoubtedly impress anyone who tries it. Perfect for brunch gatherings, weekend breakfasts, or a cozy dinner, this recipe is one you'll want to keep in your collection. The ease of preparation and the impressive presentation make it a standout choice. Enjoy the satisfaction of baking this masterpiece and sharing it with loved ones!