Sunday Roast

 Homemade Turkish Şakşuka Recipe

Turkish cuisine is full of vibrant flavors, and one of its most beloved dishes is Şakşuka. This delicious and colorful vegetable dish is a staple in Turkish homes and is often enjoyed as a meze (appetizer) or a side dish. It consists of fried vegetables, primarily eggplant, zucchini, and peppers, topped with a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic and spices. Whether served warm or cold, Şakşuka is a delightful addition to any meal.

Ingredients:

For the Vegetables:

• 2 medium eggplants

• 1 zucchini (optional)

• 2 green peppers

• 1 red bell pepper

• Vegetable oil for frying

• Salt to taste

For the Sauce:

• 3 medium tomatoes, finely chopped or grated

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon vinegar (optional, for extra tanginess)

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Yogurt (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Peel the eggplants in a striped pattern and cut them into bite-sized cubes.
2. Sprinkle salt over the eggplant pieces and let them sit for about 15-20 minutes to remove bitterness.
3. Rinse and pat dry the eggplants with a paper towel.
4. Cut the zucchini into cubes (if using) and slice the peppers into strips.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan and fry the eggplants until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
6. Fry the zucchini and peppers in the same oil until soft and slightly browned. Drain on paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, sugar, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
4. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens. Stir occasionally.
5. Add vinegar if using, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

1. Arrange the fried vegetables on a serving plate.
2. Pour the tomato sauce over the top, making sure to coat the vegetables evenly.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley.
4. Serve warm or cold, optionally with a side of yogurt.

Tips for the Best Şakşuka:

• To reduce oil absorption, you can roast the vegetables instead of frying them.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
• Letting the dish rest for a few hours enhances the flavors as the sauce absorbs into the vegetables.

Enjoy this authentic Turkish Şakşuka at home and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Serve it with warm bread or as part of a meze platter for a truly delicious experience!

Have you tried making Şakşuka? Let us know your favorite variations in the comments!👇😋

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