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Air Fryer Shakshuka: A Contemporary Twist on a Classic Dish

Shakshuka, a vibrant and flavourful dish with its origins in North Africa and the Middle East, has made its way into kitchens across the globe. Traditionally consisting of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, it’s a breakfast staple that soon became a popular brunch option. With the rise of air fryers, this iconic meal has found a new, quicker, and healthier method of preparation. Enter Air Fryer Shakshuka—a delicious twist that combines convenience without compromising on flavour.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To embark on your Air Fryer Shakshuka journey, gather the following ingredients:

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
• Bell Pepper: 1, diced (red or yellow for sweetness)
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Tomatoes: 400g canned diced tomatoes (or 4 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• Tomato Paste: 1 tablespoon
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Cumin: 1 teaspoon
• Chilli Powder: ½ teaspoon (adjust according to spice preference)
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Eggs: 4
• Feta Cheese: 100g, crumbled (optional)
• Fresh Herbs: Such as parsley or coriander, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for about 5 minutes.

2. Sauté the Base: In a bowl suitable for your air fryer, heat the olive oil and add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Mix in the minced garlic and sauté for around 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.

3. Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, cumin, chilli powder, salt, and pepper. Combine well and allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This step enhances the flavours and helps the spices infuse into the sauce.

4. Cook in the Air Fryer: Transfer the tomato mixture into the air fryer basket. Create small wells in the sauce for the eggs. Carefully crack the eggs into these wells, ensuring they remain intact.

5. Air Fry the Shakshuka: Cook the shakshuka at 180°C (356°F) for approximately 8-10 minutes. Check the eggs during the cooking time; you may want to adjust the time based on how runny or firm you prefer your yolks.

6. Finish and Serve: Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, remove the shakshuka from the air fryer. If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top and add freshly chopped herbs for an extra burst of flavour.

7. Enjoy Your Shakshuka: Serve the Air Fryer Shakshuka hot, ideally with crusty bread, pitta, or a side salad. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.

Why Use an Air Fryer?

The beauty of using an air fryer for shakshuka lies in the reduced cooking time and the ability to enjoy a dish that’s both hearty and healthy. The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, allowing for even cooking while using less oil than traditional frying methods. This not only helps to maintain the vibrant colours and flavour of the ingredients but also reduces the overall calorie count. Furthermore, it simplifies the cleaning process, making cooking enjoyable rather than a chore.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Shakshuka is a delightful way to enjoy a beloved classic with a modern twist. With just a few ingredients and minimal fuss, you can whip up a dish that’s bursting with flavours and brimming with nutrition. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this dish is sure to impress, making it an excellent addition to any culinary repertoire. Embrace the ease and versatility of the air fryer and make this Shakshuka your new go-to dish!