North Africa · Breakfast
Shakshouka Libiya (Poached Eggs in a Fiery Pepper, Tomato, and Garlic Stew)
Silky eggs gently poached in a rich, bubbling sauce of crushed tomatoes, fiery green chilies, garlic, and fragrant caraway-coriander tabil.
The story
Eaten across urban cafés and desert oases alike, Shakshouka Libiya is the quintessential morning meal designed to power workers through demanding days. Distinct from Levantine variations, the Libyan version is celebrated for its assertive heat, generous garlic base, and fragrant Libyan tabil seasoning cooked in a heavy pan. Traditional cooks always fry the tomato paste directly in extra-virgin olive oil first, caramelizing the concentrates to build a rich savory foundation before folding in fresh peppers.
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