Cuban-style Şakşuka

Ingredients

While the original Turkish Şakşuka typically includes eggplant, tomatoes, and peppers, this Cuban adaptation adds a tropical twist. The Cuban-style Şakşuka incorporates ingredients like plantains, black beans, and a hint of spice to create a unique fusion of flavors. The result is a dish that combines the best of Turkish and Cuban cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Şakşuka, so you can check it out.

• 2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced 2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup (240 ml) black beans, cooked 1 cup (240 ml) black beans, cooked
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) cumin 1 teaspoon (5 ml) cumin
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) paprika 1 teaspoon (5 ml) paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) cayenne pepper (optional) 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 15g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 10g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the diced bell peppers and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
4. 4.
   Stir in the sliced plantains and cook until they turn golden brown.
5. 5.
   Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. 7.
   Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Plantains — Make sure the plantains are ripe but still firm for the best texture in the dish.
• Black beans — If using canned black beans, rinse them thoroughly before adding to the recipe to reduce sodium content.
• Cumin — Toasting the cumin seeds before grinding them will enhance their flavor in the dish.
• Cayenne pepper — Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smoky flavor, you can grill the bell peppers before dicing them.
• Serve the Cuban-style Şakşuka with a side of rice or warm tortillas for a complete meal.
• Add a squeeze of lime juice before serving to enhance the flavors.
• Feel free to customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to develop further.

Serving advice

Serve the Cuban-style Şakşuka as a main dish accompanied by rice or warm tortillas. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. This dish is perfect for sharing with friends and family, and it pairs well with a refreshing tropical drink.

Presentation advice

Present the Cuban-style Şakşuka in a colorful serving dish to showcase the vibrant ingredients. Arrange the plantains, black beans, and bell peppers in an appealing pattern. Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for an added pop of green.