Welcome to the ultimate guide to Shakshuka and bread pairings! If you’re a fan of this delicious Middle Eastern breakfast dish, then you know that the right bread can make all the difference. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the best one?
Shakshuka is a traditional Middle Eastern and North African dish that typically consists of eggs poached in a flavorful tomato sauce with spices and vegetables. It can be served with bread on the side for dipping or as a base for the eggs.
The best bread for shakshuka is a matter of personal preference, but some popular options include pita bread, sourdough bread, and baguette. Flatbreads like pita and sourdough can be great for scooping up the sauce and eggs, while a crusty baguette can provide a nice contrast in texture.
Ultimately, the best bread for shakshuka is one that you enjoy and that complements the flavors of the dish.
Below I will cover some of the best options as well as break down the pros and cons of each option. I’ll also give you all the information you need to make an informed decision. So, let’s get started!
1. Pita Bread
Ah, the classic pita bread. It’s a staple in many Middle Eastern cuisines, and for good reason. Pita bread is soft, pillowy, and easy to tear into pieces for dipping. It’s cheap and widely available at most grocery stores.
But here’s the thing: pita bread is a little on the thin side, which means it may not hold up as well to a saucy Shakshuka. You might end up with a soggy mess on your hands (or rather, in your mouth).
On the plus side, pita bread is great for scooping up all those flavorful Shakshuka ingredients, so if you’re willing to sacrifice a little structural integrity for flavor, go for it.
2. Naan Bread
If you’re looking for a bread that can stand up to a hearty Shakshuka, then naan is the way to go. This traditional Indian bread is soft, chewy, and slightly thicker than pita, which makes it a great choice for dipping.
The only downside to naan is that it can be a little on the greasy side, thanks to the generous amount of butter and oil used in the dough. So if you’re trying to watch your fat intake, this might not be the best option.
3. Sourdough Bread
Sourdough bread is having a moment right now, and for good reason. It’s tangy, chewy, and has a slightly crispy crust that’s perfect for dipping into a saucy Shakshuka.
The only issue with sourdough is that it can be a bit hard to find, especially if you don’t live near a specialty bakery. And let’s be real, who has the time or energy to make their own sourdough bread? Not this girl.
4. Baguette
Okay, hear us out. We know that a baguette might seem like an odd choice for a Shakshuka pairing, but trust us, it works. The crusty exterior and soft interior make it a great vessel for scooping up all those flavorful Shakshuka ingredients.
It’s long and thin, which makes it easy to share with a group.
The only downside to a baguette is that it can be a little dry, so you might want to have some butter or olive oil on hand to give it a little extra moisture.
5. Ciabatta
Ciabatta is another great option for a Shakshuka pairing. It has a soft, airy interior and a slightly crispy exterior, which makes it perfect for dipping.
Ciabatta is also widely available at most grocery stores, so you won’t have to go on a wild goose chase to find it.
The only issue with ciabatta is that it can be a little on the bulky side, which means it might not be the most graceful bread to eat with your Shakshuka. But hey, at least you won’t go hungry.
6. Focaccia
Focaccia is a great option for a Shakshuka pairing if you’re looking for something a little more substantial. It’s thick, chewy, and has a slightly crispy exterior, which makes it perfect for soaking up all that flavorful sauce.
Focaccia is often studded with herbs and other flavorful ingredients, which adds an extra layer of flavor to your Shakshuka.
The only downside to focaccia is that it can be a little on the heavy side, so it might not be the best choice if you’re looking for a lighter breakfast option. But hey, sometimes you just gotta treat yourself.
7. Cornbread
Now, we know what you’re thinking: cornbread with Shakshuka? It might sound a little strange, but trust us, it works. The sweet, crumbly cornbread pairs perfectly with the savory Shakshuka, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Cornbread is a great way to switch things up if you’re feeling a little bored with the usual bread options.
The only downside to cornbread is that it can be a little dry, so you might want to have some butter or honey on hand to give it a little extra moisture.
8. Croissants
Croissants are a bit of a splurge for a Shakshuka pairing, but boy are they worth it. The buttery, flaky exterior and soft, tender interior make for a heavenly combination with the savory Shakshuka.
Croissants are just plain fancy, which makes them a great choice for a special breakfast or brunch.
The only issue with croissants is that they can be a little on the delicate side, so they might not hold up as well to a saucy Shakshuka. But hey, sometimes it’s worth it to sacrifice a little structural integrity for flavor.
9. Biscuits
Biscuits might not be the first bread that comes to mind when you think of Shakshuka, but they’re actually a great choice. The flaky, buttery biscuits pair perfectly with the savory Shakshuka, creating a heavenly combination of flavors.
Biscuits are easy to make and cheap, which makes them a great option if you’re on a budget.
The only downside to biscuits is that they can be a little dry, so you might want to have some butter or gravy on hand to give them a little extra moisture.
10. Toast
And last but not least, we have toast. It might not be the most exciting bread option, but it’s definitely a reliable choice. Toast is cheap, widely available, and pairs well with just about anything, including Shakshuka.
Plus, it’s easy to customize with different spreads and toppings, which makes it a great choice if you’re feeling a little adventurous.
The only issue with toast is that it can be a little boring if you’re not careful. So be sure to mix things up with different spreads and toppings to keep things interesting.
Final Thoughts
Well, there you have it, folks. The ultimate guide to Shakshuka and bread pairings. We hope you’ve found this guide helpful and that you’re now armed with all the knowledge you need to make an informed decision about what bread to pair with your Shakshuka.
The best bread to pair with your Shakshuka is really a matter of personal preference. So don’t be afraid to experiment and try out different options until you find the one that’s just right for you. And if all else fails, just grab a fork and dig in. We won’t judge.