Could it help you find love too? (Picture: Getty)
From shared passions to the same sense of humour, there are many reasons why a couple might be drawn together.
But Love Is Blind fans were a little surprised when fan favourites, Alexa and Brennon, seemed to fall in love over shakshuka – baked eggs.
After the pair’s engagement, smitten Alexa introduced her new beau to her family, saying, ‘He stood out to me because I asked him… “what’s your favourite thing to make?” and he said, “shakshuka.”‘
As with many beloved dishes, the heritage of shakshuka is much debated. Some claim it hails from Palestine, while others say it’s a North African or Israeli creation.
But one thing everyone agrees on is that it’s delicious. So, how do you make it?
Tesco’s executive chef, Jamie Robinson has shared his favourite recipe – alongside some tips on adding a twist to the traditional favourite.
Ingredients:
½ tbsp olive oil1 onion, finely chopped500g pack mixed-colour peppers, finely sliced4 garlic cloves, crushed3 tsp ground cumin1 tbsp smoked paprika2 tbsp tomato purée2 x 400g tins chopped tomatoes10g fresh parsley, finely chopped6 medium eggs120g Greek-style salad cheese, crumbledcrusty bread, to serve
Optional:
500g pack 20% fat beef mince½ lemon, zested
Method:
Heat the oil in a large, deep, lidded frying pan over a medium-high heat. Fry the onion and peppers for 8-10 mins until soft, then add half the garlic, the spices and tomato purée and cook for another 1 min.Tip in the tomatoes and a can’s worth of water; season well and simmer, covered, for 15 mins.If you’re adding meatballs, mix the mince, remaining garlic, half the parsley and lemon zest in a bowl. Season well and shape into 16 balls. When the sauce has simmered for 15 minutes, add in the meatballs.Crack in the eggs and cook for another 10 mins with the lid on. Stir in the remaining parsley, then scatter over the cheese. Serve with crusty bread, if you like.
And if you want to elevate your baked eggs even further, Jamie has some suggestions.
He told Metro.co.uk: ‘For a nutritional boost, try thinly slicing courgette and pan-fry with garlic and baby leaf spinach. Don’t forget to drain the greens before adding to the shakshuka to remove any excess water.
‘If you’re looking for a meat-free alternative, try switching the mince for halloumi which is a popular option for shakshuka. Try balancing out the saltiness of the halloumi with a drizzle of honey to sweeten.
‘For a quick and easy way to really lift the flavour of the dish, add a splash of cherry vinegar to the sauce and mix with all other ingredients.’
The Love Is Blind favourite is definitely worth a taste.
