Tangy Sumac and Pomegranate Eggplant Shakshuka

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants, diced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground sumac
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup fresh pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Warm pita bread, for serving

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the diced eggplant on a baking sheet, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Roast in the oven for 20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

2. While the eggplant is roasting, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and red bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in the garlic, ground sumac, cumin, and smoked paprika, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Add the crushed tomatoes and pomegranate juice to the skillet, stirring to combine. Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

5. Once the eggplant is roasted, add it to the skillet and stir to incorporate with the tomato mixture. Make four small wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each well.

6. Cover the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the eggs are set to your desired level of doneness.

7. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh pomegranate seeds, parsley, and crumbled feta cheese if using.

8. Serve immediately with warm pita bread for scooping.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 320 kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 186mg | Sodium: 680mg | Potassium: 700mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 1200IU | Vitamin C: 45mg | Calcium: 120mg | Iron: 3mg

_{Note: The nutritional information is estimated based on ingredient availability and portion sizes. For exact values, please consult a nutritionist.}