Eggplant, Zucchini and Capsicum Shakshuka

Eggs are a natural superfood with 11 different vitamins and nutrients packed into only 300kJ.

Every time you crack open an egg you are receiving the goodness of protein, vitamins A, D, E and B12, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, antioxidants and choline, which is particularly important during pregnancy to support foetal brain development.

Recipe by Accredited Practising Dietitian Georgia Houston from GH Nutrition

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 1 hour + 10 minutes

Serves 4

Ingredients

1 large eggplant, sliced 1.5cm thick

2 large capsicums, cut into large pieces, seeds discarded

2 zucchinis, sliced 1.5cm thick

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 large brown onion, thinly sliced

4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

1 small bunch thyme, leaves picked and finely chopped

4 bay leaves

1 long red chilli, finely chopped

250g cherry tomatoes

2 tbsp tomato paste

2 cups vegetable stock

400g can diced tomatoes

4 free-range eggs

Sea salt and black cracked pepper

Fresh basil leaves, optional

Fresh sourdough, toasted, to serve 

Method

Preheat oven to 240C. Place the eggplant, capsicum and zucchini on a large baking tray lined with baking paper. Drizzle with 2 tbsp oil and cook for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Set aside.

Heat remaining oil in a large shallow pan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, chilli, salt and pepper and cook, covered, stirring occasionally for 15 minutes or until soft.

Add the cherry tomatoes and tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. Add the stock and diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for 25-30 minutes or until reduced. Add the eggplant, capsicum and zucchini and mix to combine.

Return heat to low and make 4 small hollows in the veggie mixture. Crack an egg into each hole. Cover pan with a lid or foil and cook for 5-7 minutes, depending on how runny you want your eggs.

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil and serve with toasted sourdough.