Arabic Breakfast Recipes You’ll Love: Shakshuka and Balila Made Simple

Breakfast is more than just the first meal of the day in Arabic culture—it’s a time to gather, share, and enjoy simple yet flavorful dishes that bring comfort and energy. Two of the most beloved Middle Eastern breakfast recipes are Shakshuka, a vibrant dish of eggs poached in a rich tomato and spice sauce, and Balila, a hearty chickpea dish flavored with garlic, cumin, and olive oil.

Both of these recipes are packed with wholesome ingredients, easy to prepare, and perfect for anyone who wants to explore the authentic flavors of Arabic cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a protein-rich meal to start your morning or a new dish to share with family, these Arabic breakfast classics will quickly become favorites on your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Shakshuka and Balila

Before you start cooking, it’s important to gather all the fresh and flavorful ingredients that make these Arabic breakfast dishes so special. Both Shakshuka and Balila are made with simple, wholesome staples commonly found in Middle Eastern kitchens.

Traditional Arabic shakshuka with eggs poached in tomato sauce served in a skillet

For Shakshuka (Serves 2–3 people)

3–4 large eggs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
4 ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can of diced tomatoes, 400 g)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for spice)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Optional add-ins: crumbled feta cheese, spinach, or spicy harissa for an extra kick.

For Balila (Serves 2–3 people)

2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed – 400 g)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon paprika or chili powder (optional)
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional toppings: extra virgin olive oil drizzle, toasted pine nuts, or pickled vegetables on the side.

These ingredients are not only flavorful but also highly nutritious, giving you a breakfast that is both filling and healthy. Fresh herbs, olive oil, and spices like cumin and paprika are essential to achieving that authentic Arabic taste.

🥄 Utensils for Shakshuka

Deep skillet or sauté pan (cast iron or steel, with a lid preferred)
Wooden spatula for stirring tomatoes and spices
Sharp kitchen knife for chopping vegetables
Cutting board
Metal spoon to make small wells and add eggs to the sauce

🥣 Utensils for Balila

Medium saucepan to cook or warm chickpeas
Strainer or colander to drain canned chickpeas
Serving bowl (mezze-style bowls work perfectly)
Garlic press or knife to crush garlic
Tablespoon to measure olive oil, lemon juice, and spices

🍴 Utensils Common to Both Recipes

Small bowls for preparing and measuring spices
Ladle or large serving spoon
Kitchen towel to handle hot pans or pots
Measuring cups and spoons (for precise ingredient amounts)

Step-by-Step Recipe for Balila (Warm Chickpea Breakfast Dish)

Balila is one of the simplest yet most comforting Arabic breakfast recipes. Made with tender chickpeas, olive oil, lemon, and spices, it’s warm, hearty, and naturally rich in protein. Here’s how to prepare it at home:

Warm Arabic balila chickpea breakfast dish with olive oil, cumin, and parsley

Prepare the Chickpeas

If using dried chickpeas: soak 1 cup (200 g) overnight in plenty of water, then boil them the next day for 60–75 minutes until soft.
If using canned chickpeas: simply drain and rinse 1 can (400 g) to remove excess liquid and salt.

Warm and Flavor the Chickpeas

In a medium pot, add the cooked chickpeas with 1 cup of water or vegetable broth.
Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic and 1 teaspoon ground cumin.
Let it simmer over medium heat for 8–10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Season and Enhance the Taste

Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, juice of 1 lemon, salt, and black pepper to taste.
For a touch of spice, sprinkle in ½ teaspoon paprika or chili flakes.
Mix well until the chickpeas are coated in the flavorful dressing.

Serve and Garnish

Transfer the warm Balila into small bowls.
Garnish with fresh parsley, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and optional toppings like toasted pine nuts.
Serve with warm Arabic bread, pita, or khubz alongside olives, pickles, or labneh for a complete Arabic breakfast spread.

Balila is not only delicious but also quick to make, especially if you use canned chickpeas. It’s a light yet satisfying dish, perfect for mornings when you want something nourishing without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Tips for Serving, Variations, and Pairings

One of the reasons Shakshuka and Balila remain staples of Arabic breakfasts is their versatility. You can serve them in many ways, add creative twists, and combine them with other dishes to create a complete Middle Eastern spread.

Serving Tips

Serve Shakshuka directly in the skillet for a rustic, authentic presentation. Pair it with warm pita or crusty bread to scoop up the rich tomato sauce.
For Balila, use small bowls or mezze-style dishes, drizzling with extra virgin olive oil for added flavor and shine.
Add fresh sides like sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, or pickled vegetables to balance out the richness of the dishes.

Delicious Variations

Shakshuka with Cheese: Add crumbled feta or goat cheese before cooking the eggs for a creamy, tangy twist.
Spicy Shakshuka: Stir in fresh chili peppers or a spoonful of harissa paste for extra heat.
Protein-Boosted Balila: Top with a soft-boiled egg or mix in quinoa for a more filling version.
Herb-Infused Balila: Use fresh mint, dill, or coriander instead of parsley to give the dish a unique flavor profile.

Perfect Pairings

Pair Shakshuka with labneh, hummus, or foul medames for a hearty breakfast platter.
Enjoy Balila alongside creamy tahini sauce or baba ganoush for a rich balance of textures.
Serve both dishes with freshly brewed mint tea or Arabic coffee to complete the experience.
For brunch, complement them with light salads such as tabbouleh or fattoush.

With just a few tweaks and additions, you can transform these classic recipes into a breakfast feast that’s both authentic and tailored to your taste.