Shakshuka means 'a mixture', a reference to the supposed origins of the dish, for which it comprised of the random ingredients found lying around one's larder and fridge.
Based on 4 servings, adjust as needed.
Warm the olive oil in a 30cm wide saute pan (which has an accompanying fitted lid for later) and sweat the onion over medium heat, stirring regularly, until translucent but not coloured, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the red pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes, then stir through the garlic, smoked paprika and cumin seeds and fry, stirring continuously, until fragrant, no more than 1-2 minutes.
Mix through the tomato puree and cook out for a minute or so, before adding 400ml water (if cooking for 4) to loosen the paste. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat and reduce for 5-7 minutes until thickened to a sauce-like consistency. Season to taste with some salt, freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of sugar!
Make anywhere between 1 to 2 wells per serving (depending on how hungry you are!) in the sauce and gently crack the eggs in one by one, being careful not to break the yolk. Season each egg yolk with salt and some freshly ground black pepper, cover the pan, and cook for 3–5 minutes over medium heat, until the egg whites are cooked through but the the yolks remain runny.
Remove the pan and garnish with parsley, feta and dollops of creme fraiche. Serve immediately with the rice (if using).