In recent years, shakshuka has become one of Berlin’s trendiest breakfast dishes. What was once a traditional North African dish can now be found on the menus of numerous cafés and brunch restaurants. But not all shakshuka is created equal—and only a few establishments serve the dish as it was originally intended.
At LIT Coffeebar in Berlin-Moabit, we serve shakshuka according to an authentic Tunisian recipe passed down through generations. In this article, you’ll learn what shakshuka actually is, where our recipe comes from, and the three variations we offer.
What is shakshuka?
Shakshuka is a traditional breakfast and brunch dish from North Africa, particularly from Tunisia, Morocco, and Algeria. The word itself comes from Berber and roughly translates to “mixture” or “blend.” The foundation:
- Ripe tomatoes, slowly braised
- Bell peppers in various colors
- Roasted onions and garlic
- Spices such as cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and sometimes harissa
- Eggs poached directly into the sauce
Shakshuka is traditionally served in a cast-iron skillet—right at the table, with warm flatbread for dipping. In the 1950s, the dish spread to Israel via Tunisian immigrants and became a national breakfast. Today, shakshuka has also secured its place on Berlin’s breakfast menu.
The story behind our recipe
Our shakshuka at LIT Coffeebar is based on a family recipe from Tunisia, which we prepare with love and respect for tradition. The key principles:
- Slowly braised tomato sauce—we simmer the base for hours to make it deep, sweet, and intense.
- Fresh, high-quality eggs—cracked directly into the sauce and gently poached.
- Homemade spice paste — cumin, coriander, paprika, a hint of harissa.
- Fresh herbs to finish — parsley, coriander, sometimes mint.
- Warm sourdough bread or pita on the side — perfect for dipping.
The result is a shakshuka that is warm, spicy, aromatic, and deeply satisfying — a tribute to North African cuisine, right in the heart of Berlin-Moabit.
Our 3 Shakshuka Variations
At LIT Coffeebar, we offer three different shakshuka variations — from classic to creative.
1. Classic Shakshuka
The classic Tunisian shakshuka is our purest version — and for many guests, the best.
Ingredients:
- Sautéed tomato sauce with bell peppers, onions, and garlic
- 2 poached eggs
- Cumin, paprika, harissa
- Fresh coriander and parsley
- Served with warm sourdough bread
Who is it for? For purists who love the original. Vegetarian.
2. Shakshuka with Merguez
The Merguez shakshuka brings a hearty North African flavor to the dish. Merguez is a spicy lamb sausage from North Africa, seasoned with harissa, garlic, and cumin.
Ingredients:
- Classic tomato and bell pepper base
- 2 poached eggs
- Sliced homemade Merguez sausage
- Fresh herbs
- Warm bread for dipping
Who is it for? Meat lovers and anyone who likes their shakshuka extra spicy.
3. Shakshuka with Pumpkin and Potatoes
Our seasonal shakshuka variation is a highlight in autumn and winter. Sweet pumpkin, gently braised potatoes, and the classic tomato base combine to create a warming dish.
Ingredients:
- Hokkaido pumpkin and new potatoes
- Tomato and bell pepper sauce
- 2 poached eggs
- Cumin, smoked paprika powder
- Topping of roasted pine nuts
Who is it for? For the colder months, for vegans (eggs optional), and for anyone who wants to eat seasonally.
Where we are located
LIT Coffeebar 📍 Jagowstraße 23, 10555 Berlin-Moabit 📞 +49 30 28663057
Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Directions:
- Subway: U9 Turmstraße (5-minute walk)
- S-Bahn: Bellevue (10-minute walk)
- Bus: Lines 101, 123, M27
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shakshuka vegetarian?
Our classic Shakshuka and the pumpkin and potato version are vegetarian. The Merguez version contains lamb sausage.
Can I order vegan Shakshuka?
Yes, we can prepare the pumpkin shakshuka without eggs upon request—a 100% vegan option with full flavor.
How spicy is your shakshuka?
The classic version is mild to medium-spicy. The merguez version is significantly spicier. We’re happy to adjust the spiciness to your liking.
When is the best time to eat shakshuka in Berlin?
Traditionally, shakshuka is a breakfast or brunch dish. At LIT Coffeebar, however, you can enjoy it all day long—from breakfast to dinner.
What’s the difference between Tunisian and Israeli shakshuka?
Tunisian shakshuka is the original version with an intense spice base (often harissa) and a thicker tomato sauce. The Israeli version, which developed later, is usually milder and often contains feta cheese. We stick to the Tunisian original.