Menemen: Turkish Scrambled Eggs with Peppers
Around the World in 80 Eggs, day 16
Turkish menemen is a vibrantly coloured and super flavourful classic Turkish breakfast dish that's sure to spice up your morning.
Imagine a dreamy combination of scrambled eggs, chopped tomatoes, and green peppers, all seasoned with warm spices like red pepper flakes and black pepper...
The ripe tomatoes add sweetness and tang to balance the richness of the eggs and to make it even richer in flavour and texture...
It's delicious and you'll love it!
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About this recipe
What is Menemen?
At its core, Menemen is a traditional Turkish dish composed of eggs scrambled with fresh tomatoes and green peppers.
It’s seasoned with a blend of spices, often including red pepper flakes and black pepper, creating a savoury yet slightly spicy flavour profile.
Menemen can be eaten on its own or topped with crumbled feta cheese, which adds a creamy richness that complements the dish perfectly.
This dish is usually served with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices, making it a comforting and filling meal.
A Brief History of Menemen
Menemen has been a staple of Turkish breakfasts for centuries.
While its exact origins are debated, it’s believed to have roots in the Menemen district of Izmir, Turkey.
The dish is thought to have evolved from a combination of eggs and vegetables, which were readily available and easy to cook.
Menemen has become so ingrained in Turkish culture that it’s served not only for breakfast but also as a light lunch or dinner, making it a versatile and beloved meal across the country.
Why Menemen is a Must-Try Breakfast Dish
- Quick and Easy: Menemen is the perfect dish for those mornings when you need something flavourful but don’t have a lot of time. It comes together in just a few minutes, making it a great choice for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.
- Packed with Flavour: The balance of sweet tomatoes, spicy peppers, and rich eggs creates a breakfast that’s both comforting and exciting. Add feta for a creamy touch, and you’ve got a winning combination!
- Versatile: Whether you like it cheesy or spice it up with extra peppers, Menemen is highly customisable to suit your taste.
- Healthy and Nutritious: With fresh vegetables, eggs, and spices, Menemen is a nutrient-dense dish that’s high in protein, fibre, and antioxidants, making it a great way to start your day.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 1 brown onion
- 1 green bell pepper (I only found yellow so that's what I used here)
- 2-3 tomatoes, finely diced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper, or more for a spicier kick
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Aleppo pepper (adjust to your preferred spice level)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Pair it with
Instructions
1. Sauté Vegetables:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and peppers (optional) and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Cook the Tomato Sauce:
Stir in the chopped tomatoes, Aleppo pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
3. Add the Eggs:
Pour the beaten eggs into the pan with the tomato mixture. Gently stir to combine. It’s fine if the eggs and tomato mixture are not fully homogenous—the slight separation is part of the dish’s signature look.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Once the eggs are cooked to your desired consistency, garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with warm, crusty bread for dipping.
Tips:
- For a richer flavour, use a combination of olive oil and butter to sauté the vegetables.
- Add some crumbled feta in during the cooking process for a creamier outcome.
- If the tomatoes don't release enough liquid, you can add a splash of water or vegetable broth to make it more saucy
FAQs
1. What vegetables can I add to Menemen?
While the classic recipe uses onions and green peppers, you can also add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to enhance the flavour and texture.
2. Can I make Menemen without eggs?
Yes! You can substitute the eggs with tofu or chickpea flour for a vegan version. This will provide a similar texture and savoury flavour.
3. How do I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a milder Menemen, reduce or skip the Aleppo pepper flakes. You can always add more spice later to taste.
4. What kind of bread should I serve with Menemen?
Menemen is best served with warm, crusty bread like Turkish pide, sourdough, or any other fresh bread. It’s perfect for soaking up the delicious tomato sauce.
5. Can I add cheese to my Menemen?
Yes! Crumbled feta or even a sprinkle of grated cheese can be added during the cooking process for extra creaminess and flavour.
6. How can I make my Menemen more saucy?
If you find the sauce too thick, simply add a splash of water or vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency.
7. How do I store leftovers?
Menemen is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet on low heat to avoid overcooking the eggs.
Video demonstration
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