FoodTurkish menemen. Revolutionize your breakfast with this simple recipe

Turkish menemen. Revolutionize your breakfast with this simple recipe

Menemen is an interesting variation on scrambled eggs.
Menemen is an interesting variation on scrambled eggs.
Images source: © Adobe Stock

2:45 PM EDT, April 12, 2024

If you want a twist on traditional scrambled eggs, consider trying menemen. This Turkish delight offers the whole family a delightful, nourishing start to the day, combining vegetables, herbs, and vibrant spices into a singular experience. Feel free to personalize it with additions like capers, your preferred cheese, or sausage. Let menemen inspire a new favorite version of scrambled eggs for you.

Menemen, also known as Turkish scrambled eggs, is a cherished breakfast option in Turkey that promises to quell your hunger. Its primary ingredients are tomatoes, peppers, and eggs. During my visit to Turkey, I would generously load my plate with this dish, securing the recipe from the head chef of our hotel.

Menemen as a dish embodies the essence of Turkish breakfast culture. The core ingredients encompass eggs and various vegetables, principally tomatoes and peppers. Although adding onions can be debated, they are often included for added flavor, especially when menemen serve as a main dish rather than just for breakfast.

The cooking process involves sautéing the vegetables before incorporating the beaten eggs, then gently cooking the mixture over low heat till the eggs are perfectly set but still tender. Traditionally, menemen is accompanied by bread, seasoned with various spices such as salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, cumin, mint, and thyme, enhancing its rich flavor.

Menemen boasts variations across Turkish regions, with some recipes inviting ingredients like feta cheese, capers, or additional herbs. Preparing Turkish scrambled eggs at home is straightforward, and the following recipe will guide you through creating your delicious version.

Ingredients:

Menemen is full of flavor and aroma.
Menemen is full of flavor and aroma.© Pixabay
- 4 eggs
- 7 oz fresh tomatoes, peeled (canned tomatoes are also fine)
- 1 small bell pepper
- Half an onion
- 1 clove of garlic
- 2 teaspoons of butter
- Salt, pepper, a pinch of chili
- Parsley for garnish

Preparation:

1. Dice the onion and bell pepper, and crush the garlic.
2. Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat, then sauté the onion, pepper, and garlic until slightly browned.
3. Add the tomatoes to the pan and cook until the liquid is reduced.
4. Season with chili, salt, and pepper.
5. Introduce the eggs to the pan, stirring well, and cook to your preferred consistency.
6. Garnish the menemen with chopped parsley before serving.
This menemen recipe offers a delightful variation to your morning routine, bringing the flavors of Turkey right into your kitchen.
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