why make this recipe
Menemen is a beloved Turkish breakfast dish that combines simple ingredients to create something truly delicious. Its mix of eggs, tomatoes, and peppers creates a comforting meal perfect for starting your day. The vibrant flavors and quick cooking time make it an appealing choice for anyone looking to whip up a satisfying meal without much fuss. It’s also versatile, allowing you to adjust the heat level to your taste, making it great for any palate.
how to make Menemen
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil or Butter (or 1 tablespoon of each)
- 1 medium Yellow Onion, finely chopped
- 2 Turkish Green Peppers (Sivri Biber) or 1 Green Bell Pepper, deseeded and finely chopped
- 1 Jalapeño or other spicy chili, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 3 large Ripe Vine Tomatoes, finely diced (about 2 cups) OR 1 can (14.5 oz / 400g) diced tomatoes, drained
- ½ teaspoon Sea Salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground
- 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (preferably Turkish Pul Biber/Aleppo Pepper for its mild heat and fruity notes)
- ½ teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 4 large Eggs, preferably free-range
- Fresh Parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
- Crusty Bread, for serving
Directions
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Begin by meticulously preparing all your vegetables. Finely chop the onion, green peppers, and the optional jalapeño. Dice the fresh tomatoes or have the canned tomatoes drained and ready. Having everything prepped (mise en place) is crucial as the cooking process moves quickly.
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Place a 10-inch skillet or a traditional sahan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and/or butter. Once the oil shimmers or the butter is melted and foamy, add the chopped onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft, translucent, and has lost its raw bite.
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Add the chopped green peppers and optional jalapeño to the skillet. Cook for another 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the peppers soften and may have a few lightly charred spots.
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Add the diced tomatoes to the pan along with the salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano. Stir everything together. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mixture should break down into a rich, chunky sauce.
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Create four small wells in the sauce and gently crack one egg into each. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the eggs cook for 2-4 minutes, depending on your preference.
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For a more scrambled texture, lightly whisk the eggs in a bowl before pouring. After adding the eggs, use a spatula to gently fold and stir them into the sauce until cooked to your liking.
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Once the eggs are cooked, sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve it immediately in the pan with plenty of crusty bread for dipping.
how to serve Menemen
Menemen is best served hot directly from the skillet. Place the skillet in the center of the table to let everyone enjoy it straight away. The crusty bread is perfect for scooping up the flavorful mixture.
how to store Menemen
If you have leftovers, let them cool completely. Store Menemen in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the eggs may continue to cook while stored, affecting their texture when reheated.
tips to make Menemen
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Adjust the heat by adding less or more chili.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for an authentic Turkish touch.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, whisk the eggs before adding them.
variation
You can add ingredients like feta cheese, spinach, or mushrooms to customize your Menemen. Experiment to find your favorite combination!
FAQs
1. Can I make Menemen without onions?
Yes, you can skip the onions if you prefer a simpler version. The dish will still be delicious without them.
2. Is Menemen spicy?
It can be! You can adjust the heat by adding more or less chili according to your taste.
3. What type of bread is best to serve with Menemen?
Crusty bread, like sourdough or a baguette, works best for dipping into the Menemen. You can also use pita or flatbread.