FoodDiscover the allure of menemen. Turkey's vibrant twist on breakfast eggs

Discover the allure of menemen. Turkey's vibrant twist on breakfast eggs

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

12 April 2024 09:15

If you want a twist on the usual scrambled eggs, allow Menemen to inspire you. This Turkish gem offers a hearty and flavourful breakfast option for the entire family. Loaded with vegetables, herbs, and bold spices, you can personalize it with additions like capers, your preferred cheese, or sausage. Let Menemen encourage you to discover your new favorite take on scrambled eggs.

Menemen, or Turkish scrambled eggs, enjoy popularity as a breakfast choice in Turkey, guaranteed to quell your morning hunger. Primarily consisting of eggs, tomatoes, and peppers, its rich content was something I indulged in frequently during my visit to Turkey, managing to secure the recipe directly from a hotel head chef.

Menemen is a cornerstone of Turkish breakfast cuisine, highlighting eggs and vegetables, particularly tomatoes and peppers, as its base. While some enjoy adding onions for a richer taste, others argue that onions should be reserved for when menemen serves as a main dish rather than breakfast.

The cooking process starts with sautéing the vegetables and incorporating beaten eggs. The mixture is gently cooked until the eggs are set but remain tender. Often, menemen is enjoyed with bread, enhancing its authentic taste with spices like salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, cumin, mint, and thyme.

Menemen's versatility shines in its regional variations, where ingredients such as feta cheese, capers, or specific herbs might be added. Preparing this Turkish delight at home is straightforward, as outlined in the recipe below.

Menemen is full of flavour and aroma.
Menemen is full of flavour and aroma.© Pixabay

Ingredients

- 4 eggs,
- 200 g (roughly 7 oz) fresh tomatoes peeled (canned 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. Finely chop the onion and bell pepper; crush the garlic through a press.
2. Melt the butter in a frying pan. Add the vegetables and sauté until they start to brown.
3. Incorporate the tomatoes and cook down until the liquid evaporates.
4. Season with chili, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Introduce the eggs, stirring well, and cook to your preferred consistency.
6. Garnish the menemen with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
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