Menemen (Turkish Scrambled Eggs) | Kitchenstagram
Turkish Menemen is an irresistible dish that effortlessly transcends mealtime boundaries, serving as a delightful breakfast, lunch or dinner option with minimal effort. In just 20 minutes or less, you can whip up this one-pan wonder, featuring soft, flawlessly scrambled eggs infused with the vibrant flavours of tomatoes, peppers, eggs and cheese. Traditionally Menemen is served hot and bubbling in the skillet. Although Menemen is the star of the well prepared Turkish Breakfast. Breakfast in Turkish culture is not just a meal but social event. Gathering over a spread of savoy and sweet delights, including menemen, is a weekend ritual. A large teapot filled with Turkish tea is a constant companion, enhancing the communal aspect of the morning meal.
This easy Menemen recipe captures the essence of Turkish-style scrambled eggs, a symphony of textures and taste that make it the perfect anytime meal. The harmonious blend of eggs and tomatoes, combined with the savoury crunch of peppers and cheese, creates a culinary masterpiece. Pair it with your favourite crusty bread for an added layer of satisfaction.
For those who relish savory and hearty egg dishes, Menemen offers a Turkish twist that elevates the simple pleasure of scrambled eggs. Whether enjoyed as a comforting breakfast or a quick dinner solution, Menemen promises a deliciously fulfilling experience that will leave you craving more.
What is Menemen?
Menemen is a delectable Turkish dish that has its roots in the picturesque market town of Menemen, located near north Izmir. Legends has it that Cretan Turks, who migrated to this town, were the culinary pioneers behind this hearty egg scramble. A staple in Turkish breakfasts, Menemen is a delightful one-pan concoction, showcasing a harmonious blend of scrambled eggs, tomatoes, and peppers.
The preparation is refreshingly straightforward, with a touch of dried herbs, commonly oregano, and a hint of heat from chili sauce or chili flakes. The use of Jalapeno peppers adds depth and earthiness, while Capsicum Pubescences and a dash of red chili sauce or hot red pepper flakes contribute a satisfying spiciness.
Menemen serves as a versatile dish, perfect for brunch or dinner, paired ideally with pancakes or crusty bread- thick slices being the ideal choice to soak up the rich flavours. While traditionally a highlight of Turkish breakfasts, this scrambled egg delight transcends morning meals and finds its place on lunch and dinner tables. Particularly favoured during the summer months when tomatoes and peppers are at their peak, Menemen becomes a quick, satisfying option for Turkish households.
Difference between Menemen and Shakshuka:
Menemen and Shakshuka, while sharing similarities as savory breakfast dishes, each boast distinctive characteristics that set them apart.
Shakshuka, originating from North African cuisine, has found popularity in Middle Eastern countries. It features eggs cooked undisturbed in a chunky tomato and pepper mixture, resulting in a sunny-side-up appearance. The sauce can be enriched with smoked paprika, olives, chorizo and cilantro, providing a flavourful twist. Shakshuka is often finished in the oven, lending a unique texture to the eggs.
On the other hand, Menemen is a Traditional Turkish dish often referred to as the “Turkish Omelet”. It comprises eggs, peppers, tomatoes and spices cooked down in a pan with oil. The distinctive feature of Menemen is that the eggs are scrambled, offering a different texture and appearance compared to Shakshuka. While it i a popular Turkish breakfast option, Menemen is versatile and can be served as a main course. The dish can be enhanced by adding Pul biber (red pepper flakes), Sujuk (Turkish sausages, herbs like parsley, mint and crumbled white cheese, although these are personal preferences and not part of the original recipe. One notable variation in Menemen is the option to leave the eggs whole after adding them to the tomatoes and pepper mixture, resembling the braised eggs in Shakshuka. However, this style is less common in Menemen, with the scrambled egg version being more popular.
Both dishes offers a delightful blend of flavours and textures, with Menemen having a distinct Turkish touch and Shakshuka embracing a broader Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influence. Whether you prefer the sunny-side up appearance of Shakshuka or the scrambled eggs in Menemen, both dishes provide a satisfying and hearty breakfast or main course option. So, whether you’re sopping up the pan sauce with crusty bread in Menemen or finishing off the oven-baked goodness of Shakshuka, this dishes are sure to please your taste buds.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
Simple ingredients: Indulge in the sheer simplicity and exquisite taste of this scrambled eggs with fresh tomatoes, peppers cheese, herbs and spices- a culinary masterpiece that effortlessly transcends breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Delightful flavour: The magic lies in the infusion of flavors- fresh and juicy tomatoes, red chili paste, spices, eggs and cheese come together harmoniously, creating a symphony of taste in every bite. It’s a culinary adventure that tantalizes your taste buds with every bite.
Effort: what sets this recipe apart is its minimalistic approach, using everyday ingredients to create a delightful dish. With only a handful of ingredients, you’ll find it a breeze to whip up this savory delight. The recipe demands little effort, ensuring a quick preparation that fits seamlessly into your busy schedule.
One-Pan Wonder: The convenience of preparing the entire dish in a single pan minimizes equipment needs and simplifies the cooking process.
Texture: Moreover, the Menemen promises an exquisite texture. The secret lies in the gentle cooking of the eggs, removing from the heat just before they finish, allowing them to perfect themselves on the journey to your table.
Ingredients for Menemen:
The allure of Turkish scrambled eggs with tomatoes lies in its delightful simplicity and the harmonious blend of fresh, flavourful ingredients. This dish, particularly popular during the summer months, encapsulates the essence of perfect breakfast. Let’s delve into the key components that make this Turkish delicacy so special.
Butter or Oil: Butter is often preferred for its richness and the velvety creaminess it imparts to the dish. Alternatively, olive oil, with its distinct flavour, is a common choice in Turkey, adding a unique twist to the Menemen. Whether you opt for the indulgence of butter or the Mediterranean touch of olive oil, the decision rests o your personal preference.
Green peppers: Green Peppers are a staple ingredient in Menemen, providing a subtle heat and refreshing crunch. In Turkey, the recipe traditionally incorporates fresh green peppers such as Turkish sivri biber or carliston biber. However, the adaptability of the dish allows for the substitution of local peppers available in your area. Green bell peppers serves as a suitable alternative, and the adventurous can experiment with red, orange and green peppers. Thicker-walled peppers with a hint of heat, like jalapenos, contributes to the dish’s substance. While the original slightly-spicy green peppers may be elusive, you can use any spicy pepper of your choice, such as Capsicum Pubescences.
Tomatoes: The heart of the dish lies in the use of fresh, flavourful tomatoes, especially during the bounty of summer. The choice of tomatoes significantly influences the ultimate taste of the Menemen. Whether peeled or unpeeled, grated or chopped, the decision is yours. For those pressed for time or unable to find fresh tomatoes, store-bought tomato sauce is a convenient substitute.
Eggs: The beauty of Menemen lies in its flexibility, even when it comes to the number of eggs. There’s no strict rule; you can adjust the quantity based on the number of people partaking in this delightful breakfast.
Spices: Elevating the flavour profile are the spices, including homemade red chili paste or Red chili flakes, a generous sprinkle of black pepper and optional addition like cumin and oregano. These spices contribute depth and warmth to the dish.
Herbs: Oregano finds its way into the Menemen, enhancing the herbal undertones. Fresh herbs like parsley add a burst of freshness, bringing vibrancy to the overall composition.
Cheese: While cheese is optional, particularly crumbled feta or melty options like mozzarella or Monterrey jack, can transform the Menemen into a delightful cheese omelet, adding a layer of richness to the dish.
Garnish: Top off your Menemen with chopped Parsley or chives for a visually appealing and aromatic finish. Traditionally, menemen is served with good bread, perfect for dipping and spreading. You can also explore accompaniments like tortillas, spicy chili flakes, crumbled feta cheese or queso fresco to elevate the dining experience.
What to serve with Menemen:
Crusty Bread: Menemen begs to be savoured with crusty bread on the side. Whether it’s a rustic baguette. A hearty loaf or Turkish Simit, the bread is a essential vessel for soaking up the flavourful juices of scrambled eggs and vegetables.
Bazlama or Ramazan Pidesi: Serving Menemen with Turkish breads like Bazlama or Ramazan Pidesi enhances the overall experience, offering a variety of textures and flavours.
Turkish Tea: In Turkish food culture, serving Turkish tea with Menemen is a must. The robust and aromatic tea provides a warm and comforting contrast to the rich and flavourful dish.
Cold Ayran or Cacik dip: On hot summer days, consider accompanying Menemen with a refreshing glass of cold ayran or a bowl of cacik dip. These cooling options provide a delightful contrast to the warmth of the scrambled eggs.
Turkish Orzo Rice pilaf: For a heartier option during lunch or dinner, menemen can be served with Turkish Orzo Rice pilaf. This alternative pairing brings a different texture to the table, creating a well-rounded meal.
Storage Tips:
Store any leftover Menemen in airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can gently reheat them in a pan or in microwave to enjoy again.
Ingredients
2 nos. Jalapeno
2 nos. Capsicum Pubescences
2 nos. Tomatoes
2 tbsp Butter
1 tbsp Red chili paste/ Red pepper flakes
Salt to taste
1 tsp Black pepper powder
1 tsp Dried Oregano
1 tsp Paprika powder
2 nos. Egg
1 cup Mozzarella cheese/young cheddar / Gouda (any kind of melting cheese)
Preparation
- Step 1: Thinly slice the jalapenos and Capsicum Pubescences. Keep aside.
- Step 2: Then grate the tomatoes and discard the skin.
- Step 3: Melt butter in a pan, now add sliced green peppers and for 2 minutes on medium flame.
- Step 4: Then add Homemade Red chili paste and fry for 2 more minutes. Then add tomato puree.
- Step 5: Next add salt, blackpepper and oregano. Cook the sauce on low heat for 7-8 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
- Step 6: Now add 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese and mix well, then add the eggs and and cook briefly, stirring gently as needed, until the eggs are just set. Gently fold the sauce into the eggs.
- Step 7: Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with some paprika and allow the cheese to melt.
- Step 8: Serve immediately with thick slice of breads.
About Me
DEBJANI MONDAL
Welcome to Kitchenstagram, the home of delicious recipes, culinary inspiration and cooking adventures. I’m Debjani and I’m thrilled to be your guide through the wonderful world of food. I’m a self-taught professional baker, home chef, recipe developer, author of Kitchenstagram and an aspiring YouTuber.
My passion for food and cooking began at a very young age, when I would watch my mom and dad cook for me and my brother. My dad, in particular is a great cook whose culinary skills made a lasting impression on me. My dad would cook up a storm on special occasions by cooking variety of dishes, from delicious biriyani to samosa, fish fry, rasgullas and kachoris (sweet & spicy deep fried pastry with filling of lentils, meat or fish…>>>>>
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