How To Make MENEMEN, Famous Turkish Egg Dish
This traditional Turkish breakfast Menemen is packed with fresh vegetables, eggs, and cheese, making it perfect for any meal of the day.
Ingredients
Tomatoes
- 1 large common tomato similar to beef tomato and 2 plum tomatoes (meaty and ideal for cooking) You can use whatever is available on the market. Of course it is always better to have fresh from the season but if not, try frozen chopped tomatoes or canned.
Peppers:
- 2-3 medium sweet or mild peppers Thin “kıl biber” is commonly used at homes if available but light green peppers and “köy biberi” in darker green color which isnt spicy as well are also commonly used.
Cheese:
- 70 g about 3-4 slices Kashar cheese (mozzarella-like, for melting)
- 80 g 80g Turkish white cheese Beyaz Peynir, feta-like – optional
- 3-4 medium eggs adjust based on preference
Seasonings:
- 1/2 tsp Salt and “pul biber” chili flakes to taste optional
Fats:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Additions:
- 1 medium onion, chopped optional
- 1-2 cloves garlic, sliced optional
- 50-70 g sujuk or pastrami, sliced for extra flavor
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
- Dice the tomatoes into medium-sized chunks. If the skin is too thick, you can peel them.
- Slice the peppers. For a balanced heat, use a combination of light green and dark green peppers. If using, slice the capia pepper and “köy biberi” as well.
Cook the Menemen
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium-sized pan over medium heat. If using, add chopped onions and garlic at this stage. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the sliced peppers and sauté until they soften, about 5 minutes. Cover the pan to help steam the peppers.
- Add the diced tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes. Use a spoon or potato masher to lightly mash the tomatoes, creating a chunky sauce.
- Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk lightly. Pour the beaten eggs over the tomato and pepper mixture.
- Tear the Kashar cheese into pieces and scatter over the eggs. Cover the pan and cook until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted, about 5 minutes.
- Serve hot with crusty Turkish bread or any bread of your choice. Enjoy the rich, cheesy, and tomatoey goodness!