Menemen (Turkish Eggs)
This Menemen (Turkish Eggs) recipe is a delicious, easy-to-make breakfast featuring soft scrambled eggs cooked with tomatoes, Anaheim pepper, and spices. Perfectly seasoned and served with crusty bread, this Turkish-inspired dish is a cozy and flavorful start to any day!
Equipment
- 10-inch skillet
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ⅓ cup diced Anaheim pepper, deseeded (about 1 medium)
- 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes, thoroughly drained (or 1 cup peeled, diced fresh tomatoes)
- ¼ cup onion, diced (optional)
- 1 tsp paprika
- ⅛ tsp red pepper flakes (use Turkish red pepper if available)
- ¼ tsp salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Crusty bread for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Peppers (and Onions, if using): In a 10-inch skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add ⅓ cup diced Anaheim pepper (and ¼ cup diced onion, if using) and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Add 1 can of diced tomatoes, drained (or 1 cup fresh diced tomatoes) to the skillet. Stir in 1 tsp paprika, ⅛ tsp red pepper flakes, and ¼ tsp each of salt and black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes to soften tomatoes.
- Add and Lightly Scramble the Eggs: Lower the heat to low, crack the eggs into the pan, and gently scramble with a fork. Then use spatula and fold them into the tomato mixture.
- Finish and Garnish: Cook for 2-3 more minutes to your desired consistency. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with crusty bread, if desired.
Notes
Tomatoes
For the best flavor with fresh tomatoes, make sure they’re peeled before dicing. Canned tomatoes also work well and provide a slightly richer taste.
Pepper Choice
Anaheim pepper is used here as it has a mild heat level and flavor closer to Turkish peppers than green bell pepper. Be sure to deseed the pepper for optimal texture and flavor.
Spice Level
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, use Turkish red pepper flakes if available, or add a pinch more.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with warm crusty bread or pita to scoop up the eggs and sauce.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!