Menemen (Turkish Egg Scramble)
Menemen (Turkish Egg Scramble) is a classic Turkish breakfast made with eggs gently cooked in a flavorful mixture of tomatoes, peppers, olive oil, and spices. This one-pan Mediterranean dish is soft, savory, and perfect for scooping with warm bread. Ready in about 15 minutes, Menemen is a quick and comforting meal ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 2 medium tomatoes finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 small garlic clove minced (optional)
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Crumbled feta cheese optional
Instructions
- Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk lightly. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced green bell pepper and cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened.
- If using garlic, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes break down and form a thick sauce.
- Stir in paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Pour the beaten eggs into the skillet with the tomato mixture.
- Stir gently while the eggs cook, combining them with the vegetables.
- Cook until the eggs are soft and slightly creamy, not fully dry.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and optional crumbled feta cheese.
- Serve immediately with warm bread for dipping.
Notes
- Menemen should remain soft and slightly saucy, so avoid overcooking the eggs.
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Stir gently while cooking to keep the eggs tender.
- Traditionally, Menemen is served directly from the skillet with bread for scooping.