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Menemen

Menemen is a traditional Turkish breakfast dish featuring eggs gently cooked with simmered tomatoes, peppers, and spices, resulting in a soft, saucy mixture with tender eggs and bright, caramelized vegetables. It is typically finished with fresh herbs and feta, offering a rich aroma and a comforting, slightly chunky final texture.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Turkish
Calories: 230
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium ripe tomatoes chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper bell pepper seeded and chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • to taste Salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Cast-iron skillet or frying pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  2. Add the chopped bell peppers and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly and become fragrant.
  3. Add the chopped tomatoes and ground cumin to the skillet, stirring well. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes break down and become saucy, with some caramelization around the edges.
  4. Using a spoon, create little wells in the tomato and pepper mixture, then crack the eggs directly into these spaces, spacing them evenly.
  5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet loosely, and cook for 4-5 minutes until the egg whites are just set and yolks remain runny for a creamy consistency.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle crumbled feta and chopped parsley over the top, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Gently serve hot directly from the skillet with crusty bread or fresh pita on the side for a complete meal.

Notes

For a smokier flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or briefly char the peppers before adding to the skillet.