Turkish Menemen

History:

Menemen is a popular Turkish breakfast dish known for its hearty and flavorful combination of eggs, tomatoes, green peppers, and spices. It's believed to have originated in Izmir, a coastal city on the western side of Turkey. Menemen is a beloved breakfast choice in Turkey and is enjoyed not only for its taste but also for its simplicity and quick preparation.

Ingredients:

For the Menemen:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 green peppers (mild or spicy, depending on your preference), thinly sliced
• 3 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 4-6 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the Olive Oil:

• In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Sauté the Onion and Peppers:

• Add the finely chopped onion and thinly sliced green peppers to the hot oil. Sauté them until they become soft and slightly caramelized.
  
  
  

3. Add the Tomatoes:

• Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to soften.

4. Season with Spices:

• Sprinkle the red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper over the tomato mixture. Adjust the spice level to your preference.

5. Crack the Eggs:

• Create small wells or pockets in the tomato mixture using a spoon. Crack the eggs directly into these wells.

6. Cook the Eggs:

• Cover the pan and let the eggs cook until the whites are set but the yolks are still slightly runny. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

7. Serve:

• Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, remove the pan from heat.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

8. Serve the Menemen:

• Menemen is traditionally served directly from the pan, family-style, with some additional red pepper flakes and fresh bread on the side for scooping up the delicious mixture.

Menemen is a delightful Turkish breakfast dish that's perfect for sharing with friends and family. Its combination of flavors and textures, with the creaminess of the eggs and the zing of the peppers and tomatoes, make it a beloved morning meal in Turkey and beyond. Enjoy your homemade Menemen!