Eggs with vegetables in Turkish style (Menemen)

Menemen: Turkish-style Eggs with Vegetables

Menemen is a traditional recipe from Turkish cuisine that offers a delicious combination of eggs, fresh vegetables, and flavors that can transform any meal into a celebration. This dish is perfect for a hearty breakfast or a quick and tasty dinner. Let’s explore this simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe that will bring a touch of sunshine to your day.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper (can be red or green), halved and sliced
- 1-2 hot peppers, chopped (adjust to taste)
- 400 g fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- 4 fresh eggs
- For serving:
- 6 tablespoons of full-fat yogurt
- 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
- ½ bunch of fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: First, ensure all ingredients are ready and within reach. Slice the onions thinly, cut the bell pepper into strips, and dice the tomatoes. If using hot peppers, remove the seeds if you prefer less heat. These details are essential for a successful dish.

2. Heating the oil: In a heavy-bottomed pan, add the two tablespoons of oil and heat over medium heat. Olive oil will add a subtle flavor, but you can also opt for vegetable oil if you prefer something more neutral.

3. Sauté the vegetables: Add the onions and bell peppers to the pan. Stir constantly for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become soft and translucent. The secret to delicious Menemen is not to let the vegetables brown, but to soften them gently.

4. Add the tomatoes: Once the onions and peppers have softened, add the diced tomatoes. Mix well and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes. Add the teaspoon of sugar to counteract the acidity of the tomatoes, a trick that will greatly enhance the final taste.

5. Reducing the liquid: Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces and the mixture becomes thicker. This process will take about 5-10 minutes. Here you can also add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

6. Add the eggs: Using a wooden spoon, create four small wells in the vegetable mixture. Crack an egg into each well. Cover the pan with a lid and let the eggs cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the whites are fully cooked, but the yolks remain soft (or more cooked if you prefer).

7. Preparing the yogurt: In the meantime, in a bowl, mix the yogurt with the crushed garlic. This combination will add a creamy and flavorful touch to your dish.

8. Serving: Once the eggs have reached your desired consistency, remove the pan from heat. Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for a fresh note. Serve the Menemen warm, alongside the garlic yogurt mixture. Don’t hesitate to add a slice of fresh bread to soak up the deliciousness from the pan.

Helpful tips:

- For a spicier Menemen: If you like heat, you can add more hot peppers or even some slices of jalapeños.
- Vegetable variations: You can experiment with different vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, to add more color and nutrients.
- For extra flavor: Dried oregano or cumin can be added during cooking for an extra boost of taste.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can Menemen be made in advance? Although it is best served fresh, you can prepare the vegetable mixture a few hours ahead and add the eggs just before serving.
- How can I store leftovers? If you have leftover Menemen, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Nutritional benefits:

Menemen is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the eggs and fresh vegetables. Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, while tomatoes provide antioxidants like lycopene, which contribute to heart health. Yogurt adds a portion of probiotics, beneficial for digestion.

Conclusion:

Menemen is a versatile and easy-to-adapt recipe that can quickly become your favorite. Whether you serve it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this dish will bring joy to your table. So gather the ingredients and start your cooking adventure! Enjoy your meal!