Menemen (Scrambled eggs with vegetables)
Menemen Recipe - Scrambled Eggs with Vegetables from Cyprus
Introduction
Menemen is a traditional Turkish dish made with scrambled eggs, tomatoes, and green peppers. It is a delicious and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
History
Menemen has been a popular dish in Turkey for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Izmir region of Turkey, where it was traditionally made with fresh vegetables and eggs from the local farms.
Ingredients
- 8 well-beaten eggs
- 2 green peppers, seeded and cut into thin rings
- 3 small or medium tomatoes, skinned and chopped
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 30 g (2 tbsp) butter
How to prepare
- 1. Melt the butter in a large pan.
- 2. Add the pepper rings and cook them for a few minutes.
- 3. Then add the chopped tomatoes and cook until the juice is reduced by half.
- 4. Mix in the well-beaten eggs and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- 5. Cook the eggs while stirring constantly.
- 6. Serve immediately.
Variations
- Add crumbled feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
- Include onions or garlic for added flavor.
- Top with fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to cook the peppers and tomatoes until the juice is reduced by half to ensure a flavorful and not watery dish.
- Stir the eggs constantly while cooking to achieve a creamy and fluffy texture.
- Serve the Menemen immediately after cooking to enjoy it at its best.
Serving Suggestions
Menemen can be served on its own as a main dish, or with a side of crusty bread or rice for a more filling meal. It pairs well with a fresh salad or yogurt on the side.
Cooking Techniques
Menemen is best cooked over medium heat in a large pan to ensure even cooking of the eggs and vegetables. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent the eggs from sticking to the pan.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have green peppers, you can use red or yellow peppers instead. You can also use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available.
Make Ahead Tips
Menemen is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Menemen in individual bowls or on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Menemen pairs well with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or Turkish tea for a complete and satisfying meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Menemen is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Menemen contains approximately 200 calories.
Carbohydrates
Menemen is a low-carb dish, with each serving containing approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Menemen contains about 15 grams of fat, primarily from the eggs and butter used in the recipe.
Proteins
Menemen is a good source of protein, with each serving providing around 12 grams of this essential nutrient.
Vitamins and minerals
Menemen is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the tomatoes and green peppers.
Alergens
Menemen contains eggs and butter, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.
Summary
Menemen is a nutritious and delicious dish that is low in carbohydrates and high in protein. It is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Summary
Menemen is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for any meal of the day. With its simple ingredients and flavorful taste, it is sure to become a favorite in your household.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Turkey. My grandmother, may she rest in peace, was a wonderful cook and she had a knack for creating delicious dishes out of simple ingredients.
One day, as I was helping my grandmother in the kitchen, she handed me a basket of fresh vegetables from the garden and told me to make something with them. I was a bit nervous, as I had never cooked on my own before, but I was determined to impress her.
I started chopping the tomatoes, peppers, and onions, and sautéed them in a pan with some olive oil. The smell of the vegetables cooking was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to see what the end result would be.
When the vegetables were soft and fragrant, my grandmother showed me how to crack some eggs into the pan and scramble them together with the vegetables. As the eggs cooked, she added a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
When the dish was finished, my grandmother scooped some of the menemen onto a plate and handed me a fork. I took a bite, and my taste buds were instantly awakened by the explosion of flavors. The rich, creamy eggs combined with the sweet and tangy vegetables created a dish that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.
From that moment on, menemen became a staple in our household. My grandmother made it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and it quickly became one of my favorite dishes. Whenever I had a bad day or needed some comfort, a plate of menemen always seemed to do the trick.
As I grew older and started my own family, I continued to make menemen for my loved ones. I shared the recipe with my children and grandchildren, passing down the tradition of this delicious dish through the generations.
Over the years, I have made menemen in many different ways. Sometimes I add feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean twist, other times I throw in some spinach or mushrooms for a bit of extra nutrition. But no matter how I make it, the memory of that first time I made menemen with my grandmother will always hold a special place in my heart.
Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the familiar sights and smells of cooking, I can't help but think of my grandmother and how her love and passion for food has shaped my own culinary journey. Menemen may just be a simple dish of scrambled eggs and vegetables, but to me, it represents so much more. It is a reminder of family, tradition, and the joy that comes from sharing a delicious meal with the ones you love. And for that, I am forever grateful.
Categories
| Cypriot Recipes | Cypriot Vegetarian | Green Bell Pepper Recipes |