What is Menemen made of?

Menemen is made with eggs, tomatoes, green peppers, onions, olive oil, and a mix of spices like Aleppo pepper, oregano, and black pepper. It’s a classic Turkish breakfast dish, often served hot in a skillet with crusty bread on the side. Cheese and sucuk (Turkish sausage) are optional variations.

What is the difference between shakshuka and Menemen?

Though both dishes are made with eggs and tomatoes, the key differences lie in texture, spice profile, and preparation. Shakshuka (from North Africa and the Middle East) is thicker and typically includes garlic, chili, cumin, and poached eggs. Menemen, on the other hand, has a softer texture with beaten eggs folded into the mix and is typically milder with a base of onions and peppers.

How to make Menemen step by step?

Here’s a quick rundown: Sauté onions and green peppers in extra virgin olive oil . Add chopped vine tomatoes and tomato paste; season with oregano, Aleppo pepper, black pepper , and kosher salt . Push the mixture aside in the skillet, add beaten eggs , and stir gently over low heat until just set. Fold everything together and serve hot with bread.

What cheese is used in Menemen?

While cheese is optional, the most common ones include: Beyaz Peynir (Turkish white cheese) Kasar Peyniri (semi-hard Turkish cheese) Mozzarella or Feta as Western alternatives. Cheese adds richness and texture, transforming Menemen into a more indulgent dish.

Menemen Recipe – The Best Turkish Breakfast Dish (Easy)

Ingredients

Scale

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 green pepper, chopped
Salt to taste
2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
3 tbsp tomato paste
Black pepper to taste
½ tsp oregano
1 tsp Aleppo pepper
4 large eggs, beaten
Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes
Optional: French baguette slices

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Instructions

Heat oil in a skillet. Sauté onions and peppers with salt until soft.
Add tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices. Simmer for 5–7 mins.
Lower heat. Add eggs and cook gently until just set.
Fold mixture together, garnish, and serve immediately with bread.

Author: Lily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Additional Time: 0 hours
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
Calories: 290
Sugar: 7
Sodium: 640
Fat: 21
Saturated Fat: 3
Carbohydrates: 14
Protein: 11
Cholesterol: 280