Turkish Menemen with Feta and Fresh Herbs

Menemen is a classic Turkish breakfast dish made with eggs, tomatoes, peppers, and spices. This variation adds the creamy richness of feta cheese and the freshness of herbs, making it even more delicious and hearty. Perfect for brunch or a comforting start to your day, this Turkish Menemen with feta and fresh herbs will become your new favorite way to enjoy this traditional dish.

What You’ll Need:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped (optional)

• 2 green bell peppers, chopped

• 3 large tomatoes, peeled and chopped (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)

• 4 large eggs

• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (optional)

• Fresh bread, for serving

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion (if using) and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the green bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes, until tender.

Why it works: Sautéing the onions and peppers creates a flavorful base for the Menemen, softening the vegetables and enhancing their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Spices

Add the chopped tomatoes, paprika, cumin (if using), and red pepper flakes (if desired) to the pan. Stir well and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the tomatoes break down into a soft sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Why it works: Cooking the tomatoes brings out their juices, creating a rich sauce. The spices add depth and complexity to the dish, while the tomatoes form the core of the flavor.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Make small wells in the tomato mixture and crack the eggs into the wells. Cover the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your liking (soft or fully cooked). You can also scramble the eggs into the tomato mixture for a more uniform texture.

Why it works: Cooking the eggs in the tomato sauce allows them to soak up all the delicious flavors while staying tender and creamy. Covering the skillet helps the eggs cook evenly.

Step 4: Add Feta Cheese and Herbs

Once the eggs are cooked, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the Menemen and let it melt slightly into the warm eggs. Add the fresh parsley and dill (if using), and stir gently to combine.

Why it works: Feta adds a creamy, tangy richness that complements the eggs and tomatoes perfectly. Fresh herbs bring color and brightness to the dish.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your Turkish Menemen with feta and fresh herbs hot, with plenty of fresh bread on the side for dipping. The bread soaks up the flavorful tomato sauce and egg mixture, making each bite even more satisfying.

Why it works: Menemen is traditionally served with bread, allowing you to enjoy every bit of the sauce and eggs. The bread also balances the richness of the feta.

A Creamy, Flavorful Twist on a Classic

This Turkish Menemen with feta and fresh herbs is a delicious and vibrant twist on the classic Menemen. The creamy feta and aromatic herbs elevate the dish, making it even more irresistible. It’s a perfect meal to start your day or serve as a cozy brunch for friends and family.