26 Mar 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 5 min
Ingredients:
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 onion
1 tsp paprika
2 cans canned tomatoes
4 eggs
4 pita breads
2 garlic cloves
Turkish eggs, also known as 'Menemen,' are a delicious and simple dish that is perfect for breakfast or brunch. This savory recipe combines eggs with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and paprika, all served with warm pita bread. It's a flavor-packed meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by finely chopping the onion.
- Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
- Open the cans of tomatoes and set them aside.
2. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
- In a large skillet or pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Paprika:
- Stir in the paprika and cook for about 1 minute, letting the spice bloom and release its flavors.
- Add the canned tomatoes (with their juice) to the skillet, stirring well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
4. Cook the Eggs:
- Once the tomato sauce has thickened, use a spoon to create four small wells in the sauce, evenly spaced.
- Crack an egg into each well.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still runny. If you prefer firmer yolks, cook for an additional few minutes.
5. Warm the Pita Bread:
- While the eggs are cooking, warm the pita breads. You can do this by placing them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, or by gently heating them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side.
6. Serve:
- Once the eggs are cooked to your preference, remove the skillet from the heat.
- Serve the Turkish eggs hot, directly from the skillet, with the warm pita breads on the side. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if desired.
7. Enjoy:
- Use the pita bread to scoop up the tomatoes and perfectly cooked eggs, enjoying the delicious blend of flavors!
Tips:
- Use fresh, high-quality eggs for the best flavor and texture.
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- You can customize the recipe by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red chili flakes or use spicy paprika.
- Serve the dish immediately while the eggs are still warm and the pita bread is fresh.
Turkish eggs are a versatile and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. The combination of eggs, tomatoes, and spices creates a rich and satisfying meal. Serve it with warm pita bread for a complete and hearty experience. Enjoy this simple yet delicious recipe with your loved ones!