The dish
Menemen, Turkey
Plate up
Can there be any singular ingredient that surpasses, in versatility and flavor, something as basic yet remarkable as an ordinary egg? It stands among the globe’s most cherished foods, a protein-rich staple found across every menu—from Mexico to Moldova, and from Japan to Jamaica. The roster of celebrated egg preparations around the world undoubtedly features Turkey’s own contribution to scrambled delights: menemen.
This single-skillet delight could enhance any morning spent along a Mediterranean beach: chopped tomatoes, green bell peppers, and occasionally onions are cooked in a frying pan. Then add slices of sucuk sausage from time to time, followed by whisked eggs mixed thoroughly with the rest of the components. Sprinkle some crumbled cheese and finely cut fresh herbs over the top, serve directly from the skillet alongside a piece of rustic bread. Accompany this dish with robust Turkish coffee and let the shimmering sea views complete your perfect start to the day.
First serve
One-pan egg preparations are far from rare in regions bordering the Mediterranean: think of shakshuka From the Maghreb region, or huevos revueltos (scrambled eggs) in Spain, we find dishes with distinct roots. The origin of menemen can be readily traced back since it takes its name from the Turkish town where it allegedly originated: Menemen, located in the coastal area of İzmir province. It’s believed this culinary delight surfaced sometime during the era of the Ottoman Empire; pinpointing an accurate date proves challenging. Nonetheless, what is clear is how straightforward it was for locals to mix together locally available components found abundantly across the lush Aegean farmlands—vegetables, eggs, and bread naturally lent themselves to such fusion.
Order there
In the picturesque coastal area of Antalya, enjoy menemen while overlooking the sea at restaurant number 7 Mehmet. 7mehmet.com ).
Order here
For an excellent Turkish breakfast in Sydney, head over to Taste of Turkey in Newtown. tasteofturkey.com.au If you're in Melbourne, check out the Sunday brunch at Halikarnas. halikarnas.com.au In Adelaide, make your way to Hatun Café. hatuncafe.com.au ).
One more thing
If you wish to enjoy menemen as the locals do, skip using a fork and dive in with your hands instead. A common practice among many Turks involves scooping up the eggs with pieces of bread rather than utensils—a method that appears much more enjoyable.
