Name: Menemen with Beyaz Peynir or Feta – Turkish Scrambled Eggs Recipe
Prep time: 7 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients: 3 tbsp Olive Oil (or Vegetable Oil); 1 large Red Onion, diced; 1 clove Garlic, sliced; ½ Red Bell Pepper, diced (or Roma); 3 Sivri Peppers, cut into rounds (or 6 Padron Peppers or ½ Green Pepper); 3 large Tomatoes, diced or pureed; ¾ tsp Red Chilli Flakes; 1 tsp Aleppo Chilli Flakes; Salt and Black Pepper, to taste; 1 tsp Smoked Paprika (optional); 1 tsp Ground Cumin (optional); 4 large Eggs; 25 g Feta Cheese, crumbled (or Beyaz Peynir)

If you’re looking for a vibrant, comforting, and utterly delicious breakfast or brunch dish, you have got to try this Menemen with Beyaz Peynir or Feta – Turkish Scrambled Eggs Recipe. It’s a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, spices, and creamy cheese all melded together by the magic of gently scrambled eggs. This dish bursts with bright flavors while remaining incredibly simple to prepare, making it a beloved staple in Turkish kitchens and a perfect way to start your day with sunshine on your plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image showing a small white ceramic bowl with a textured surface, filled with four different spices separated into small sections: coarse pink salt, red chili flakes, a ground reddish-brown spice, and a fine black and white mix. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. Behind the bowl, there is a can with a red and white label, a glass bottle of yellow oil on the left, and a carton of eggs on the right side. Two long green chili peppers and a small purple onion are positioned near the bowl. A woman's hand is about to pick one of the items. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a crucial role in delivering that authentic Menemen magic. From the sweetness of the tomatoes to the kick from Aleppo chili flakes and the creamy tang of Beyaz Peynir or feta, everything combines beautifully. Let’s break down why each one is indispensable to this Menemen with Beyaz Peynir or Feta – Turkish Scrambled Eggs Recipe.

Olive Oil (3 tbsp): This forms the rich, silky base for sautéing and adds a fruity depth to the dish.
Red Onion (1 large, diced): Adds natural sweetness and a delicate crunch that softens as it cooks.
Garlic (1 clove, sliced): Provides that subtle aromatic punch that wakes up the senses.
Red Bell Pepper (½, diced): Brightens the dish with color and delivers a sweet, mellow flavor.
Sivri Peppers (3, cut into rounds) or Padron Peppers (6) or ½ Green Pepper: Adding a mild heat and unique peppery undertone that makes Menemen sing.
Red Chilli Flakes (¾ tsp): Offers just the right amount of warmth without overpowering.
Aleppo Chilli Flakes (1 tsp): The secret star spice, giving Menemen its signature slightly fruity, smoky heat.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to enhance every ingredient.
Tomatoes (3 large, diced or pureed): The heart of the dish, creating a luscious, tangy sauce.
Eggs (4 large): Light and fluffy, they are the glue that holds all vibrant flavors together.
Feta or Beyaz Peynir (25 g, crumbled): Adds a salty, creamy tang that contrasts perfectly with the tomato base.
Smoked Paprika (1 tsp, optional): For an added smoky depth that enhances the spice profile.
Ground Cumin (1 tsp, optional): Invokes earthy warmth and complexity.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Menemen with Beyaz Peynir or Feta – Turkish Scrambled Eggs Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating your olive oil gently in a frying pan. Add the diced red onion and sliced garlic, cooking them slowly so they soften and release their wonderful aroma without browning. This base creates a lightly sweet and fragrant foundation that sets the tone for everything else.

Step 2: Add the Peppers

Next, toss in the diced red bell pepper along with the Sivri or alternative peppers. Allow them to sauté together with the onions and garlic for about 3 to 4 minutes. This softens the peppers while preserving their fresh flavor and vibrant color, essential for that beautiful Menemen look and balance.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Sprinkle in the red chilli flakes, Aleppo chilli flakes, salt, and pepper. If you love your Menemen with a deeper flavor profile, stir in the smoked paprika and ground cumin now. Cook everything together for another minute, letting the spices bloom and infuse the veggies before bringing the tomatoes in.

Step 4: Simmer the Tomatoes

Add the diced or pureed tomatoes to the pan and stir well. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook on medium-low heat for about 10 minutes. This slow cooking melds the flavors, softens the tomatoes to a gorgeous saucy consistency, and develops the sweetness you expect from a great Menemen with Beyaz Peynir or Feta – Turkish Scrambled Eggs Recipe.

Step 5: Add the Eggs and Cheese

After simmering, create little pockets in the tomato and pepper sauce and crack the eggs directly into these spaces. Let the whites set just slightly before gently scrambling them with the sauce. Then, sprinkle the crumbled feta or Beyaz Peynir on top. Cook for a few more minutes until the eggs are softly cooked and the cheese starts to melt slightly, finishing off your dish beautifully.

How to Serve Menemen with Beyaz Peynir or Feta – Turkish Scrambled Eggs Recipe

The image shows a close-up view of a pan filled with a cooked dish that has several colorful layers. The base layer is a mix of chunky red and green bell peppers, along with cooked ground meat, all coated in a rich red tomato sauce. Scattered on top are melted patches of yellow cheese blending into the sauce. Crumbled white cheese is spread unevenly over the dish, adding texture and contrast. The pan has a dark interior, and the whole dish looks warm and hearty. The background surface is a white marbled texture photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill add a lovely herbal brightness to the finished Menemen. A drizzle of good quality olive oil over the top can elevate the flavors even more. Don’t shy away from a sprinkle of extra chili flakes if you enjoy an extra kick!

Side Dishes

This Menemen with Beyaz Peynir or Feta – Turkish Scrambled Eggs Recipe is perfect when accompanied by warm, crusty bread or traditional Turkish pide to scoop up that luscious tomato-egg mixture. A side of olives or a simple cucumber and tomato salad keeps the meal light and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Menemen in individual shallow bowls for a more elegant brunch. You can also turn it into a sharing platter, surrounded by fresh herbs, cheese, and roasted vegetables for a colorful spread that impresses guests. Adding a dollop of yogurt on the side provides a cooling creamy contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though this is rare!), transfer them to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors will settle and taste even better the next day.

Freezing

Because of the eggs and fresh ingredients, freezing Menemen is not recommended. The texture of eggs and vegetables changes unfavorably after thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating

When reheating leftovers, do it gently over low heat in a skillet to maintain the tender texture of the eggs and avoid drying out the sauce. You can add a splash of water or olive oil if the mixture looks too thick.

FAQs

Can I use regular feta instead of Beyaz Peynir?

Yes, regular feta works wonderfully as a substitute. Both cheeses bring that creamy, salty tang that complements Menemen perfectly.

What if I don’t have Aleppo chili flakes?

If Aleppo flakes are hard to find, you can substitute with a mix of mild crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a similar fruity heat.

Is Menemen traditionally spicy?

Menemen has a gentle spice level that can be adjusted to your taste with the amount of chili flakes used. It’s typically flavorful without being too hot.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Some like to add mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach to their Menemen. Just be mindful of cooking times so everything stays tender and cohesive.

Is Menemen served hot or warm?

Menemen is best enjoyed hot or warm, right after cooking, to savor its fresh, comforting flavors and delicate egg texture.

Final Thoughts

This Menemen with Beyaz Peynir or Feta – Turkish Scrambled Eggs Recipe is a joyful celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s a dish that warms the heart and brightens any morning or casual meal. I promise once you try it, you’ll find yourself craving this vibrant, cheesy, tomato-rich scramble again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and dive into this delicious Turkish classic—you won’t regret it!

Menemen with Beyaz Peynir or Feta – Turkish Scrambled Eggs Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need