Pastırmalı Menemen (Turkish Scrambled Eggs with Pastrami)

Pastırmalı Menemen is a delicious variation of the traditional Turkish menemen, where eggs are scrambled with tomatoes, peppers, and in this case, the savory addition of pastırma. This hearty dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. The smoky flavor of pastırma takes this classic dish to the next level, making it both rich and flavorful.

Servings: 2-3
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs
  • 100g (3.5 oz) pastırma, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika or pul biber (optional, for spice)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  • Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion (if using) and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the chopped bell pepper and cook for another 4-5 minutes until the peppers are tender.
  • Cook the Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes have softened and the mixture has thickened slightly. You want the tomatoes to release their juices and create a saucy base for the eggs.
  • Add the Pastırma: Add the thinly sliced pastırma to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until the pastırma starts to release its flavor. Be careful not to overcook the pastırma, as it can become tough.
  • Scramble the Eggs: In a bowl, lightly whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Make a small well in the center of the tomato-pastırma mixture and add the butter. Pour the eggs into the skillet, stirring gently to scramble them into the vegetables and pastırma. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the eggs are just set but still creamy.
  • Serve: Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with warm, crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy!

Things to Consider

  • Onion Optional: Traditional menemen doesn’t always include onion, but it can add a nice sweetness to balance the flavors of the pastırma. Feel free to omit it if you prefer.
  • Egg Consistency: For a creamier texture, cook the eggs gently and avoid overcooking. If you like your eggs more firm, cook them a bit longer.
  • Pastırma Flavor: If you’re new to pastırma, you can reduce the intensity by removing the çemen (spice coating), or leave it on for a bold, authentic taste.

Tips

  • Serving: Pastırmalı Menemen is best served with fresh, warm bread like simit or pide for scooping up the delicious mixture.
  • Spicing it Up: If you like a bit of heat, add pul biber or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra spice.
  • Variations: You can add a little feta or beyaz peynir (white cheese) to the dish for an extra layer of flavor.

Pastırmalı Menemen is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any time of day. The combination of fresh vegetables, eggs, and pastırma creates a delicious and satisfying meal with a unique Turkish twist. Afiyet olsun!





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