[Recipe Inspiration] Turkish Menemen for Festive Gatherings

November is the time for gathering over good food with good company. This Turkish Menemen by Chef Ahu Hettema of Instanbul Hawaii is the perfect dish to add to your next festive gathering. 

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp. fine extra virgin olive oil
• 1 small sweet onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped
• 4 large fresh ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 tsp. fine paprika or pepper paste
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp. finely grated 100% dark chocolate (optional for a rich, complex umami flavor)
• 4 large free-range eggs, lightly beaten
• Fresh microgreens for garnish
• Optional: Fresh parsley, crumbled feta cheese and red pepper flakes for additional garnish 

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the sweet onion and green bell pepper, sautéing until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.  Introduce the chopped tomatoes and paprika or pepper paste to the skillet, stirring to combine. Optional: grate the dark chocolate over the mixture, blending it into the sauce for a subtle depth of flavor. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Reduce the heat and simmer gently, allowing the tomatoes to break down and the sauce to thicken, around 10 minutes. Gently pour the beaten eggs over the simmering tomato mixture. Allow the eggs to set slightly before stirring gently, combining them with the sauce until they are softly set, but still tender. Garnish the dish with a liberal amount of fresh microgreens for a burst of color and texture. If desired, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley, crumbled feta, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra layer of flavor. Serve immediately, ideally with crusty sourdough bread to soak up the rich, flavorful sauce.