Turkish Eggs with Garlicky Yogurt and Spiced Butter Recipe
Turkish Eggs, also known as Çılbır, is a traditional Turkish breakfast dish featuring perfectly poached eggs served over a creamy, garlicky yogurt base, topped with a fragrant, spiced melted butter sauce infused with chili flakes and smoked paprika. Garnished with fresh dill and mint, this dish offers a delightful balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors, making it a unique and satisfying way to start the day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Turkish
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Yogurt Base
- 1 cup Turkish or Greek yogurt
- A handful fresh dill
- A handful fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 garlic clove
- Salt and pepper to taste
Poached Eggs
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
Spiced Butter Sauce
- 2 oz butter (55g)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the Yogurt Base: Finely chop the fresh dill and mint leaves. Crush or grate the garlic clove. Combine the chopped herbs and garlic with the yogurt in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Poach the Eggs: Fill a deep pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of vinegar to the water to help coagulate the egg whites. Using a spoon, create a gentle vortex in the boiling water. Crack an egg into the center of the vortex and cook for 3 minutes for a perfectly runny yolk. Use a slotted spoon to remove the egg and set it aside. Repeat the process for the second egg.
- Make the Spiced Butter Sauce: In a frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter starts bubbling, add the chili flakes and smoked paprika. Stir continuously until the spices are well combined and the sauce slightly thickens, releasing a fragrant aroma.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread a thick layer of the garlicky herb yogurt on a serving plate or in a small bowl as the base. Gently place the poached eggs on top of the yogurt.
- Finish and Garnish: Drizzle the spiced butter sauce evenly over the eggs and yogurt. Garnish with additional fresh dill and mint leaves, and add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor and aroma.
- Ensure the vinegar is added to the poaching water to help the egg whites set neatly.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your spice preference.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm spiced butter and cool yogurt.
- Use full-fat yogurt for a creamier texture.
Keywords: Turkish eggs, Cilbir, poached eggs, yogurt sauce, Turkish breakfast, spiced butter sauce, Mediterranean breakfast
