Description
Turkish Eggs, or Cilbir, is a delightful and simple Turkish breakfast dish featuring silky poached eggs served over a garlicky herbed Greek yogurt, topped with a warm, spicy butter sauce. This recipe combines the creamy tang of yogurt with the richness of poached eggs and aromatic herbs, providing a flavorful and comforting meal perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients
Scale
Yogurt Mixture
- 1 cup Greek or Turkish yogurt
- ½ garlic clove, minced
- A handful of fresh dill, chopped
- A handful of fresh mint leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Poached Eggs
- 2 fresh eggs
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (for poaching eggs)
Spiced Butter
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the Yogurt: In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with minced garlic, chopped dill, and chopped mint. Mix thoroughly until well blended. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed for a balanced flavor.
- Poach the Eggs: Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil and add 1 tablespoon of vinegar to the water to help the egg whites coagulate faster. Use a spoon to create a gentle vortex in the water. Crack the eggs one at a time into the center of the vortex. Allow the eggs to poach for 2 to 3 minutes for a runny yolk or longer to your preferred doneness. Remove the eggs carefully with a slotted spoon.
- Make the Spiced Butter: While the eggs are poaching, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small pan over medium heat. Once melted, add the chili flakes and smoked paprika. Stir continuously until the mixture is fragrant and well combined, taking care not to burn the spices or butter.
- Plate the Dish: Spread the prepared yogurt mixture evenly onto serving plates to create a base layer. Gently place the poached eggs on top of the yogurt, ensuring they remain intact.
- Garnish and Serve: Drizzle the warm spiced butter over the eggs and yogurt to add richness and heat. Garnish with additional fresh dill and mint leaves for freshness and color. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Use fresh eggs for the best poaching results.
- The vinegar in the poaching water helps the egg whites set quickly and neatly.
- Adjust chili flakes and smoked paprika quantities to control the spice level.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm spiced butter and cool yogurt.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Turkish
