Turkish Eggs (Cılbır) Recipe – Turkey Special
Turkish Eggs, or Çılbır, is a beloved Turkish breakfast dish that combines perfectly poached eggs with a creamy garlic yogurt base, finished with a spiced butter sauce infused with Aleppo pepper. This dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying start to your day. Often served with crusty bread or pita, it’s a comforting and flavorful meal that’s both simple to prepare and rich in taste.
- Prep Time5 min
- Cook Time10 min
- Total Time15 min
For the Yogurt Base:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 clove garlic, minced or grated
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Poached Eggs:
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
For the Spiced Butter Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper (or substitute with ½ teaspoon paprika + pinch of chili flakes)
For Serving (Optional):
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- Toasted bread, pita, or simit
Prepare the Yogurt Base:
In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and salt until smooth.
Let it sit at room temperature while you prepare the eggs.
Poach the Eggs:
Bring 4 cups of water to a gentle simmer in a saucepan.
Add vinegar (this helps the eggs hold their shape).
Crack an egg into a small bowl.
Create a gentle whirlpool in the water and carefully slide in the egg.
Poach for 3–4 minutes, until the whites are set but the yolk is runny.
Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain excess water.
Repeat with the second egg.
Make the Spiced Butter Sauce:
In a small pan, melt butter over low heat.
Stir in Aleppo pepper or paprika and heat for 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Dish:
Spread the garlic yogurt onto a plate or shallow bowl.
Place the poached eggs on top.
Drizzle with the spiced butter sauce.
Garnish with fresh dill or parsley.
Serve:
Serve immediately with warm toasted bread or pita to scoop up the sauce.
Enjoy your Turkish Eggs (Çılbır) with a cup of Turkish tea!
Recipe Notes:
Yogurt Base: Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a rich and creamy texture.
Poaching Eggs: Add a tablespoon of vinegar to the simmering water to help the eggs hold their shape.
Spiced Butter: Infuse the butter with Aleppo pepper or substitute with paprika and chili flakes for a similar flavor profile.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with toasted Turkish bread, pita, or simit to scoop up the delicious sauce.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the garlic yogurt in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
