Turkish Eggs (Cilbir) Recipe

Turkish Eggs, or Cilbir, is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. Poached eggs are served over a bed of creamy, garlicky yogurt, topped with spiced butter and fresh herbs. This recipe brings together the richness of yogurt, the comforting texture of poached eggs, and the warmth of spiced butter, making it an ideal choice for a quick, satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy eggs or want to impress guests with a Middle Eastern-inspired dish, Cilbir is the way to go.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Turkish Eggs, or Cilbir, are a delightful combination of creamy yogurt, perfectly poached eggs, and flavorful spiced butter. The yogurt provides a refreshing base with a bit of tang, while the eggs are soft and runny, offering a rich contrast to the creamy yogurt. The spiced butter drizzled on top adds warmth and depth, while fresh mint and dill bring a refreshing, aromatic finish. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers a balance of flavors that’s sure to satisfy. Perfect for a leisurely weekend breakfast or brunch!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup yogurt (Turkish or Greek)

• A handful of fresh dill

• A handful of fresh mint leaves

• ½ garlic clove

• 2 eggs

• 1 tablespoon vinegar

• 2 oz butter (55g)

• 1 teaspoon chili flakes

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare the Yogurt Mixture:

1. Finely chop the dill and mint. Crush or grate the garlic clove and combine it with the yogurt. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the yogurt mixture aside.

Poach the Eggs:
2. Fill a deep pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of vinegar to the water. Create a vortex by stirring the water, then crack the egg into the middle of the vortex. Cook for 3 minutes for perfectly poached eggs with runny yolks.
3. Remove the poached egg with a slotted spoon and set it aside while you cook the second egg.

Make the Spiced Butter:
4. In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter starts to bubble, add the chili flakes and smoked paprika. Stir until the spices are well incorporated, creating the spiced butter.

Assemble the Dish:
5. Spread a thick layer of the garlicky yogurt mixture on a serving plate or small bowl.
6. Place the poached eggs on top of the yogurt base.
7. Drizzle the spiced butter over the eggs and yogurt. Garnish with additional fresh mint, dill, and black pepper before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Servings: 2 servings

Variations

• Milder Version: Swap the chili flakes for sweet paprika for a milder flavor.

• More Flavor: Add a pinch of ground cumin or a squeeze of lemon juice to the yogurt for extra zest.

• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free yogurt and plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Turkish Eggs are best served fresh, but the yogurt mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Poached eggs do not reheat well, so it’s best to serve the dish immediately after preparing.

FAQs

1. Can I use non-fat yogurt?

Yes, you can use non-fat yogurt, but full-fat yogurt provides a richer taste and texture.

2. How do I make the eggs less runny?

To cook the eggs less runny, increase the cooking time by 1-2 minutes until you reach your desired consistency.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the yogurt mixture and spiced butter in advance, but it’s best to poach the eggs just before serving.

4. Can I use a different type of yogurt?

Yes, you can use any kind of yogurt, but Turkish or Greek yogurt provides the best creamy and tangy flavor.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, sautéed spinach or roasted tomatoes would pair wonderfully with this dish.

6. How do I prevent the eggs from breaking while poaching?

Create a gentle vortex in the water and add the eggs carefully to ensure the whites stay intact.

7. Can I use a poaching pan instead of a regular pot?

Yes, a poaching pan works well to keep the eggs in shape while cooking.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Turkish Eggs are naturally gluten-free.

9. How can I adjust the spice level?

If you prefer a less spicy version, reduce the chili flakes or omit them altogether.

10. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used in place of butter for a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

Turkish Eggs (Cilbir) are a perfect way to start your day, offering a balanced mix of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. This dish is easy to prepare, nutritious, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re making it for yourself or serving it to guests, Cilbir is sure to be a hit. Give this Middle Eastern-inspired dish a try for a unique breakfast or brunch experience!