
Turkish Eggs (Cilbir)
Traditional Turkish poached eggs served over creamy garlic yogurt and drizzled with spiced butter. This elegant Ottoman dish combines silky eggs with tangy yogurt and aromatic spices for a sophisticated breakfast.
Ingredients
- 1Large Eggs4 very fresh large eggs
- 2Greek Yogurt1 cup thick Greek yogurt, room temperature
- 3Garlic2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4Butter4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5Paprika1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 6Aleppo Pepper1/2 teaspoon Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes
- 7White Vinegar2 tablespoons white vinegar for poaching
- 8SaltSalt to taste
- 9Fresh Dill2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 10BreadTurkish pide or crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- 1
In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt with minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Let it come to room temperature while preparing other components.
- 2
Fill a large saucepan with water and bring to a gentle simmer. Add white vinegar to help the egg whites set.
- 3
Crack each egg into a small bowl or ramekin for easy poaching.
- 4
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add paprika and Aleppo pepper, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat.
- 5
Create a gentle whirlpool in the simmering water and carefully slide each egg into the center. Poach for 3-4 minutes for runny yolks.
- 6
While eggs poach, divide the garlic yogurt between two serving plates, spreading it in a shallow well.
- 7
Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove each poached egg and briefly touch to a paper towel to remove excess water.
- 8
Place 2 poached eggs on top of each yogurt bed.
- 9
Drizzle the spiced butter generously over the eggs and yogurt.
- 10
Garnish with fresh dill and an extra sprinkle of Aleppo pepper.
- 11
Serve immediately with warm Turkish bread or pide for dipping.
Helpful Links
How to Make Turkish Eggs (Cilbir)
Master the traditional Turkish poached eggs technique
Authentic Cilbir Recipe
Learn to make classic Turkish eggs with garlic yogurt
Cilbir - Turkish Poached Eggs
The Mediterranean Dish's guide to elegant Turkish eggs
Turkish Eggs Recipe
Foolproof method for making cilbir at home
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