Description
Turkish Eggs, or Cilbir, is a flavorful and comforting breakfast dish featuring perfectly poached eggs served over garlicky Greek yogurt and topped with a fragrant, spiced butter drizzle. This Mediterranean classic combines creamy, tangy yogurt with runny eggs and a smoky, mildly spicy butter sauce, garnished with fresh herbs and served alongside toasted crusty bread. It’s a quick and elegant recipe that brings bold flavors and a rich texture contrast to your morning table.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Eggs and Yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Spiced Butter
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (Aleppo pepper preferred)
For Serving
- Chopped fresh dill or parsley, for garnish
- Toasted sourdough or crusty bread
Instructions
- Poach the Eggs: Bring a small pot of water to a gentle simmer. Optionally, add a splash of vinegar to help the eggs coagulate. Crack each egg into a small bowl, then gently slide the eggs one at a time into the simmering water. Poach them for 3 to 4 minutes until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny.
- Prepare the Yogurt Mixture: While the eggs are poaching, combine the Greek yogurt with the minced garlic and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix well until smooth and flavorful.
- Heat the Spiced Butter: In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the paprika and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the butter is fragrant and the spices are well infused. Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread the garlicky yogurt mixture evenly onto serving plates or shallow bowls. Using a slotted spoon, gently lift the poached eggs out of the water and place them carefully on top of the yogurt.
- Drizzle and Garnish: Pour the warm spiced butter over the eggs and yogurt. Season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh dill or parsley.
- Serve: Serve immediately with toasted sourdough or crusty bread for dipping and enjoying all the rich flavors together.
Notes
- Use Aleppo pepper for authentic flavor and a balanced mild heat instead of regular red pepper flakes.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the yogurt for a brightness that complements the richness of the butter and eggs.
- Fresh herbs like dill or parsley add a vibrant freshness—feel free to customize based on your preference.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the creamy yogurt and spiced butter sauce.
