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Authentic Turkish Eggs : A Nourishing Breakfast

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If you’ve been looking to add something bold, creamy, and savory to your breakfast time lineup, look no further than Turkish Eggs, also known as Çılbır.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Eggs:

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 tablespoon vinegar (for poaching water)

  • Water (for poaching)

For the Garlic Yogurt Base:

  • 1 cup (240g) plain full-fat yogurt (room temperature)

  • 1 small clove garlic, finely grated or minced

  • Salt to taste

For the Spiced Butter Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

  • ½ teaspoon paprika (or Aleppo pepper for traditional flavor)

  • A pinch of chili flakes (optional for heat)

To Serve:

  • Fresh dill or parsley (optional)

  • Crusty bread, pita, or simit (Turkish sesame bread)

This recipe serves 1–2, but it’s easy to scale up for larger breakfasts or breakfast brunch recipes with family and friends.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Yogurt

In a bowl, combine the yogurt, grated garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust salt if needed.

Let it sit at room temperature while you prepare the other elements. This step ensures the yogurt isn’t cold when served.

Step 2: Poach the Eggs

Fill a saucepan with water and bring to a gentle simmer. Add 1 tablespoon vinegar to help the eggs hold their shape.

Crack an egg into a small bowl. Swirl the simmering water to create a gentle vortex, then carefully drop the egg into the center. Poach for 2.5 to 3 minutes until the whites are set and yolk remains runny.

Remove with a slotted spoon and gently blot with a paper towel. Repeat with the second egg.

Tip: Don’t let the water boil too aggressively—gentle simmering gives the best poached eggs.

Step 3: Make the Spiced Butter Sauce

In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it starts to foam. Add paprika and chili flakes (if using). Stir and let it sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant, then remove from heat.

The result is a vibrant, aromatic red butter that will transform your eggs into something magical.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Spoon the garlic yogurt onto a plate or shallow bowl. Place the poached eggs on top of the yogurt.

Drizzle generously with the warm paprika butter and garnish with chopped fresh herbs, extra chili flakes, or a swirl of olive oil.

Serve immediately with crusty bread or warm pita to scoop up every bit of creamy, spicy goodness.

Notes

✅ Use Room-Temperature Yogurt – Cold yogurt can dull the flavor and shock the eggs. Let it sit out while you prep.
✅ Don’t Overdo the Garlic – A little goes a long way. Start small, then add more to taste.
✅ Control Your Heat – The butter should sizzle but not brown. You want flavor, not bitterness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Turkish Recipes

Find it online: https://lyndyskitchen.com/authentic-turkish-eggs-a-nourishing-breakfast/