Go Back
+ servings
Turkish Eggs (Cilbir)

Turkish Eggs (Cilbir) - A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Delight

Experience the richness of Turkish Eggs (Cilbir), a delicious blend of yogurt, poached eggs, and spiced butter that brightens breakfast.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Turkish
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Yogurt Base
  • 1 cup Turkish or Greek yogurt Use for creamy texture
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh dill Finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh mint leaves Finely chopped
  • 0.5 clove Garlic Crushed
  • Salt and Pepper Season to taste
For the Poached Eggs
  • 2 large Eggs Fresh for best results
  • 1 tablespoon Vinegar Helps coagulate egg whites
For the Spiced Butter Sauce
  • 2 oz Butter Unsalted preferred
  • 1 teaspoon Chili flakes Can substitute with smoked paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon Smoked paprika Adjust to taste

Equipment

  • medium bowl
  • Deep pot
  • Skillet
  • slotted spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Turkish Eggs (Cilbir)
  1. Finely chop the fresh dill and mint leaves, then crush the garlic half to release its flavor. In a medium bowl, combine these ingredients with Turkish or Greek yogurt, stirring until well mixed. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
  2. In a deep pot, bring water to a rolling boil over medium heat, then add the tablespoon of vinegar. Stir the water vigorously to create a gentle vortex. Crack the eggs one at a time into a small bowl and gently slide them into the center of the vortex. Allow them to poach for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until the whites are set and yolks remain runny. Carefully remove the eggs with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  3. In a small skillet, melt the 2 ounces of butter over medium heat until bubbly and foamy. Stir in the chili flakes and smoked paprika, allowing the spices to infuse the butter for about 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat but keep warm until you’re ready to assemble your dish.
  4. On a plate, spread a generous layer of the garlicky yogurt base as the foundation. Place the perfectly poached eggs on the yogurt and drizzle the warm spiced butter sauce over the eggs. Serve immediately.
  5. Garnish with extra chopped dill and mint for a fresh touch. Enjoy with crusty bread or homemade pita on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 300mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 300mgSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use the freshest eggs possible for best results. Adjust seasoning gradually in the yogurt base.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!