This traditional Turkish dish is consist of poached eggs served over a bed of garlicky yogurt, typically drizzled with spiced butter or olive oil, often garnished with herbs such as parsley, mint or dill and served with bread for dipping. It’s a flavorful and satisfying breakfast or brunch option that’s popular in Turkey and has gained popularity in other parts of the world as well.

INGREDIENTS

4 large eggs

2 cups plain yogurt

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons white vinegar

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt to taste

Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

HERE’S HOW YOU MAKE IT!

1. In a small saucepan, bring water to a gentle simmer. Add the vinegar.
2. Crack each egg into a separate cup or ramekin.
3. Using a spoon, create a whirlpool in the simmering water. Carefully slide one egg into the center of the whirlpool. Repeat with the remaining eggs.
4. Poach the eggs for about 3-4 minutes until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny. Use a slotted spoon to remove the eggs and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess water.
5. In a small bowl, mix the yogurt and minced garlic together. Season with salt to taste.
6. Divide the garlic yogurt mixture among serving plates, spreading it out to create a bed for the eggs.
7. Carefully place the poached eggs on top of the yogurt.
8. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking. Remove from heat and add the paprika. Stir well to infuse the oil.
9. Drizzle the paprika-infused olive oil over the eggs and yogurt.
10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
11. Serve immediately with crusty bread or pita for dipping.

VARIATIONS OF TURKISH EGGS

Spinach Çilbir: Add a layer of sautéed spinach between the yogurt and the poached eggs for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition. Simply sauté spinach with olive oil and garlic until wilted, then layer it on top of the yogurt before adding the poached eggs.

Avocado Çilbir: For a creamy twist, mash ripe avocado and mix it into the yogurt along with some lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Spread the avocado yogurt mixture on the serving plates before adding the poached eggs.

Tomato and Pepper Çilbir: Sauté diced tomatoes and bell peppers with onions and garlic until softened. Spread the mixture on top of the yogurt and poached eggs for a burst of color and flavor.

Mediterranean Çilbir: Top the poached eggs and yogurt with chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with dried oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.

Spicy Çilbir: Add a kick of heat by stirring harissa or chili flakes into the yogurt before assembling the dish. Top with poached eggs and a drizzle of spicy chili oil for an extra fiery flavor.

Herbed Çilbir: Mix chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, cilantro, or mint into the yogurt before spreading it on the serving plates. Garnish with additional herbs for a fresh and fragrant variation.

Smoked Salmon Çilbir: Replace the poached eggs with slices of smoked salmon for a luxurious twist on the traditional dish. Layer the smoked salmon on top of the yogurt and garnish with capers, red onion slices, and fresh dill.

Feel free to experiment with different toppings and flavors to customize Çilbir to your taste preferences.