How To Make A Turkish Egg Dish At Home

Çilbir is a delicious Turkish dish consisting of poached eggs served on a bed of yogurt with a drizzle of spiced butter. It’s a simple yet flavorful breakfast or brunch option. Here’s a recipe for Çilbir:

Ingredients:

For the Poached Eggs:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar (for poaching)

For the Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste

For the Spiced Butter:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon paprika (you can use sweet or hot paprika, depending on your preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
• Salt to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
• Sumac (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Yogurt Sauce:
   • In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the yogurt is smooth and the garlic is evenly distributed. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Spiced Butter:
   • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
   • Stir in the paprika, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Cook for a minute or two, allowing the spices to infuse into the butter. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Poach the Eggs:
   • Fill a large, shallow pan with water and add the white vinegar.
   • Bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
   • Crack each egg into a small cup or ramekin.
   • Using a spoon, create a gentle whirlpool in the simmering water.
   • Carefully slide the eggs, one at a time, into the swirling water. Poach the eggs for about 3-4 minutes for runny yolks or longer if you prefer them more cooked.
   • Use a slotted spoon to carefully lift the poached eggs out of the water and drain them on a paper towel.
4. Assemble Çilbir:
   • Spread the yogurt mixture evenly onto serving plates or a shallow dish.
   • Place the poached eggs on top of the yogurt.
5. Drizzle with Spiced Butter:
   • Drizzle the spiced butter over the poached eggs and yogurt.
6. Garnish:
   • Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and, if desired, a pinch of sumac for extra flavor and color.
7. Serve:
   • Çilbir is traditionally served warm, and you can enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or pide (Turkish flatbread) on the side for dipping.

Enjoy your homemade Turkish Çilbir! It’s a delightful combination of creamy yogurt, perfectly poached eggs, and flavorful spiced butter. —Vita Daily