If you're looking to elevate your breakfast game with a dish that's both flavorful and visually stunning, Turkish Eggs (Çılbır) are the perfect choice! This traditional Turkish dish features creamy, garlicky yogurt, poached eggs, and a drizzle of spiced butter for a satisfying and delicious start to your day.

Overhead image of Turkish Eggs in a bowl

Why You'll Love This Easy Egg Recipe

Easy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a gourmet breakfast in under 20 minutes.
Healthy. Protein-packed and full of beneficial probiotics from the yogurt.
Flavorful. The combination of garlic-infused yogurt, perfectly poached eggs, and a spicy butter drizzle creates a rich and indulgent meal.
Versatile. Serve this dish for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner!

Turkish Eggs are a delightful balance of textures and flavors—rich, creamy yogurt, soft poached eggs, and the warm heat of paprika and chili in the butter. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a luxurious breakfast!

What Do Turkish Eggs Taste Like?

Turkish eggs, or Çılbır, have a unique and delicious flavor profile. The dish combines creamy, garlicky yogurt with the rich, velvety texture of poached eggs, topped with a buttery sauce infused with paprika and chili flakes.

What Is The Difference Between Shakshuka And Turkish Eggs?

Both are delicious egg dishes, but Shakshuka is more tomato-heavy and savory, while Turkish Eggs are lighter, with a tangy, creamy base.

Ingredients You'll Need

Eggs- Fresh, free-range eggs are best for achieving perfectly poached eggs.
Greek Yogurt- Use thick, creamy Greek yogurt for a rich base.
Garlic- Freshly minced garlic adds a savory kick to the yogurt.
Butter- Unsalted butter helps you control the saltiness of the dish.
Paprika- Smoked or sweet paprika adds a touch of spice and color.
Aleppo Pepper (or Red Pepper Flakes)- For that extra heat in the butter drizzle.
Fresh Dill or Parsley- Optional garnish for added freshness and color.

How To Make Turkish Eggs

Prepare the Yogurt Base. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Set aside, allowing the flavors to meld.
Poach the Eggs. Bring a pot of water to a simmer. Add a splash of vinegar to help the egg whites set. Crack one egg into a small bowl and gently slide it into the water. Poach the eggs for 3-4 minutes, until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.
Make the Spiced Butter. In a small pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the paprika and Aleppo pepper (or red pepper flakes). Heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but be careful not to burn the butter.
Assemble the Dish. Spread the garlicky yogurt onto a plate. Place the poached eggs on top of the yogurt. Drizzle the spiced butter over the eggs and yogurt.
Garnish and Serve. Top with freshly chopped dill or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve with warm crusty bread or pita for dipping.

Close up image of Turkish Eggs in a bowl with a knife

Tips And Tricks

Making Turkish Eggs is quite simple, but these tips will ensure you get the best results every time:

Use Fresh Eggs. The fresher the egg, the better it will hold its shape during poaching. Fresh eggs will result in firmer whites and perfectly runny yolks.
Poaching Perfect Eggs. If you're nervous about poaching, use the whirlpool method—stir the water to create a gentle swirl and drop the egg in the center. This helps the egg whites wrap around the yolk.
Infuse the Yogurt. Let the garlic sit in the yogurt for at least 10 minutes before serving. This infuses the yogurt with a wonderful garlicky flavor.
Adjust Spice Levels. If you prefer more heat, add an extra pinch of Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes to the butter sauce.

Variations

While traditional Turkish Eggs are amazing on their own, you can customize the dish with a few creative twists:

Spinach- Sauté a handful of spinach with garlic and serve it under the poached eggs for extra greens.
Avocado- Add slices of creamy avocado to complement the richness of the yogurt and eggs.
Lemon-Herb- Mix a little lemon zest and juice into the yogurt for a fresh and zesty twist on the traditional recipe.

What To Eat With Turkish Eggs

Turkish Eggs are a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides for a complete meal. Here are some ideas:

Crusty Bread or Pita- Perfect for dipping into the rich yogurt and butter sauce.
Roasted Vegetables- Serve alongside roasted tomatoes, peppers, or mushrooms for a wholesome brunch.
Salad- A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the dish.

How Long Do They Last?

Turkish Eggs are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store components like the garlicky yogurt and spiced butter separately in the fridge.

Yogurt: The yogurt mixture can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Eggs: While poached eggs are best served immediately, you can poach them in advance and store them in water in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in warm water for a few seconds before serving.

Can You Freeze Them?

No, freezing Turkish Eggs is not recommended, as poached eggs do not freeze well, and the yogurt may separate. It’s best to enjoy them fresh for the best taste and texture.

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