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Turkish Eggs (Cilbir)

Perfectly poached eggs on creamy garlic yogurt, topped with spiced butter - an authentic Turkish breakfast that's both elegant and satisfying.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Turkish
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

Garlic Yogurt
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt full-fat
  • 2 cloves garlic minced or grated
  • 0.25 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
Poached Eggs
  • 4 large eggs fresh
  • 2 tbsp white vinegar
  • water for poaching
Spiced Butter
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes
  • 0.5 tsp sweet paprika
  • 0.25 tsp smoked paprika optional
For Serving
  • fresh dill or parsley chopped
  • flaky sea salt
  • crusty bread or toasted sourdough

Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • Large Skillet or Saucepan
  • Small saucepan
  • Slotted spoon

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, salt, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly and let sit at room temperature while preparing other components.
  2. Fill a large skillet with 3 inches of water, add white vinegar, and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat (180-190°F).
  3. Crack each egg into a small cup. Create a gentle whirlpool in the water, then carefully slide egg into the center. Poach for 3-4 minutes for runny yolk.
  4. Remove eggs with slotted spoon and drain on paper towel-lined plate. Trim any wispy edges if desired.
  5. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add Aleppo pepper and paprika, swirl to combine and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Divide garlic yogurt between two shallow bowls, spreading across the bottom. Create a small well in the center of each.
  7. Place 2 poached eggs in each bowl, positioning in the yogurt wells.
  8. Drizzle hot spiced butter over eggs and yogurt. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and flaky sea salt. Serve immediately with toasted bread.

Notes

Fresh eggs work best for poaching. Garlic yogurt can be made up to 2 days ahead. For milder garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw. Adjust spice level in butter to taste.