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Turkish Eggs (Çılbır)

Turkish Eggs (Çılbır) are a traditional Turkish breakfast made with poached eggs served over garlic yogurt and topped with Aleppo pepper butter.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine Turkish

Ingredients
  

  • Yogurt Spread
  • 1 cup Turkish yogurt or Greek yogurt room temperature
  • 1 garlic clove grated
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon salt optional
  • Pinch cayenne pepper
  • tablespoons fresh dill finely chopped
  • Aleppo Butter
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon Aleppo pepper flakes
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
  • Parsley Jalapeño Oil Optional
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tablespoon jalapeño pepper diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Pinch salt
  • Poached Eggs
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 4 large eggs
  • Pinch sea salt

Instructions
 

Prepare the Yogurt Spread

  • Place the Greek yogurt in a medium bowl.
  • Grate the garlic directly into the yogurt.
  • Add black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
  • Stir in the chopped dill.
  • Mix thoroughly until smooth.
  • Set aside at room temperature.

Make the Aleppo Butter

  • Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  • Continue heating until the butter begins to bubble gently.
  • Add the Aleppo pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and cumin.
  • Stir until fully combined.
  • Remove from the heat and allow the spices to infuse.

Prepare the Parsley Jalapeño Oil (Optional)

  • Finely mash the parsley and jalapeño together.
  • Stir in the olive oil.
  • Season with a pinch of salt.
  • Set aside.
  • Poach the Eggs
  • Fill a large saucepan with 2–3 inches of water.
  • Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Add the vinegar.
  • Crack each egg into a small bowl.
  • Carefully slide each egg into the simmering water.
  • Cook for 2½–3 minutes until the whites are set and yolks remain soft.
  • Remove with a slotted spoon.
  • Gently pat dry using paper towels.

Assemble the Turkish Eggs

  • Divide the yogurt mixture between serving plates.
  • Spread it out using the back of a spoon, creating small ridges.
  • Drizzle with a little parsley jalapeño oil if using.
  • Place two poached eggs on each plate.
  • Spoon the warm Aleppo butter generously over the eggs.
  • Finish with a pinch of sea salt.
  • Serve immediately with warm bread.
  • Tips & Tricks
  • Bring yogurt to room temperature before serving.
  • Fresh dill adds authentic flavor.
  • Don't allow the poaching water to boil vigorously.
  • Crack eggs into individual bowls before poaching.
  • Use fresh eggs for the best poaching results.
  • Warm crusty bread is essential for serving.
  • Aleppo pepper can be substituted with mild red pepper flakes if necessary.

Notes

  • Turkish yogurt offers a slightly tangier flavor than Greek yogurt.
  • The parsley oil is optional but adds freshness and color.
  • Serve immediately while the butter is still warm.
  • Fresh herbs elevate the overall flavor profile.