A classic Turkish breakfast dish made with silky poached eggs nestled on top of garlicky yogurt and drizzled with warm spiced paprika butter. Finished with fresh herbs and served with toasted rustic bread, this is a savory, comforting plate with layers of flavor and velvety textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Çılbır offers a unique combination of cool, tangy yogurt, runny poached eggs, and warm, aromatic butter infused with paprika and chili. It’s nourishing, visually appealing, and deeply satisfying. This dish is quick to prepare, high in protein, and a refreshing departure from traditional Western breakfasts. Serve it with crusty bread for a hearty yet elegant start to the day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
• 1 garlic clove, finely grated
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (Aleppo or chili flakes)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh dill, chopped
• Chives, chopped
• 1 thick slice rustic bread or sourdough, toasted

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with grated garlic and a pinch of salt. Let it sit at room temperature while you prepare the eggs.
2. Bring a medium saucepan of water to a gentle simmer. Optionally, add a splash of vinegar to help the egg whites set quickly.
3. Crack each egg into a small bowl. Stir the simmering water to create a gentle vortex and carefully lower the eggs into the center.
4. Poach the eggs for 3–4 minutes until the whites are set and the yolks remain runny. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain briefly on paper towels.
5. While the eggs are poaching, melt the butter and olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Stir in the sweet paprika and red pepper flakes. Cook just until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat.
6. Spread the garlicky yogurt onto a serving plate or shallow bowl.
7. Place the poached eggs on top of the yogurt.
8. Spoon the warm spiced butter over the eggs.
9. Garnish with fresh dill, chopped chives, salt, and black pepper.
10. Serve immediately with toasted rustic bread.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 1 to 2 people.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Labneh Swap: Use labneh instead of Greek yogurt for a thicker, tangier base.
• Mint Garnish: Replace dill and chives with fresh mint for a refreshing flavor twist.
• Smoky Version: Use smoked paprika instead of sweet for a deeper, smokier flavor.
• Spicy Upgrade: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter if you like extra heat.
• Vegan Version: Replace eggs with sautéed mushrooms and use plant-based yogurt and butter.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is best served fresh and does not store well once assembled.
However, components can be prepped in advance:

• The garlicky yogurt can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• The spiced butter can be made ahead and gently reheated before serving.
  Poached eggs should be made fresh for best results. If necessary, poach and store in cold water in the fridge for a few hours, then reheat briefly in warm water.

FAQs

What is Çılbır?

Çılbır is a traditional Turkish dish made with poached eggs served over garlicky yogurt and topped with spiced butter.

Can I make this dish without poaching the eggs?

While poaching is traditional, you can use soft-boiled or even fried eggs if preferred.

What type of yogurt works best?

Full-fat Greek yogurt provides the best texture and flavor, but strained yogurt or labneh also work well.

Can I use other spices in the butter?

Yes, cumin, sumac, or za’atar can be added for a different flavor profile.

Is this dish traditionally served hot or cold?

The yogurt is served cool or room temperature, while the eggs and butter are warm, creating a pleasant contrast.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the yogurt and butter in advance, but it is best assembled just before serving.

What kind of bread should I serve with Çılbır?

Rustic sourdough, flatbread, or toasted pita are ideal for scooping up the yogurt and eggs.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply scale the ingredients proportionally to serve more people.

Is this dish suitable for brunch?

Absolutely—its flavor and presentation make it an excellent brunch option.

How can I make this lower in fat?

Use low-fat Greek yogurt and reduce the butter slightly if desired, though the richness is key to traditional flavor.

Conclusion

Turkish Poached Eggs with Garlicky Yogurt (Çılbır) is a sophisticated yet easy-to-make dish that brings international flair to your breakfast or brunch table. With its balance of creamy yogurt, runny yolk, and spicy butter, it offers a complex flavor profile that’s deeply comforting and endlessly satisfying. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.

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