Turkish Poached Eggs with Garlicky Yogurt (Çılbır)
A traditional Turkish breakfast of poached eggs served over garlicky yogurt, topped with a warm paprika butter sauce and fresh herbs. This rich, savory dish is perfect with toasted bread for dipping and full of bold, comforting flavors.
- Author: Djihane
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1–2 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Poaching
- Cuisine: Turkish
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 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
- 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.
- Bring a saucepan of water to a gentle simmer. (Optional: Add a splash of vinegar to help the eggs hold their shape.)
- Crack the eggs into separate small bowls. Swirl the simmering water to create a vortex and gently drop in the eggs. Poach for 3–4 minutes until whites are set and yolks remain runny.
- Meanwhile, melt butter and olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add paprika and red pepper flakes, stir, and remove from heat once fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Spread the garlicky yogurt onto a serving plate.
- Use a slotted spoon to lift the poached eggs from the water and place them on top of the yogurt.
- Spoon the spiced butter over the eggs, and garnish with fresh dill, chives, salt, and black pepper.
- Serve immediately with toasted rustic bread for dipping.
Notes
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the creamiest texture and richest flavor.
- Aleppo pepper adds authentic mild heat but can be substituted with chili flakes.
- Be sure not to overcook the eggs to keep the yolks soft and runny.
- Warm the yogurt slightly if desired for a more cohesive temperature profile.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 265mg
Keywords: çılbır, Turkish poached eggs, garlicky yogurt, paprika butter, savory breakfast, poached eggs with yogurt