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BREAKFAST

Turkish Cilbir (Poached Eggs with Garlicky Yogurt)

Cilbir is a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring perfectly poached eggs served over a bed of creamy, garlicky yogurt, and finished with a warm, spiced butter sauce. It's a surprisingly simple yet elegant dish that's both comforting and flavorful.

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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, minced garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

02

Fill a medium saucepan with about 3-4 inches of water. Add a pinch of salt to the water and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. The water should have small bubbles, not a rolling boil.

03

Carefully crack each egg into a separate small ramekin or bowl. This helps maintain their shape when poaching.

04

Gently slide each egg, one at a time, into the simmering water. Poach for 3-4 minutes for soft, runny yolks, or longer for firmer yolks. Remove the eggs with a slotted spoon and drain any excess water.

05

While the eggs are poaching, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the Aleppo pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the butter.

06

Divide the garlicky yogurt evenly between two shallow bowls. Create a slight well in the center of the yogurt.

07

Carefully place two poached eggs into the well of yogurt in each bowl.

08

Spoon the warm spiced butter over the poached eggs and yogurt.

09

Garnish generously with fresh chopped dill and serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping.

About This Recipe

Cilbir is a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring perfectly poached eggs served over a bed of creamy, garlicky yogurt, and finished with a warm, spiced butter sauce. It's a surprisingly simple yet elegant dish that's both comforting and flavorful.
Turkish Cilbir (Poached Eggs with Garlicky Yogurt)
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
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Chef's Tips

For perfectly poached eggs, ensure the water is at a gentle simmer, not boiling. Adding a splash of white vinegar to the poaching water (about 1 tablespoon per quart) can also help the egg whites set more quickly and neatly.
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Easy Substitutions

If Aleppo pepper is unavailable, use sweet paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick. Fresh mint can be used instead of dill for a different herbal note. For a lighter option, use low-fat plain yogurt, though full-fat provides a creamier texture.
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Storage & Reheating

Cilbir is best enjoyed fresh. Leftover components can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day, but the eggs will not retain their ideal poached texture upon reheating.
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