Step into the enchanting world of Turkish cuisine with Çılbır, a delectable breakfast dish that embodies the art of culinary contrast and harmony. At its heart, Çılbır is a celebration of perfectly poached eggs, their silky yolks nestled atop a velvety bed of creamy yogurt. But what truly elevates this dish is the exquisite marriage of flavors and textures, as a drizzle of aromatic spiced butter dances across the plate. Çılbır is more than just a breakfast; it’s a sensory journey that transports you to the heart of Turkish culture, where every bite speaks to centuries of tradition and the joy of savoring simple yet profound pleasures.
- 20 Minutes
Ingredients
1 cup plain yogurt (made with whole milk, at room temperature)
1 to 2 garlic cloves (finely minced)
2 eggs
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 to 2 tablespoons vinegar (optional)
2 teaspoons Aleppo pepper (or red pepper flakes)
Instructions
Prepare the Yogurt Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature plain Greek yogurt and finely minced garlic cloves. Mix well until the yogurt and garlic are thoroughly combined. Set this yogurt sauce aside.
Poach the Eggs:
- Fill a large saucepan with water and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Add the vinegar (if using) to the simmering water; this helps the eggs coagulate more easily.
- Crack each egg into a small bowl or cup, one at a time.
- Create a gentle whirlpool in the simmering water by stirring it with a spoon.
- Carefully slide one egg into the center of the whirlpool. Allow it to poach for about 2-3 minutes for a slightly runny yolk or longer for a firmer yolk. Repeat with the second egg.
- Using a slotted spoon, carefully lift the poached eggs from the water, allowing any excess water to drain. Set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
Assemble Çılbır:
- In individual serving bowls, spread a generous amount of the garlic-infused yogurt sauce as the base.
Add the Poached Eggs:
- Place the poached eggs on top of the yogurt sauce in each bowl.
Drizzle with Olive Oil:
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil generously over the poached eggs and yogurt.
Sprinkle with Aleppo Pepper:
- Sprinkle Aleppo pepper (or red pepper flakes) over the top for a mild yet flavorful kick.
Serve Warm:
- Çılbır is traditionally served warm. Enjoy it immediately with a side of crusty bread or Turkish pide for dipping and sopping up the delicious flavors.
Çılbır is a delightful Turkish dish that combines the creaminess of yogurt, the richness of poached eggs, and the zing of garlic and spices. It’s a feast for the senses and a unique breakfast or brunch option that’s both comforting and exotic.