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A plate of Turkish poached eggs (Çılbır) with creamy yogurt, runny eggs, and spiced butter, served with toasted crusty bread.

Turkish Poached Eggs (Çılbır)

Anamaria Negoita
This classic Turkish breakfast dish, known as Çılbır, combines silky poached eggs with garlicky Greek yogurt and a drizzle of warm spiced butter infused with chili and paprika. It’s simple, comforting, and full of bold Mediterranean flavor—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy savory snack.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine Mediterranean, Turkish
Servings 1 Serving
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients
  

For the Yogurt Base:

  • 4 tbsp full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 1 garlic clove finely minced
  • Zest of ½ lemon
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Poached Eggs:

  • 2 fresh eggs
  • A splash of white vinegar for the poaching water

For the Spiced Butter:

  • 50g (about 3.5 tablespoons) unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp chili flakes adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika sweet or smoked—your choice

To Serve:

  • Crusty toasted bread or warm pita for dipping
  • Extra fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Yogurt Base: In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Set aside at room temperature.
  • Poach the Eggs: Crack each egg into a fine mesh sieve to drain excess whites, then transfer to a small bowl. Bring a pot of water to a gentle simmer and add a splash of vinegar. Stir to create a whirlpool, then gently slide in the eggs one at a time. Poach for 3 minutes for runny yolks. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  • Make the Spiced Butter: In a small pan over low heat, melt the butter with olive oil. Add chili flakes and paprika. Let it gently sizzle for 1–2 minutes until aromatic. Do not burn.
  • Assemble the Dish: Spoon the yogurt onto a serving plate and create a shallow well. Place the poached eggs on top and drizzle with the warm spiced butter. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
  • Serve Immediately: Enjoy with crusty toasted bread for scooping up all the creamy, spicy goodness.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 14gFat: 26gCholesterol: 190mgSodium: 180mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 1.5mg
Keyword Çılbır, Çılbır recipe, Easy Mediterranean recipes, Poached eggs with yogurt, Turkish egg dish, Turkish poached eggs
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