Description
Turkish Eggs, or Cilbir, is a traditional Turkish breakfast dish featuring perfectly poached eggs served over a garlicky yogurt sauce and drizzled with warm smoked paprika-infused olive oil. This dish offers a delightful balance of creamy, smoky, and fresh herb flavors, making it a unique and satisfying start to the day.
Ingredients
Scale
Eggs
- 4 large fresh eggs
Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain whole milk yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
Paprika Oil
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro or dill, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Yogurt Sauce: In a bowl, combine the plain whole milk yogurt with minced garlic and season with salt to taste. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Poach the Eggs: Bring a saucepan filled with water to a gentle simmer. Crack each egg into a small ramekin or cup to keep the yolks intact, then gently slide them one at a time into the simmering water. Poach the eggs for about 3 to 4 minutes until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny. Remove the eggs carefully and drain on paper towels if desired.
- Make the Paprika Oil: In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over low heat. Add the smoked paprika and sauté for about 1 minute until the oil becomes fragrant and infused with the smoky spice. Be sure not to burn the paprika to maintain a pleasant flavor.
- Assemble the Dish: On each serving plate, spread a generous layer of the garlic yogurt sauce as a base. Place two poached eggs on top of the yogurt. Drizzle the warm paprika-infused olive oil evenly over the eggs and yogurt.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish by sprinkling fresh cilantro or dill over the dish for a burst of herbal freshness. Serve immediately while the eggs are warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Use fresh eggs for the best poaching results and to maintain the integrity of the yolk.
- Adjust the garlic amount in the yogurt sauce to your preference; more garlic will give a stronger flavor.
- Smoked paprika adds a rich, smoky depth; if unavailable, sweet paprika can be used but will change the flavor profile.
- Serve the eggs immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm paprika oil and cool yogurt sauce.
- For a creamier yogurt sauce, use whole milk yogurt or Greek yogurt.
- Garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or dill enhances the dish’s aroma and freshness.
