Discover the rich and tantalizing flavors of Cilbir, a traditional Turkish dish that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece! Imagine perfectly poached eggs nestled atop a velvety spiced yogurt, all drizzled with fragrant butter infused with paprika and red pepper flakes. This delightful dish not only makes for a stunning brunch centerpiece but also tantalizes the taste buds with every bite. Ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Turkish
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the yogurt sauce by mixing plain yogurt with salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth and set aside at room temperature.
- Fill a wide saucepan with about 3 inches of water. Add a splash of white vinegar to help the eggs hold their shape. Bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Crack each egg into a small individual bowl or ramekin, preparing them for poaching. This helps ensure a clean and precise poaching process.
- Carefully slide each egg into the simmering water, keeping them slightly separated. Poach the eggs for 3-4 minutes until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny.
- While the eggs are poaching, melt butter in a small skillet. Add paprika and red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 seconds until the butter is infused with spices and slightly foamy.
- Spread the seasoned yogurt sauce evenly on a serving plate, creating a smooth base for the eggs.
- Remove the poached eggs from the water using a slotted spoon, gently dabbing excess water with a paper towel.
- Carefully place the poached eggs on top of the yogurt sauce.
- Drizzle the spiced butter over the eggs, allowing it to create a beautiful, colorful pattern.
- Garnish with fresh chopped dill if desired, and add a final sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately with crusty bread or toasted sourdough to soak up the delicious yogurt and egg yolk.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh eggs and high-quality yogurt. Greek yogurt can add an extra creaminess to the dish.
- Control the Poaching Temperature: Keep the water at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil, to ensure the eggs poach evenly and maintain their shape.
- Add Vinegar: A splash of white vinegar in the poaching water helps the egg whites coagulate, resulting in a neater poached egg.
- Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of paprika and red pepper flakes according to your heat preference. You can also experiment with different spices for a unique twist.
- Serve Immediately: Cilbir is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it right after preparing to savor the creamy yogurt and runny yolk while they’re at their peak.
- Pair with Bread: Crusty bread or toasted sourdough is perfect for soaking up the delicious yogurt and yolk, making each bite even more satisfying.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 330kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 425mg
