
Recipe Story
origins & traditionsCilbir is an ancient Ottoman breakfast delicacy that transforms simple ingredients into a sophisticated dish worthy of sultans. This traditional recipe combines perfectly poached eggs with cool, tangy yogurt infused with garlic, then crowned with aromatic melted butter infused with paprika and cayenne. The contrast between warm eggs, cool yogurt, and hot spiced butter creates an unforgettable sensory experience. Popular throughout Turkey and gaining international acclaim, cilbir represents the perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and vibrant flavors. The garlic yogurt base provides probiotic benefits while the runny yolk creates a natural sauce that ties all elements together. Best enjoyed with crusty bread for dipping, this dish is both nourishing and indulgent, offering a restaurant-quality breakfast that can be prepared in under 20 minutes.
Instructions
step by stepPrepare the garlic yogurt base by mixing greek yogurt with minced garlic and salt in a bowl until smooth and well combined. Set aside at room temperature to allow flavors to meld.
Fill a medium saucepan with water and add white vinegar. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat - water should have small bubbles but not be at a rolling boil.
While water heats, melt butter in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add paprika and cayenne pepper, swirling to infuse the butter with color and spice. Remove from heat and keep warm.
Crack each egg into a small ramekin. Create a gentle whirlpool in the simmering water using a wooden spoon, then carefully slide one egg into the center. Repeat with remaining eggs, spacing them apart.
Poach eggs for 3-4 minutes until whites are set but yolks remain runny. Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove eggs, allowing excess water to drain.
To serve, divide garlic yogurt between two shallow bowls, spreading it in an even layer. Place poached eggs on top of yogurt. Drizzle the spiced butter over the eggs and yogurt.
Garnish with additional paprika, black pepper, and fresh dill or parsley. Serve immediately with toasted bread on the side for dipping.
Cilbir - Poached Eggs with Garlicky Yogurt
A luxurious breakfast featuring perfectly poached eggs nestled on creamy garlic yogurt, drizzled with spiced butter and finished with paprika and fresh herbs for an authentic Anatolian morning feast.
Ingredients
Main
- 4 pieces Eggs, fresh, at room temperature
- 1 cups Greek Yogurt, full-fat, at room temperature
- 2 cloves Garlic, finely minced or pressed
Spiced Butter
- 3 tablespoons Butter, unsalted
- 1 teaspoons Paprika, sweet or smoked
- 1/4 teaspoons Cayenne, ground (optional)
Poaching Liquid
- 1 tablespoons Vinegar White, distilled
Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoons Salt, fine sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoons Black Pepper, freshly ground
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons Dill, fresh, chopped (optional)
Chef Tips
expert adviceVariations & Substitutions
make it your ownServing & Pairings
what goes wellStorage & Reheating
keeping it freshGarlic yogurt can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before serving. Poached eggs are best consumed immediately and do not store well. If you must store assembled dish, refrigerate for up to 4 hours, though texture and temperature contrast will be compromised.
Cilbir is not ideal for reheating as the poached eggs will overcook and the yogurt may separate. If necessary, reheat only the spiced butter in a small pan and prepare fresh poached eggs. Use refrigerated garlic yogurt at room temperature for best results.