Cilbir – Turkish eggs

As the winter chill settles in and the sun is shy to shine bright, there’s nothing quite like cozying up with a warm, comforting meal. Enter “Cilbir,” a Turkish dish that perfectly embodies the essence of winter comfort food. With its creamy yogurt, runny poached eggs, and a drizzle of melted butter, Cilbir is a dish that can warm your heart and soul on a cold winter weekend.

Cilbir, pronounced as “chil-beer,” is a traditional Turkish dish that has been enjoyed for centuries.

Herb yogurt topped with perfectly poached eggs and a flavorful buttery drizzle. Each bite combines the richness of the eggs, the tanginess of the yogurt, and the warmth of the paprika-infused butter. The fresh garlic adds a delightful kick, while the lemon juice brightens up the dish.

Cilbir is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. It’s a dish that can make you feel the winter weekend bliss on a plate. Whether you savor it for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner, Cilbir is a heartwarming reminder of the simple pleasures of good food during the colder months.

So, next time you’re looking for a comforting winter meal that’s both easy to make and full of flavor, give Cilbir a try. You’ll discover why this Turkish delight has captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers worldwide. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

• Greek yogurt or strained yogurt 1 cup
• Fresh eggs 2-3
• Fresh garlic cloves 2-3
• Fresh lemon juice 1 tbsp
• Butter 2 tbsp
• Paprika (smoked or sweet, depending on your preference) ½ tsp
• Dill ¼ cup
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)
• Olive oil 2 tbsp
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

1. Start by bringing a pot of water to a gentle simmer. Add a splash of vinegar to the simmering water; this will help the poached eggs hold their shape.
2. While the water is heating, prepare your yogurt mixture. In a bowl, mix the yogurt with minced garlic and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
3. Season it with salt to taste and set it aside. Add chopped dill and lemon zest for a fresh vibrant feel. In a separate pan, pour a little oil and melt some butter over low heat. Add the paprika, and chilli flakes and let it infuse into the butter.
4. This paprika-infused butter will be the finishing touch for your Cilbir. Carefully crack the fresh eggs into a small bowl, ensuring the yolks remain intact.
5. Gently slide the eggs into the simmering water and poach them until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny about 3-4 minutes.
6. While the eggs are poaching, spread the seasoned yogurt mixture onto a plate. Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the poached eggs from the water, allowing excess water to drain maybe on a kitchen tissue, and place them on top of the yogurt.
7. Drizzle the paprika-infused butter over the poached eggs and yogurt. Garnish with fresh dill and mint leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper.