Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I sat in a little café in Istanbul, the aroma of rich spices and creamy yogurt wafted through the air, pulling me into a culinary daydream. That’s where I first discovered the magic of Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt and Butter Sauce, also known as Çılbır—a simple yet luxurious savory breakfast that transforms the way we enjoy poached eggs. With a quick prep time and an elegant presentation, this dish is perfect for both rushing on weekdays and impressing guests at brunch gatherings. Not to mention, it pairs beautifully with a warm, crusty bread for indulgent dipping! Are you ready to bring a taste of Turkey to your table? Why Is This Recipe Somewhat Unique? Delightfully Versatile: This Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce dish easily adapts to your taste, allowing you to swap ingredients like Greek yogurt for labneh or add sautéed spinach. Gourmet Appeal: A luxurious presentation with rich flavors makes it perfect for impressing brunch guests, while still being an easy weekday breakfast. Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein from poached eggs and healthy fats from yogurt, it’ll fuel your day without the guilt of fast food. Quick & Simple: In just a few steps, you can create a stunning dish that transforms your breakfast routine. Cultural Experience: Capture the essence of traditional Turkish cuisine right in your kitchen, connecting you to flavors that evoke travel and discovery. Try serving these eggs alongside Garlic Butter Steak for a divine brunch! Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce Ingredients For the Herbed Yogurt • Greek Yogurt – Provides creaminess and tang; substitute with labneh for a thicker texture. • Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and enhances flavor; a mild olive oil can also work well. • Fresh Lemon Juice – Offers acidity that balances the dish; lime juice is a perfect alternative. • Garlic – Imparts flavor to the yogurt; use roasted garlic for a mellower taste. • Fresh Dill – Adds a fresh herbal note; parsley or cilantro can be used instead. • Fresh Mint – Provides a refreshing layer; basil makes a great substitute if mint is unavailable. • Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors; table salt works too, just adjust the amount. For the Poached Eggs • Large Eggs – The star of the dish, offering protein and texture; organic or free-range eggs are recommended. • Distilled White Vinegar – Aids in poaching eggs for tidy results; apple cider vinegar can be substituted. For Serving • Pita or Crusty Bread – Essential for scooping; consider gluten-free options if needed. • Flaky Sea Salt – For finishing touches; any coarse salt will work perfectly. For the Spiced Butter Sauce • Unsalted Butter – Forms the base of the sauce; ghee can also lend a unique flavor. • Aleppo Pepper – Adds mild heat and smokiness; red pepper flakes or paprika can replace it for different flavor notes. This delightful Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce will bring a touch of gourmet elegance to your breakfast table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce Step 1: Prepare the Herbed Yogurt In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, grated garlic, chopped dill, and a pinch of kosher salt until silky smooth. This herbed yogurt will create a luscious base for your dish. Set it aside for now, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as you prepare the rest of the Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce. Step 2: Poach the Eggs In a large saucepan, fill it with water and add a splash of distilled white vinegar, bringing it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Crack each large egg into a ramekin, then gently slide them into the simmering water one at a time. Cook the eggs for about 3 minutes until the whites are set while the yolks remain runny—perfectly soft and delicious for this dish. Step 3: Make the Spiced Butter Sauce In a small saucepan, melt unsalted butter over low heat, allowing it to froth slightly. Once melted, sprinkle in the Aleppo pepper and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to let the butter brown. This rich, spiced butter sauce will elevate the Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce with its aromatic aroma and vibrant color. Step 4: Assemble the Dish Now, grab shallow bowls and spread a generous layer of the herbed yogurt in each. Carefully place a poached egg on top of the yogurt, letting the warm yolk rest on the creamy base. Drizzle the warm spiced butter sauce generously over the eggs, allowing the rich yellow sauce to seep into the yogurt and create a beautiful presentation. Step 5: Garnish and Serve Finish your Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce by adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and some extra fresh herbs like dill or mint for a vibrant touch. Serve immediately alongside crusty bread or pita, perfect for scooping up every bit of this delicious meal. Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures that come together in this elegant dish! How to Store and Freeze Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce Fridge: Store any leftover herbed yogurt in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for quick breakfasts or for adding to salads later! Poached Eggs: If you have leftover poached eggs, keep them in cold water in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in hot water to serve. Freezer: For best results, do not freeze the entire dish, as the yogurt and poached eggs do not freeze well. However, you can freeze the herbed yogurt for up to 3 months in a sealed container, thawing it in the fridge overnight when ready to use. Reheating: Gently reheat the components separately to maintain their original textures and flavors. Serve on freshly warmed bread for the best experience with your Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce. Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt Variations Feel free to customize your Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt and Butter Sauce, making it your own delicious creation! Dairy-Free: Use coconut yogurt or another plant-based yogurt to create a creamy texture without dairy. Extra Herbs: Boost the flavor by adding fresh basil or tarragon to the herbed yogurt for a unique twist. Veggie Lover: Toss in sautéed spinach or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and vibrant color on your plate. Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter sauce for a fiery upgrade. Cheesy Delight: Mix in crumbled feta or goat cheese with the yogurt for a tangy burst and richer flavor. Bread Alternatives: Enjoy with gluten-free pita or instead, serve over quinoa for a grain-based breakfast option. Smoky Flavors: Swap Aleppo pepper with smoked paprika for an intriguing depth of flavor that adds warmth to each bite. Citrus Zing: Enhance the yogurt with zest from an orange or lime for a refreshing burst that brightens up the dish. These variations invite creativity in the kitchen, whether you’re trying to cater to dietary preferences or just want to reinvent a classic for your family. Enjoy every comforting spoonful! Make Ahead Options Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce are fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the herbed yogurt up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and creamy. The poached eggs can also be made ahead and stored in cold water for up to 1 day; when ready to serve, simply reheat them gently in simmering water for a couple of minutes to restore their perfect texture. Assembling your Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce just before serving ensures a delightful, restaurant-quality experience with minimal effort, making your busy mornings so much easier! Expert Tips for Turkish Eggs Poached Perfection: Use a gentle simmer and add vinegar to the water; this keeps the egg whites intact while cooking and prevents overcooking. Ingredient Variations: Feel free to customize your herbed yogurt; labneh or goat cheese can provide unique textures and flavors to the Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce. Prep Ahead: Prepare the herbed yogurt a day in advance; it allows the flavors to blend beautifully and saves time on busy mornings. Shallow Bowls: Use shallow bowls for serving; this not only looks elegant but makes it easier to scoop up all the delicious components of the dish. Seasoning Wisely: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving; a little more salt or lemon juice can enhance the overall flavor of your Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce! What to Serve with Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce? Indulging in Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt and Butter Sauce is a culinary embrace, and the right companion dishes can create a harmonious brunch experience. Crusty Bread: The perfect vessel for scooping up rich yogurt and spicy butter, adding delightful texture to each bite. Sautéed Spinach: A warm, earthy contrast to the creamy eggs, brightening the plate and enhancing the overall flavor profile. Fresh Tomato Salad: Juicy tomatoes tossed with olive oil and herbs bring freshness and acidity, balancing the richness of the dish beautifully. Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Golden, crunchy potatoes add a satisfying crunch, enhancing each mouthful with flavor and texture. Zesty Citrus Salad: A bright mix of oranges and grapefruits dressed with honey and mint awakens your palate, providing a refreshing complement. Turkish Tea: The aromatic warmth of spiced tea offers a soothing finish, rounding out the meal with a comforting embrace. Baklava: For a sweet touch, this honeyed pastry introduces a delightful contrast of flavors, perfect for ending a luxurious brunch on a high note. Bringing these elements together not only elevates your dining experience but also celebrates the deliciousness of Turkish cuisine! Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best ingredients for this recipe? Absolutely! For this dish, opt for high-quality Greek yogurt that’s thick and creamy, as it’s the base of the dish. When selecting eggs, consider organic or free-range for their superior flavor. Fresh herbs like dill and mint should be vibrant and fragrant—look for bright green leaves and avoid any that show dark spots or wilting. How should I store leftovers from Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce? The leftover herbed yogurt can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ready to brighten your morning or to enhance a salad. For poached eggs, keep them in cold water in a sealed container for up to 1 day. A quick gentle reheat in hot water before serving will keep them lovely and tender! Can I freeze any part of this recipe? You can indeed! While I don’t recommend freezing the entire dish due to the yogurt’s and poached eggs’ textures after thawing, the herbed yogurt can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just transfer it to a sealed container, ensuring it’s airtight. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the yogurt overnight in the refrigerator for best results. I’m having issues with my poached eggs; any tips? Very! For beautifully poached eggs, keep the water at a gentle simmer—too much boiling can break the eggs apart. Adding a splash of distilled white vinegar helps the egg whites stay together. If the eggs don’t stay intact when you slide them into the water, you can create a gentle whirlpool to help them hold their shape! Practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if the first few aren’t flawless. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, you might want to replace the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative. There are also gluten-free bread options available to pair with this dish if that’s a concern. Always double-check ingredient labels if you’re unsure, especially for vinegar and packaged spices to ensure they meet dietary needs. Can I customize the herbs in the yogurt mixture? The more the merrier! Feel free to switch out the dill and mint for your favorite herbs, like parsley or cilantro, to suit your taste. I often include whatever fresh herbs I have on hand, making this dish wonderfully adaptable. Enjoy the freedom to experiment—cooking should be fun and personal! Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce Bliss Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt & Butter Sauce is a luxurious savory breakfast, combining poached eggs, herbed yogurt, and spiced butter sauce for an indulgent experience. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 2 servingsCourse: BreakfastCuisine: TurkishCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Herbed Yogurt1 cup Greek Yogurt Can substitute with labneh2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Mild olive oil can also work1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice Lime juice is a good alternative1 clove Garlic Use roasted garlic for a mellower taste1 tablespoon Fresh Dill Parsley or cilantro can be used1 tablespoon Fresh Mint Basil makes a great substitute1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Table salt can be usedFor the Poached Eggs4 large Large Eggs Organic or free-range eggs recommended1 tablespoon Distilled White Vinegar Apple cider vinegar can be substitutedFor Serving2 pieces Pita or Crusty Bread Consider gluten-free optionsto taste Flaky Sea Salt Any coarse salt worksFor the Spiced Butter Sauce4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Ghee can lend a unique flavor1 teaspoon Aleppo Pepper Can replace with red pepper flakes or paprika Equipment medium bowllarge saucepanSmall saucepanramekinShallow Bowls Method Preparation StepsIn a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, grated garlic, chopped dill, and a pinch of kosher salt until silky smooth.In a large saucepan, fill it with water and add a splash of distilled white vinegar, bringing it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.Crack each large egg into a ramekin, then gently slide them into the simmering water one at a time. Cook the eggs for about 3 minutes until the whites are set while the yolks remain runny.In a small saucepan, melt unsalted butter over low heat, allowing it to froth slightly. Once melted, sprinkle in the Aleppo pepper and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.Spread a generous layer of the herbed yogurt in each shallow bowl. Carefully place a poached egg on top of the yogurt.Drizzle the warm spiced butter sauce generously over the eggs and finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and some extra fresh herbs. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 16gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 370mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesFor the best flavor and presentation, serve with crusty bread for scooping up the dish. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!