Turkish Çilbir. The Perfect Start To The Day
This quick and simple breakfast makes a delicious start to your day or a satisfying lunch. Inspired by traditional Turkish çılbır — poached eggs over garlicky yogurt — this version adds bright citrus notes and a smoky, spicy butter to lift the flavor. It’s easy to prepare and impressive to serve. Enjoy!
Turkish Çilbir
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 – Whole Bulb Garlic
- 2 ½ Tbsp (50g) – Natural Greek Yogurt
- 1 – Garlic Clove, Minced
- ¼ – Lemon, Zested
- ¼ – Lime, Zest
- ¼ – Lemon, Juiced
- 3 Tbsp (42g) – Butter
- 1 ½ tsp (4g) – Smoked Paprika
- ½ (2g) – Dried Chilli Flakes
- 3 tsp (15ml) – White Vinegar
- 2-4 – Free Range Eggs
- 1 ½ tsp (7.5ml) – Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Optional)
- Brioche Bread Or Bread Of Choice, Lightly Toasted
- Seasoning To Taste
- Dill To Garnish
- Parsley To Garnish
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the whole garlic bulb on a sheet of aluminum foil, drizzle with oil, wrap into a parcel, and roast for about 45 minutes until the cloves are soft. Remove and let cool slightly.
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Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small pan over medium heat. Stir in the smoked paprika, chili flakes and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant, then remove from the heat and set aside.
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Make the citrus yogurt sauce by combining Greek yogurt, the minced garlic, lemon and lime zest, lemon juice and seasoning in a bowl. Mix until smooth and taste for balance.
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Bring a saucepan of water to a gentle boil, add the white vinegar, then lower the heat to maintain a simmer. Poach the eggs for about 2 1/2 minutes for soft yolks, or cook to your preferred doneness. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
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Toast the bread and spread it with roasted garlic and the citrus yogurt. Top with poached eggs, then drizzle the smoked paprika and chili butter over the eggs. Finish with fresh dill, parsley and cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Guide
The nutrition guide above is an estimate for a single serving and should be used as a general reference.
Recipe Notes
Turkish Çilbir Storage & Reheating Instructions
This dish is best served fresh. Storing and reheating will change the texture: the bread can become soggy and the poached eggs may dry out. If necessary, store components separately (yogurt sauce refrigerated, butter in a sealed container) and reheat gently before assembling.
Watch How To Make The Recipe
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