Çılbır (pronounced chul-bur) is a traditional Turkish dish made with poached eggs served over a bed of garlicky yogurt, drizzled with hot spiced butter, and topped with mint. It’s simple, yet rich in flavor and texture—cool yogurt, runny yolk, warm butter, and the fresh scent of mint come together beautifully. It’s often eaten for breakfast or brunch but works any time of day. Serves 2.
Ingredients
For the Yogurt Base
1 cup thick plain yogurt (preferably Turkish or Greek-style)
1 garlic clove, finely grated or minced
Salt to taste
For the Poached Eggs
4 eggs
1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
Water, for poaching
For the Spiced Butter
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (Aleppo pepper or chili flakes)
½ teaspoon dried mint
To Serve
Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Crusty bread or pita
Instructions
1. Prepare the Yogurt
In a bowl, mix yogurt with garlic and a pinch of salt.
Whisk until smooth and creamy. Set aside at room temperature (not cold from the fridge).
2. Poach the Eggs
Bring a saucepan of water to a gentle simmer, not a boil. Add vinegar.
Crack each egg into a small bowl. Stir the water to create a gentle whirlpool, and slide the egg in.
Poach for about 3–4 minutes until the white is set but yolk is runny.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towel.
3. Make the Spiced Butter
In a small pan, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.
Once it starts to foam, add chili flakes and dried mint. Let it sizzle for 30 seconds, then remove from heat.
4. Assemble the Dish
Spread the yogurt on plates or in shallow bowls.
Place poached eggs on top.
Drizzle generously with the warm spiced butter.
Top with a few fresh mint leaves if using.
5. Serve
Serve immediately with warm crusty bread or flatbread for dipping.
Tips
Use room temperature yogurt to avoid chilling the eggs
Aleppo pepper gives a mild heat and beautiful color
Don’t skip the vinegar—it helps the egg whites hold their shape
Çılbır is creamy, comforting, and full of contrasts—warm and cool, mild and spicy, soft and crisp.
