Çılbır

Introduction to Çılbır

Çılbır is a traditional Turkish dish that dates back to the Ottoman Empire. This delightful meal combines poached eggs with a hearty base of flavorful yogurt and a drizzle of spicy butter. Known for its rich and satisfying taste, Çılbır has been a cherished part of Turkish cuisine for centuries.

Ingredients

• 4 Eggs
• 2 cups Yogurt
• 2 cloves Garlic
• 4 tablespoons Butter
• 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
• Water for poaching
• 1 tablespoon Vinegar
• Salt to taste

Preparation

Before beginning the preparation of Çılbır, ensure all ingredients are fresh and ready for use. This will enhance the final flavor of the dish and make the cooking process more efficient.

Step 1: Preparing the Yogurt Sauce

Mince the garlic finely and mix it with the yogurt in a bowl. Add a pinch of salt according to your taste and mix well until creamy. Set aside to allow the flavors to marry.

Step 2: Poaching the Eggs

In a deep skillet, bring approximately 2 inches of water to a simmer over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of vinegar and a pinch of salt to the water to help coagulate the eggs. Carefully crack each egg into a small bowl and gently slide them into the simmering water. Allow the eggs to poach for about 3-4 minutes or until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny. Use a slotted spoon to remove the poached eggs and set them on a paper towel to remove excess water. For precise timing, you may want to use a cooking timer.

Step 3: Preparing the Butter Topping

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the red pepper flakes and stir, allowing the flavors to infuse for about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the butter.

Cooking Process

Step 4: Assembling the Çılbır

On a serving plate, spread the garlic yogurt evenly. Place the poached eggs on top of the yogurt. Drizzle the spicy butter with pepper flakes over the top of the eggs and yogurt to create a vibrant and appetizing dish.

Serving Suggestions

Çılbır is best enjoyed fresh and warm. Serve it with crusty bread or traditional Turkish pide to soak up the rich yogurt and spicy butter. This dish is often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or brunch but is versatile enough to serve for lunch or dinner.