Çılbır : Turkish Eggs, the true Turkish Delight

Çılbır is a traditional Turkish breakfast dish. It is a delicious combination of poached eggs, yoghurt and garlic that can be served with a spicy chilli sauce. This savoury dish is easy to make and is a great way to start the day. I first discovered this in a local Armenian restaurant and this is my take on the recipe (although I’m sure Armenians and Turks will say I’ve butchered it).

In this blog post, I will explore the origins of çılbır, the key ingredients and how to make it.

What is Çılbır Tarifi

Çılbır Tarifi is a traditional Turkish breakfast dish that is sure to get your morning off to a great start. It is made of poached eggs, yoghurt, garlic, melted butter or extra virgin olive oil. It is usually served with a side of fresh bread or toast. This dish is a popular choice in Turkey and is often served for breakfast or as a snack.

The name “Çılbır” is derived from the Turkish word for “egg” and it is very simple to make, taking only minutes to prepare. This dish is high in protein and low in calories, making it a healthy breakfast option to keep you full all day. It is especially good for those on a keto diet. The combination of flavours makes it a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to keep you energized throughout the day.

Why is it good for gut health

Çılbır is a traditional Turkish breakfast dish that is perfect for fuelling your day with gut-healthy ingredients. The yoghurt found in Çılbır is full of beneficial bacteria (probiotics for gut health) that help to improve digestion and the general health of the gut microbiome. Garlic and dill are two key ingredients found in Çılbır that have prebiotic properties and can help to boost gut health. Whilst the addition of a variety of fresh herbs quickly gets you up to the 30 different plants as recommended by Dr Tim Spector, to help feed your gut microbiota. Lastly, eggs are included in the Çılbır dish and provide a great source of protein which helps to nourish the gut and reduce inflammation. All these ingredients combined make Çılbır a delicious and nutritious breakfast dish that can help to improve gut health.

How is Çılbır Traditionally Served?

Çılbır is a traditional Turkish breakfast dish that is often served for special occasions. It is a creamy mix of yogurt, garlic, and egg poached in a buttery sauce. Traditionally, it is served in a bowl with the poached eggs placed on top of the yogurt. It is usually garnished with melted butter and sprinkled with dried mint and/or sumac. Accompanying the Çılbır is typically a plate of feta cheese and olives. It is often served with freshly baked pita bread for dipping. Traditionally, Çılbır is served warm, but it can also be served chilled. This makes it a great choice for a breakfast dish that can be served to guests year-round. Whether you’re looking for a unique breakfast dish for a special occasion or just want to add a little variety to your morning meal, Çılbır is sure to be a hit.

How is it different to other Turkish eggs (shakshuka)?

Çılbır is traditionally served with yoghurt, melted butter, and a sprinkle of paprika and dill. This is quite different from the other Turkish eggs, Shakshuka, which is served with a tomato-based sauce. Çılbır is a much lighter dish compared to Shakshuka and is much less spicy. The addition of yoghurt to Çılbır not only adds a pleasant creaminess to the dish but also a cooling element to help balance the spices. Çılbır can be served as a main meal, a light snack, or even a side dish.

What is yoğurtlu yumurta

Yoğurtlu yumurta is a variation of çılbır that uses a yoghurt sauce instead of the traditional one. In this version, the eggs are usually served with garlic, dill, and olive oil, as well as a spoonful of plain yogurt. Yoğurtlu yumurta is often served with toasted bread or pita, making it a great breakfast or lunch option.

Tips for Success

First, make sure you have all your ingredients on hand before you start cooking. This dish requires only a few ingredients, but it’s important that they are fresh and of good quality. The star ingredient is the egg, so make sure you use the freshest eggs you can find.

Next, make sure your pan is hot before you add the eggs. This will help them cook evenly and prevent sticking. Once the eggs are in the pan, gently stir them with a wooden spoon to ensure they don’t stick or break apart.

Is Çılbır Suitable for Vegetarians?

Çılbır is a traditional Turkish breakfast dish that is hearty and satisfying, making it an ideal meal for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. It’s often enjoyed with a variety of toppings, such as herbs and spices like parsley, dill, garlic, and cumin, for added flavour.

The dish itself consists of poached eggs served in a savoury yogurt sauce. It is usually served with some kind of bread, such as pide or simit, and a side of vegetables, such as tomatoes or cucumbers. However I find it works equally as well with freshly baked sourdough.

This breakfast dish is a popular option in Turkish restaurants and cafes, but it can also easily be made at home. All that’s needed is some yogurt, eggs, and the toppings of your choice. It’s a great way to start the day and is sure to keep you full until lunchtime.

My wife who is a massive egg fan loves this dish and I hope do too. Alternatively, if you fancy other ways to get bacteria turbocharged plants into your diet, then consider setting up a vegetable fermenter.

So is Cilbir Healthy?

So after seeing the recipe and some of the benefits for gut health, on to the question, ‘is cilbir healthy’?

This savoury breakfast sensation, a staple of the Mediterranean diet, has an incredible mix of flavours with poached eggs nested in a bed of garlicky yogurt and topped off with warm olive oil. Delicious!

Now, this dish isn’t just a treat for the palate – it’s got some serious nutritional power too. And yes, Cilbir is healthy! Those perfectly poached eggs? Packed with high-quality protein. The Greek yogurt? Rich in calcium and gut-friendly probiotics. Garlic adds some serious antioxidant power, while olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

But like any dish, cilbir’s healthiness can also depend on your individual dietary needs. For example, this dish is usually enjoyed with some rustic bread – great for scooping up every last delicious bit, but that adds extra calories and carbs to consider.

What about sodium? Well, one serving of cilbir can have a moderate amount of sodium, so if you’re on a low-sodium diet, that’s something to keep in mind.

Çılbır is a traditional Turkish breakfast dish. It is a delicious combination of poached eggs, yoghurt and garlic that can be served with a spicy chilli sauce. This savoury dish is easy to make and is a great way to start the day. I first discovered this in a local Armenian restaurant and this is my take on the recipe (although I’m sure Armenians and Turks will say I’ve butchered it).

In this blog post, I will explore the origins of çılbır, the key ingredients and how to make it.

What is Çılbır Tarifi

Çılbır Tarifi is a traditional Turkish breakfast dish that is sure to get your morning off to a great start. It is made of poached eggs, yoghurt, garlic, melted butter or extra virgin olive oil. It is usually served with a side of fresh bread or toast. This dish is a popular choice in Turkey and is often served for breakfast or as a snack.

The name “Çılbır” is derived from the Turkish word for “egg” and it is very simple to make, taking only minutes to prepare. This dish is high in protein and low in calories, making it a healthy breakfast option to keep you full all day. It is especially good for those on a keto diet. The combination of flavours makes it a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to keep you energized throughout the day.

Why is it good for gut health

Çılbır is a traditional Turkish breakfast dish that is perfect for fuelling your day with gut-healthy ingredients. The yoghurt found in Çılbır is full of beneficial bacteria (probiotics for gut health) that help to improve digestion and the general health of the gut microbiome. Garlic and dill are two key ingredients found in Çılbır that have prebiotic properties and can help to boost gut health. Whilst the addition of a variety of fresh herbs quickly gets you up to the 30 different plants as recommended by Dr Tim Spector, to help feed your gut microbiota. Lastly, eggs are included in the Çılbır dish and provide a great source of protein which helps to nourish the gut and reduce inflammation. All these ingredients combined make Çılbır a delicious and nutritious breakfast dish that can help to improve gut health.

How is Çılbır Traditionally Served?

Çılbır is a traditional Turkish breakfast dish that is often served for special occasions. It is a creamy mix of yogurt, garlic, and egg poached in a buttery sauce. Traditionally, it is served in a bowl with the poached eggs placed on top of the yogurt. It is usually garnished with melted butter and sprinkled with dried mint and/or sumac. Accompanying the Çılbır is typically a plate of feta cheese and olives. It is often served with freshly baked pita bread for dipping. Traditionally, Çılbır is served warm, but it can also be served chilled. This makes it a great choice for a breakfast dish that can be served to guests year-round. Whether you’re looking for a unique breakfast dish for a special occasion or just want to add a little variety to your morning meal, Çılbır is sure to be a hit.

How is it different to other Turkish eggs (shakshuka)?

Çılbır is traditionally served with yoghurt, melted butter, and a sprinkle of paprika and dill. This is quite different from the other Turkish eggs, Shakshuka, which is served with a tomato-based sauce. Çılbır is a much lighter dish compared to Shakshuka and is much less spicy. The addition of yoghurt to Çılbır not only adds a pleasant creaminess to the dish but also a cooling element to help balance the spices. Çılbır can be served as a main meal, a light snack, or even a side dish.

What is yoğurtlu yumurta

Yoğurtlu yumurta is a variation of çılbır that uses a yoghurt sauce instead of the traditional one. In this version, the eggs are usually served with garlic, dill, and olive oil, as well as a spoonful of plain yogurt. Yoğurtlu yumurta is often served with toasted bread or pita, making it a great breakfast or lunch option.

Tips for Success

First, make sure you have all your ingredients on hand before you start cooking. This dish requires only a few ingredients, but it’s important that they are fresh and of good quality. The star ingredient is the egg, so make sure you use the freshest eggs you can find.

Next, make sure your pan is hot before you add the eggs. This will help them cook evenly and prevent sticking. Once the eggs are in the pan, gently stir them with a wooden spoon to ensure they don’t stick or break apart.

Is Çılbır Suitable for Vegetarians?

Çılbır is a traditional Turkish breakfast dish that is hearty and satisfying, making it an ideal meal for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. It’s often enjoyed with a variety of toppings, such as herbs and spices like parsley, dill, garlic, and cumin, for added flavour.

The dish itself consists of poached eggs served in a savoury yogurt sauce. It is usually served with some kind of bread, such as pide or simit, and a side of vegetables, such as tomatoes or cucumbers. However I find it works equally as well with freshly baked sourdough.

This breakfast dish is a popular option in Turkish restaurants and cafes, but it can also easily be made at home. All that’s needed is some yogurt, eggs, and the toppings of your choice. It’s a great way to start the day and is sure to keep you full until lunchtime.

My wife who is a massive egg fan loves this dish and I hope do too. Alternatively, if you fancy other ways to get bacteria turbocharged plants into your diet, then consider setting up a vegetable fermenter.

So is Cilbir Healthy?

So after seeing the recipe and some of the benefits for gut health, on to the question, ‘is cilbir healthy’?

This savoury breakfast sensation, a staple of the Mediterranean diet, has an incredible mix of flavours with poached eggs nested in a bed of garlicky yogurt and topped off with warm olive oil. Delicious!

Now, this dish isn’t just a treat for the palate – it’s got some serious nutritional power too. And yes, Cilbir is healthy! Those perfectly poached eggs? Packed with high-quality protein. The Greek yogurt? Rich in calcium and gut-friendly probiotics. Garlic adds some serious antioxidant power, while olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

But like any dish, cilbir’s healthiness can also depend on your individual dietary needs. For example, this dish is usually enjoyed with some rustic bread – great for scooping up every last delicious bit, but that adds extra calories and carbs to consider.

What about sodium? Well, one serving of cilbir can have a moderate amount of sodium, so if you’re on a low-sodium diet, that’s something to keep in mind.

The Gut Health Benefits of Çılbır

The ingredients in cilbir make it an ideal gut-healthy breakfast. The live cultures in yogurt promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in your gut microbiome. Garlic contains prebiotics that act as fuel for the probiotics. Eggs provide protein to nourish the gut lining and reduce inflammation. Olive oil contains healthy fats that also calm inflammation. Poaching the eggs is the best cooking method, as it preserves more nutrients compared to frying or scrambling. One serving of Çılbır provides around 15-20% of your recommended daily protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients.

Making Vegetarian Çılbır

Cilbir can easily be made vegetarian by using plant-based yogurt and replacing the eggs with fried tofu, chickpeas, white beans, or sautéed mushrooms. The yogurt, garlic, herbs, olive oil, and bread or veggies stay the same. Just top your veggie cilbir with your egg substitute of choice. This makes the dish accessible for vegans too. The fried or sautéed proteins and mushrooms can provide a similar texture to poached eggs.

So go ahead and get poaching!

Now that you’re all up to speed on cilbir, I hope you’re excited to try this delicious dish for yourself. Whether you’re making it for a hearty breakfast or a light lunch, remember that it’s best served fresh and enjoyed immediately. So, gather your ingredients, get that water boiling, and prepare to feast on one of Turkey’s most beloved dishes, cilbir! And don’t forget, leftovers are not recommended – so make sure you make just enough for everyone to enjoy in one sitting.

Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions About Çılbır

How should I store leftovers properly?

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently before serving. The eggs can overcook and become rubbery if reheated carelessly.

What are some common substitutions or variations?

• Use Greek or Turkish yogurt for a thicker texture.
• Add different fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or chives.
• Top with crumbled feta cheese and roasted red peppers.
• Season with chilli flakes or cayenne for a spicy kick.
• Add sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, or greens.
• Drizzle with zhoug or harissa sauce for more flair.
• Serve with crusty bread, pita chips, or sautéed potatoes on the side.

Is Çılbır gluten-free?

Yes, traditional Çılbır is gluten-free. Just be sure to use gluten-free bread or wraps if serving those on the side.

Can I make it vegan?

Absolutely! Use plant-based yogurt, swap the eggs for fried tofu or chickpeas, and replace the butter with olive oil.

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