Turkish Eggs with Herb Yogurt

Turkish eggs are a simple yet elegant dish that brings together creamy yogurt, perfectly poached eggs, and a warm, spiced butter sauce. It makes an ideal breakfast or light meal when you want something comforting but still fresh and vibrant.

I first tried this after a friend served it on a lazy weekend and it instantly became a favorite for its bright tangy yogurt and rich buttery spice

Ingredients

• One cup of full fat yogurt: adds creaminess and tang pick Greek or Turkish style for best texture
• A handful each of fresh dill and fresh mint: for herbal brightness choose vibrant green leaves
• Half a garlic clove: for mild garlicky flavor crush or grate to blend smoothly
• Two fresh eggs: for perfectly poached richness buy eggs with firm whites and bright yolks
• One tablespoon vinegar: to help the eggs hold their shape during poaching use white or apple cider vinegar
• Two ounces butter: for the buttery sauce adds richness and carries the spices well
• One teaspoon chili flakes: gives a gentle heat adjust to your liking
• Half a teaspoon smoked paprika: adds smoky depth choose a good quality for more flavor
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to season and balance flavors

Instructions

Build The Herbed Yogurt Mix:

Finely chop dill and mint leaves to release their flavor Grate or crush the garlic clove and mix all into the yogurt Add salt and pepper to taste Set aside at room temperature so the flavors meld

Poach The Eggs:

Bring a deep pot of water to a boil Add the vinegar Create a gentle vortex by stirring The vinegar helps the egg whites coagulate Crack one egg into a small bowl then slide it carefully into the vortex Let cook for three minutes for a runny yolk Remove with a slotted spoon and repeat for second egg

Prepare The Spiced Butter:

Melt the butter in a small pan When it foams and bubbles add the chili flakes and smoked paprika Stir gently and cook for a few seconds until fragrant Take off heat

Assemble The Dish:

Spread a thick layer of the garlicky yogurt mix on a plate or shallow bowl Place the poached eggs gently on top Drizzle the warm spiced butter over the eggs and yogurt Finish with a sprinkle of fresh dill, mint, and a crack of black pepper

I love how the fresh herbs brighten the whole dish The first time I made it for my family it became a new Sunday morning tradition with toast on the side and endless cups of tea

Storage tips

This dish is best enjoyed fresh Since poached eggs do not reheat well avoid making in advance The herbed yogurt can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the fridge but bring it back to room temperature before assembling

Ingredient swaps

If Turkish or Greek yogurt is not available use thick strained yogurt or labneh for similar creaminess For a milder spice swap chili flakes for sweet paprika Fresh herbs can be varied with parsley or chives

Serving ideas

Serve with warm crusty bread or toasted pita for dipping The recipe also works beautifully on toasted sourdough or alongside roasted vegetables for a light meal

Turkish eggs also look stunning on the plate The contrast of white yogurt with golden yolks and red spices is so inviting It is one of those dishes where the presentation matters as much as the taste and it feels like a small celebration on your breakfast table.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I poach eggs perfectly for this dish?

Use fresh eggs and simmer water with a splash of vinegar. Create a gentle whirlpool before adding eggs to keep whites intact. Cook for about 3 minutes for runny yolks.

→ Can I substitute the herbs used in the yogurt?

Fresh dill and mint complement the flavors best, but you can experiment with parsley or chives for a different herbal note.

→ What type of yogurt works best?

A thick, creamy full-fat Turkish or Greek yogurt provides the ideal tang and texture to hold the herbs and garlic.

→ How spicy is the butter sauce, and can I adjust it?

The butter is gently spiced with chili flakes and smoked paprika, giving warmth without overwhelming heat. Adjust the chili flakes to your preferred spice level.

→ Can I prepare parts of this dish in advance?

You can mix the herb-infused yogurt ahead of time to allow flavors to meld, but poach the eggs and prepare the spiced butter just before serving.

→ Is there a substitute for smoked paprika?

Regular paprika can be used if smoked paprika is unavailable, though it alters the smoky depth slightly.