If you have been searching for a breakfast that feels both comforting and exciting, the Turkish Eggs with Herbed Yogurt, Spiced Butter, and Spicy Chimichurri Recipe is exactly what your mornings have been missing. This dish marries creamy, garlicky yogurt topped with lush, buttery spices and zesty, vibrant chimichurri alongside perfectly poached eggs. Every bite is a harmony of textures and flavors that will quickly become a beloved classic in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is a breeze because they are simple yet completely essential to achieving the perfect balance we aim for. Each element shines through, layering taste, texture, and color to create a stunning plate.
- Greek yogurt: Use full-fat for richness and a creamy base that holds up under the toppings.
- Fresh dill: Adds bright, herbaceous notes that elevate the yogurt’s flavor.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the yogurt and chimichurri with a savory punch.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all flavors without overwhelming, seasoning each component just right.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and infused with spices, it’s the silky, golden finish that dazzles.
- Smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smoky warmth that deepens the spiced butter’s profile.
- Turmeric: Gives a beautiful, earthy hue and adds mild depth to the butter.
- Shallot: Offers a mild sweetness and crunch to the chimichurri.
- Fresh parsley and mint: Bright, fresh, and fragrant herbs that are vital to the chimichurri’s lively burst.
- Jalapeño: Adds just the right amount of heat without overpowering the dish.
- Lemon juice and zest: Brings acidity and brightness, lifting the chimichurri with freshness.
- Extra virgin olive oil: The base for chimichurri, bringing richness and smooth texture.
- Large eggs: Poached to silky perfection for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- White vinegar: Helps the poached eggs hold their shape beautifully.
How to Make Turkish Eggs with Herbed Yogurt, Spiced Butter, and Spicy Chimichurri Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Herbed Yogurt
In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with finely chopped dill, minced garlic, and kosher salt. Stir until well blended. This mixture is your creamy, savory bed for the eggs, so taste and adjust the salt to ensure it is flavorful without being overpowering.
Step 2: Make the Spiced Butter
Gently melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, whisk in smoked paprika and turmeric for that gorgeous golden color and smoky warmth. Keep the heat low to avoid burning the spices. The melted spiced butter will be drizzled over the eggs last to add a luxurious finishing touch.
Step 3: Whip up the Spicy Chimichurri
In a small bowl, combine finely chopped shallot, parsley, mint, and jalapeño. Add minced garlic, lemon juice and zest, kosher salt, and then slowly whisk in the extra virgin olive oil until everything is emulsified. The chimichurri brings a fresh, herbaceous, and slightly spicy bite to balance the richness of the yogurt and butter beautifully.
Step 4: Poach the Eggs
Fill a wide skillet or saucepan with water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add white vinegar to the water, which helps the egg whites stay intact. Crack each egg into a small bowl, then gently slip them one at a time into the simmering water. Poach for 3-4 minutes until the whites are set but the yolks remain perfectly runny. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Assemble the Turkish Eggs
Spread the herbed yogurt evenly onto serving plates or a large platter. Arrange the poached eggs on top, then generously drizzle with the warm spiced butter. Finally, spoon the spicy chimichurri over everything. The combination of creamy, buttery, and zesty layers creates a stunning dish that delights all senses.
How to Serve Turkish Eggs with Herbed Yogurt, Spiced Butter, and Spicy Chimichurri Recipe
Garnishes
Consider sprinkling extra fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or mint for added freshness and color. A few chili flakes or a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil can enhance the dish’s appeal and flavor. Toasted sesame seeds or crushed pistachios make an unexpected crunchy contrast.
Side Dishes
Serve this dish alongside warm, crusty bread or freshly baked pita to scoop up all the saucy goodness. A simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of olives complements the flavors wonderfully without overshadowing the Turkish Eggs with Herbed Yogurt, Spiced Butter, and Spicy Chimichurri Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch spread, serve this dish on a large wooden board with small bowls of each component, inviting your guests to build their own. Layering the yogurt, eggs, and toppings in a beautiful shallow bowl also works for a rustic, inviting presentation. Adding edible flowers can elevate the visual appeal for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover herbed yogurt and chimichurri in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the spiced butter in a small container at room temperature or refrigerated if your kitchen is warm. Poached eggs are best eaten fresh but can be refrigerated for up to a day if necessary.
Freezing
This dish doesn’t freeze well once assembled, but you can freeze portions of the herbed yogurt and chimichurri separately for up to one month. Reheat gently and stir well before using, but fresh preparation of poached eggs is always recommended.
Reheating
Reheat the spiced butter gently in a small pan or microwave until warm. The yogurt is best served cold or room temperature, so avoid reheating it. For leftover eggs, reheat them gently in warm water for a minute to avoid toughening the delicate whites and yolks.
FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt is preferred because it is thicker and creamier, which holds up well under the toppings. Regular yogurt tends to be more watery and may not provide the same luxurious texture.
How spicy is the chimichurri in this recipe?
The chimichurri has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to the jalapeño. You can adjust the amount or omit the jalapeño if you want it milder or add more for extra heat.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
The eggs and butter are animal products that define this dish’s character, but you could experiment with tofu scramble or vegan butter alternatives. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will differ from the original Turkish Eggs with Herbed Yogurt, Spiced Butter, and Spicy Chimichurri Recipe.
What’s the best way to poach eggs for this recipe?
Simmer water gently rather than boiling, and add vinegar to help the whites coagulate quickly. Crack eggs into a small cup before slipping them in for better control. Poach for about 3-4 minutes for a runny yolk.
Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time for a brunch party?
Absolutely! Prepare the herbed yogurt, chimichurri, and spiced butter up to a day in advance. Poach the eggs just before serving for the best texture. This saves time and lets you enjoy your guests without kitchen stress.
Final Thoughts
Give this Turkish Eggs with Herbed Yogurt, Spiced Butter, and Spicy Chimichurri Recipe a go, and you’ll discover a new favorite that dazzles the palate with every bite. It’s a dish packed with fresh flavor and inviting textures that suits breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
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Turkish Eggs with Herbed Yogurt, Spiced Butter, and Spicy Chimichurri Recipe
Turkish Eggs is a vibrant and flavorful breakfast dish featuring perfectly poached eggs served atop a creamy herbed Greek yogurt, drizzled with a fragrant spiced butter, and complemented by a zesty and spicy chimichurri sauce. This balanced combination offers a delightful mix of creamy, tangy, and spicy notes, making it a perfect choice to start the day or serve as a light brunch.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
Ingredients
Herbed Greek Yogurt
- 1 ½ cups Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons dill, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or more to taste
Spiced Butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
Spicy Chimichurri
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- ¼ cup parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ cup mint, finely chopped
- ½ small jalapeño, deseeded and finely chopped
- ½ lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, or more to taste
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
Poached Eggs
- 6 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare the Herbed Greek Yogurt: In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with finely chopped dill, minced garlic, and kosher salt. Mix thoroughly until smooth and evenly combined. Adjust seasoning to taste and set aside.
- Make the Spiced Butter: Melt the unsalted butter in a small pan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the smoked paprika and turmeric. Keep warm on very low heat to allow the spices to infuse and prevent the butter from browning.
- Prepare the Spicy Chimichurri: In a medium bowl, mix together the finely chopped shallot, parsley, mint, and jalapeño. Add the lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, kosher salt, and pour in the extra virgin olive oil. Stir well to combine and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Poach the Eggs: Fill a wide pan with water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the white vinegar to the water, which helps the egg whites coagulate. Crack each egg into a small bowl, then gently slide it into the simmering water, one at a time. Poach the eggs for about 3-4 minutes, or until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny. Remove the eggs with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Assemble the Turkish Eggs: Spread a layer of the herbed Greek yogurt evenly across serving plates. Place two poached eggs on top of the yogurt on each plate.
- Drizzle and Garnish: Spoon the warm spiced butter over the eggs, allowing the vibrant colors to show. Then drizzle the spicy chimichurri over everything for a fresh, zesty finish.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the Turkish Eggs warm, optionally with crusty bread or pita on the side to soak up the delicious sauces.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried herbs won’t provide the same vibrancy.
- White vinegar in the poaching water helps keep the egg whites neat but won’t affect the taste.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño in the chimichurri to control the spice level.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the Greek yogurt with a thick coconut or almond-based yogurt.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh; do not prepare too far in advance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Poaching
- Cuisine: Turkish
- Diet: Gluten Free
