**Turkish-Style Eggs: A Culinary Journey Through Flavor and Tradition**
Embark on a tantalizing culinary adventure with Turkish-style eggs, a diverse collection of delectable dishes that showcase the vibrant flavors and rich traditions of Turkish cuisine. From the classic Menemen, a hearty scramble of eggs, tomatoes, and peppers, to the indulgent Sucuk Yumurta, a symphony of flavors featuring spicy sausage and eggs, these recipes offer a captivating exploration of Turkish culinary artistry. Discover the secrets of Çılbır, poached eggs gracefully adorned with garlicky yogurt and chili oil, and savor the simplicity yet profound taste of Sade Yumurta, a testament to the beauty of perfectly cooked eggs. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds and immerse yourself in the culinary heritage of Turkey with this comprehensive guide to Turkish-style eggs.
TURKISH EGGS
If I hadn't eaten the Turkish eggs at Peter Gordon's restaurant, The Providores, I most certainly wouldn't be tempted by the idea of poached eggs on Greek yogurt. I say that only to pre-empt any hesitancy on your part. For çilbir, pronounced "chulburr", is a revelation and a complete sensation. If you can't get the Aleppo pepper, also known as pul biber or Turkish red pepper flakes, which has a mild, almost sweet heat and a distinctive lemoniness, you could substitute paprika, adding a pinch of dried chilli flakes. But, in these days of online grocery shopping, I'd encourage you to go for the real thing. This is the recipe that helped me overcome my fear of poaching eggs (see additional info below). For US cup measures, use the toggle at the top of the ingredients list.
Provided by Nigella
Yield Serves: 2
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Fill a wide-ish saucepan (I use one of 22cm diameter) with water to come about 4cm up the sides of the pan. Put it on the heat and cover so that it heats up faster. Line a large plate with some kitchen roll, get out a slotted spoon, and put both near the pan now. Now fill another pan - on which a heatproof bowl can sit comfortably - again with water to come 3-4cm up the sides, and bring to the boil. Put the yogurt in said bowl, stir in the garlic and salt, and sit it on top of this pan, making sure the base of the bowl doesn't touch the water. Stir it until it gets to body temperature and has the consistency of lightly whipped double cream. Turn off the heat and leave the bowl as it is, over the pan. Melt the butter gently in a small pan until it is just beginning to turn a hazelnutty brown (this is why, in classic French cuisine, it's known as beurre noisette), but make sure it's not actually burning. Turn the heat off under the pan, then stir in the olive oil, followed by the beautiful red pepper flakes; it will foam up fierily. Leave to one side while you get on with the eggs. And this is when you should be thinking of putting the toast on. When you are ready to poach the eggs, crack the first egg into a finemesh strainer suspended over a small bowl, then lift it up a little and swirl gently for about 30 seconds, letting the watery part of the white drip into the bowl. Gently tip the egg into a small cup or ramekin and, aiming for the white, add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice; I know everyone else says vinegar, but I just don't like the taste of it on the egg, and the lemon does the trick just the same. Proceed as above with the second egg. When the poaching water is just starting to simmer, take a cup or ramekin in each hand and gently slide in the eggs, one on each side of the pan. Turn the heat right down so there is no movement in the water whatsoever, and poach the eggs for 3-4 minutes until the whites are set and the yolks still runny. Transfer the eggs with your slotted spoon to the paper-lined plate to remove any excess water. Do remember to switch off the heat. Sorry to state the obvious, but I have too often left it on this low without noticing. Divide the warm creamy yogurt between two shallow bowls, top each with a poached egg, pour the peppery butter around and slightly over the yogurt, scatter the chopped dill on top, and eat dreamily, dipping in some thick well-toasted bread as you do so.
TURKISH EGGS
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Place the yogurt and garlic in a small bowl and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Divide between 4 small ovenproof dishes and place in the oven for 10 minutes. While the yogurt is warming, put 2 inches of water in a deep frying plan and bring to a boil. Turn off the heat and immediately break the eggs into the pan. To stop the egg whites spreading too much, break the eggs directly into the water, carefully opening the shells at the water surface so that the eggs slide into the water. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid. Leave to cook undisturbed in the water for about 3 minutes. The eggs are cooked when the whites are opaque. Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon and drain on a clean tea towel. Mix the olive oil and paprika together in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the yogurt from the oven and top with the spinach leaves and poached egg. Drizzle over the olive oil mixture and serve at once.
Tips:
- For the best results, use fresh, organic eggs in this recipe.
- To ensure even cooking, bring the eggs to room temperature before starting the recipe.
- If you don't have a nonstick skillet, use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet or a skillet coated with cooking spray.
- Cook the eggs over medium-low heat to prevent them from overcooking or burning.
- If you like your eggs with a runny yolk, cook them for 3 to 4 minutes per side.
- For a more cooked yolk, cook the eggs for an additional 1 to 2 minutes per side.
- Serve the eggs immediately garnished with fresh herbs, such as cilantro, parsley, or chives.
Conclusion:
This Turkish-style eggs recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you like your eggs sunny-side up, scrambled, or over easy, this recipe has something for everyone. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy meal, try this Turkish-style eggs recipe. You won't be disappointed!
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