For those seeking a brunch dish that is both spectacularly simple and bursting with flavour, look no further than Meera Sodha's Turkish eggs with lemon yoghurt. This recipe, featured in her column, offers a delightful twist on a classic, combining creamy, tangy yoghurt with perfectly poached eggs and a kick of chilli butter.
The Art of Simple, Flavourful Brunch
Meera Sodha, the celebrated cookbook author and food writer, has a knack for creating accessible yet impressive dishes. Her take on çilbir, the traditional Turkish egg dish, is no exception. The recipe demystifies the process, making a restaurant-worthy meal achievable for any home cook on a leisurely weekend morning.
The magic lies in the harmonious combination of textures and tastes. Thick, Greek-style yoghurt is whipped until smooth and infused with the fresh zest and juice of a lemon, creating a bright, creamy base. Upon this, gently poached eggs are nestled, their golden yolks ready to run. The crowning glory is a sizzling butter sauce, infused with pul biber (Turkish chilli flakes) or regular chilli flakes, which is poured over the top, creating rivulets of spicy, fragrant oil.
Key Ingredients and Method
Sodha's recipe calls for a concise list of ingredients, emphasising quality over quantity. The foundation is full-fat Greek yoghurt, which provides the necessary richness and body. A whole lemon is used for its yoghurt dressing, ensuring a pronounced citrus note that cuts through the dairy.
For the chilli butter, unsalted butter is melted until foaming before the chilli flakes are added, toasting briefly to release their flavour without burning. The eggs are poached in simmering water with a dash of vinegar, a technique Sodha outlines clearly for perfect results every time. The dish is traditionally served with crusty bread for dipping, making it a satisfying and complete meal.
The entire recipe can be prepared and on the table in roughly 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a spontaneous yet special brunch. Its visual appeal—the white yoghurt, golden eggs, and red chilli oil—is as impressive as its taste.
Why This Recipe Resonates
This recipe exemplifies the modern British approach to global cuisines: respectful of tradition but adapted for the contemporary home kitchen. Sodha's clear instructions and encouragement make it accessible, while the result feels indulgent and sophisticated.
Dishes like this Turkish eggs recipe speak to a growing desire for weekend cooking that feels like a treat without requiring hours of effort. It's a perfect example of how a few well-chosen ingredients, treated with care, can create something truly memorable. Whether for a solo weekend treat or a centrepiece for guests, it’s a recipe that promises to deliver on flavour and style.
