This Turkish-inspired dish brings together bold spices, creamy textures, and savory richness in a beautifully layered plate. Featuring grilled sausages, delicately poached eggs, and a base of garlicky yogurt, all finished with a sizzling paprika butter, it’s a deeply flavorful meal that bridges comfort food and refined Middle Eastern cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a perfect balance of protein, creaminess, and spice. It’s rich and satisfying without being heavy, and each component brings something unique—from the tangy yogurt base to the runny poached eggs and smoky sausage. Whether served as a hearty brunch or a luxurious dinner, it’s an unforgettable culinary experience that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the base:

1 cup full-fat plain yogurt
1 garlic clove, finely grated
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
Salt to taste

For the sausage & eggs:

4 lamb or beef sausages (Sucuk or your choice)
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vinegar (for poaching)

For the spicy butter drizzle:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon paprika or Aleppo pepper
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil

To garnish:

Fresh dill or parsley

directions

In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, grated garlic, chopped dill, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
Grill or pan-fry the sausages in a skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through, turning occasionally. Once done, set aside and keep warm.
Bring a medium saucepan of water to a gentle simmer. Add the vinegar. Stir the water to create a whirlpool. Crack each egg into a small bowl and gently drop it into the water. Poach for 3–4 minutes or until the whites are set but yolks remain runny. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Stir in the paprika and chili flakes (if using), and let it sizzle for 30 seconds until aromatic. Remove from heat.
To assemble, spread a generous layer of the yogurt mixture on a plate. Place the grilled sausages and poached eggs over the yogurt.
Drizzle with the spiced butter mixture and garnish with fresh dill or parsley. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 people as a main dish.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace sausages with grilled eggplant slices or roasted mushrooms.
Spicier Version: Add a pinch of cayenne to the butter drizzle or use spicy sausage varieties.
Turkish Menemen Style: Add a side of sautéed tomatoes and peppers for a complete breakfast spread.
Bread Base: Serve over a slice of warm, toasted flatbread or pita for added texture.
Yogurt Alternative: Use labneh or Greek yogurt for a thicker, tangier base.

storage/reheating

This dish is best enjoyed fresh. However, components can be prepared ahead:

The yogurt mixture can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Cooked sausages can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently in a skillet.
Poached eggs are best prepared fresh, though they can be made ahead and kept in cold water in the fridge for up to 24 hours—reheat briefly in warm water before serving.
The spicy butter drizzle can be reheated just before assembling.

FAQs

Can I use yogurt with lower fat content?

Yes, but full-fat yogurt provides a creamier texture and richer flavor that balances the dish best.

What is Sucuk?

Sucuk is a spicy, dry Turkish sausage made from beef or lamb. It’s heavily seasoned and perfect for grilling or pan-frying.

Can I make this dish without poaching eggs?

Yes, you can use soft-boiled or fried eggs instead if you prefer.

Is Aleppo pepper the same as paprika?

No, but they are similar. Aleppo pepper has a slightly fruity, milder heat. Paprika is a fine substitute if Aleppo pepper is unavailable.

How do I prevent yogurt from curdling?

Use full-fat yogurt and avoid direct high heat. Serve it at room temperature or chilled beneath the hot ingredients.

Can I serve this dish cold?

It’s best served warm, but you can enjoy it at room temperature with slightly cooled components.

What kind of bread pairs well with this dish?

Pita, flatbread, or a slice of crusty sourdough complements the flavors perfectly.

Can I use pre-cooked sausages?

Yes, just slice and sear them briefly in a skillet for flavor and heat.

Is this dish traditionally Turkish?

It draws inspiration from Turkish poached eggs with yogurt (Çılbır) and sausage-based dishes but blends elements for a modern interpretation.

Can I scale this recipe up?

Yes, simply multiply the ingredients to serve more people. Poach eggs in batches if needed.

Conclusion

Turkish-Style Sausage with Poached Eggs and Garlic Yogurt is a flavorful, protein-rich dish that’s elegant enough for a brunch spread and easy enough for weeknight dinners. The contrast of creamy yogurt, rich sausage, runny egg, and spicy butter creates a complex, satisfying plate that celebrates Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine in a fresh and modern way.