Turkish Eggs with Harissa Butter and Avocado Relish

There’s nothing quite like the vibrant flavors of Turkish Eggs with Harissa Butter and Avocado Relish to brighten your morning! I stumbled upon this delightful dish during a brunch with friends, and it instantly became a favorite. The creamy yogurt, perfectly fried eggs, and the spicy kick of harissa create a beautiful harmony that dances on your palate. It’s a dish that feels special yet is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for everything from casual breakfasts to elegant brunch gatherings. The first bite transports you to a bustling café in Istanbul, and the vibrant colors on your plate invite you to indulge. Trust me; you’ll want to make this recipe your new go-to for any occasion!

What Goes Into Turkish Eggs with Harissa Butter and Avocado Relish

Every dish tells a story, and the ingredients in Turkish Eggs with Harissa Butter and Avocado Relish narrate a tale of freshness and flavor. Each component plays a vital role, working harmoniously together to create a meal that is vibrant and nourishing. The star of the show is the creamy yogurt, paired beautifully with the earthiness of avocado and the zest of parsley. The addition of harissa introduces a delightful spiciness that elevates the dish to new heights. Here’s what you’ll need:

• ½ cup whole milk Greek yogurt (or cream top yogurt) – Rich and creamy, this ingredient serves as the perfect base, offering a tangy flavor that balances the spices.
• 1 garlic clove – Adds depth and a hint of pungency that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt – Essential for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 1 avocado – Creamy and nutritious, it adds a wonderful texture and richness to the dish.
• ½ cup packed parsley – Fresh parsley brings brightness and a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing and refreshing in flavor.
• Juice from half a lemon – Adds a zesty brightness, cutting through the richness of the other ingredients.
• ½ teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (black and white) – Adds a nice crunch and nutty flavor to the avocado relish.
• Salt (to taste) – A necessary component to adjust the overall seasoning of the dish.
• 4 teaspoons ghee – Provides a rich, buttery flavor and helps to fry the eggs perfectly.
• 2 eggs – The stars of the dish, fried to your desired doneness, bringing protein and flavor.
• 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and helps to create the harissa butter sauce.
• 1 to 3 teaspoons harissa paste (see note) – The key ingredient that introduces warmth and spice to the dish, adjustable to your heat preference.

How to Assemble Turkish Eggs with Harissa Butter and Avocado Relish

Assembling the Turkish Eggs with Harissa Butter and Avocado Relish is a delightful journey that rewards you with a delicious meal. Follow these simple steps to create this beautiful dish:

1. Start by combining the yogurt, garlic, and salt in a bowl. Let it sit while you prepare the other ingredients. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a creamy and fragrant base.
2. Next, take your avocado and cut it in half, carefully removing the pit. Slice the avocado lengthwise and then crosswise to create small cubes, being cautious not to cut through the skin. Use a spoon to scoop out the pieces into a bowl. You’ll love the vibrant color and creamy texture that the avocado adds!
3. Finely mince the parsley and add it to the bowl with the avocado. Squeeze in the juice from half a lemon, sprinkle in the sesame seeds, and season with a little salt. Mix everything gently, taking care not to mash the avocado. This fresh relish is a fantastic complement to the eggs.
4. Now, it’s time to fry the eggs. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add half of the ghee. Once melted and shimmering, carefully add the first egg. Fry it until the whites are set and the edges start to crisp up, keeping an eye on the yolk to reach your desired doneness.
5. Once the first egg is done, remove it from the skillet and repeat the process with the second egg, adding more ghee if necessary. You want both eggs to have that lovely golden appearance, creating a beautiful contrast against the creamy yogurt.
6. After frying the eggs, wipe out the skillet to get rid of any residue. Lower the heat and add the butter. Let it melt slowly, and once melted, stir in the harissa paste. Start with a small amount, tasting as you go, adjusting the heat to your preference. This sauce is what will take your dish to the next level!
7. Now, it’s time to assemble your masterpiece! Divide the yogurt mixture into two serving dishes, smoothing it over the bottom. Top each with a fried egg, then drizzle the rich harissa butter over the top. Finally, finish with a generous scoop of the avocado relish. The colors and textures should be stunning!
8. Serve immediately, savoring the beautiful fusion of flavors and textures. You’ll find that each bite of the Turkish Eggs with Harissa Butter and Avocado Relish is an experience to cherish!

Tips and Variations

To make the most out of your Turkish Eggs with Harissa Butter and Avocado Relish, here are some helpful tips and variations to consider:

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store the components separately. The yogurt can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, while the avocado relish is best consumed fresh.
• Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can freeze the fried eggs individually for quick breakfasts later; just reheat gently.
• Pairing: Serve with warm pita bread or crusty sourdough for a hearty meal. A side salad with citrus dressing also complements the dish beautifully.
• Variations: Experiment with different toppings like crumbled feta or olives for added flavor. You could also use different herbs, such as cilantro or dill, based on your taste preferences.
• Heat Level: Adjust the amount of harissa based on your spice tolerance. For a milder version, consider using a yogurt sauce with herbs instead of harissa.
• Cooking Eggs: Try poaching the eggs instead of frying for a lighter option. The runny yolk pairs exceptionally well with the yogurt.

Best Served With

• Fresh Bread: Serve with warm pita or crusty bread to soak up the flavors of the harissa butter and yogurt.
• Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light dressing is a perfect complement to balance the richness of the dish.
• Occasions: Ideal for brunch gatherings, special occasions, or a cozy family breakfast, this dish fits various settings.
• Seasonal Pairing: Enjoy this dish year-round! In warmer months, pair with fresh summer vegetables for a lighter touch.
• Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in separate containers. The yogurt will keep well for a couple of days, while the avocado is best consumed fresh.
• Presentation: Don’t hesitate to garnish with extra parsley or sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation. A sprinkle of paprika can also add a lovely color contrast!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Turkish Eggs with Harissa Butter and Avocado Relish is a wonderful dish that brings excitement to your breakfast table. It’s a beautiful blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re serving it at a brunch gathering or enjoying it solo, this dish is sure to impress. I hope you give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!

Turkish Eggs with Harissa Butter and Avocado Relish

The ultimate comfort food, Turkish Eggs with Harissa Butter and Avocado Relish is a delightful blend of creamy yogurt, perfectly fried eggs, and a spicy kick of harissa. This easy dish will tantalize your taste buds and is perfect for brunch or a cozy breakfast at home.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: Turkish

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ½ cup whole milk Greek yogurt
• 1 garlic clove
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• 1 avocado
• ½ cup packed parsley
• Juice from half a lemon
• ½ teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (black and white)
• Salt to taste
• 4 teaspoons ghee
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 to 3 teaspoons harissa paste (see note)

Equipment

• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Food Processor

Method

 

1. Combine the yogurt, garlic, and salt in a bowl. Let sit while making the rest of the dish.
2. Next, cut the avocado in half and remove the pit. Cut into the avocado lengthwise, then crosswise, being careful not to cut into the avocado skin. Use a spoon and scoop out the avocado pieces. Place in a bowl.
3. Mince the parsley and add to the avocado along with the lemon juice, sesame seeds, and salt.
4. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add half of the ghee and once melted, add the egg. Fry the egg, spooning some of the ghee over the egg whites to help set. Once the whites are set and starting to crisp around the edges, remove the egg and repeat the process with the remaining egg.
5. Finally, wipe out the egg skillet and return to low heat. Add the butter, melt, and stir in the harissa paste. Start with a small amount of the paste, adding more as you desire.
6. Assemble the eggs. Divide the yogurt into two dishes, smoothing over the bottom. Top each with an egg, followed by a drizzle of harrissa butter, and finish with the avocado relish.

Notes

• Harissa Paste: Taste your harissa paste before adding it to the butter. If it’s hot, start small and add more as desired.
• Room Temp Yogurt: This dish is traditionally served with room-temperature yogurt (which makes sense- cold yogurt/hot egg isn’t the most appealing mouthful). I’d recommend measuring your yogurt out about an hour before you plan to make the recipe.

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Meet Zara Knight

I founded Zest Home Recipes because I believe home cooking should never be boring. My mission is to wake up your palate with recipes that are vibrant, easy, and full of life. I personally cook, photograph, and approve every dish on this site to ensure it brings a spark of joy and a burst of flavor to your kitchen table.