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Turkish cuisine is rich in flavors and textures, offering a delightful array of dishes that are both comforting and aromatic. One such dish that has captured the hearts of many is ceciir, a traditional breakfast item with deep roots in Turkish culture.
While many may know about Turkish eggs (çılbır), ceciir is a lesser-known gem that deserves more attention. In this article, we will dive into what cuisine is, how it’s made, and why it is a must-try for anyone interested in Turkish culinary delights.
What is Ceciir?
Ceciir is a savory dish often enjoyed as part of a traditional Turkish breakfast or brunch. The key components of include chickpeas, yogurt, and a flavorful combination of spices and herbs. It is commonly served with a side of fresh, crusty bread to scoop up the delicious combination of textures.
This dish combines the earthy taste of chickpeas with the creamy tanginess of yogurt and the warmth of spices, making it an incredibly satisfying meal.
In Turkish homes, is not just a dish; it’s a symbol of warmth and hospitality. It is often served to guests or enjoyed as a nourishing start to the day. But what sets apart from other chickpea-based dishes? Let’s explore its essential components and the unique process of creating this meal.
Key Ingredients of Çeciir

Component | Ingredient | Quantity (per serving) | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
For the Yogurt | Thick, plain yogurt | ½ cup (~120g) | Greek yogurt or plain curd works best. |
For the Poaching | Large fresh egg | 1 | Use fresh, good-quality eggs. |
Water for Poaching | Water | 3-4 cups | Enough to fully cover the egg. |
For Poaching | White vinegar | 1 tablespoon | Helps egg whites set and hold their shape. |
Chickpeas: The Heart of the Dish
At the core of ceciir are chickpeas, which provide a hearty, nutty base for the dish. Chickpeas, known as “nohut” in Turkish, are widely used in Turkish cuisine due to their versatility and ability to absorb flavors. In, they are often cooked until tender, then mashed slightly to create a thicker, almost creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the yogurt.
Yogurt: A Creamy Companion
Thick, plain yogurt is another essential ingredient in ceciir. It adds a cooling contrast to the warmth of the chickpeas and spices. The yogurt is often mixed with garlic, salt, and sometimes fresh herbs such as parsley or dill. This combination creates a tangy and refreshing base that balances the richness of the chickpeas.
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Spices and Herbs: The Flavor Boosters
What makes Ceciir truly special is the blend of spices that elevate the dish to new heights. The most common spices used in ceciir are red pepper flakes (pul biber), cumin, and dried mint.
These spices add warmth and depth to the dish, infusing the chickpeas and yogurt with fragrant aromas that awaken the senses. Fresh herbs like parsley and dill are often sprinkled on top, providing a burst of color and freshness.
How to Make Çeciir

Category | Item | Notes |
---|---|---|
Mixing | Small mixing bowl | For yogurt base. |
Cooking | Saucepan (medium-sized) | For poaching eggs. |
Small skillet or butter warmer | For melting butter and blooming spices. | |
Utensils | Slotted spoon | For carefully removing poached egg. |
Fork or whisk | For mixing yogurt. | |
Measuring cups | For liquids and dry ingredients. | |
Measuring spoons | For smaller quantities of spices. | |
Serving | Serving plate or shallow bowl | Flat enough to spread yogurt, with a rim. |
Making ceciir is a simple process that involves a few key steps. While it’s traditionally served as a breakfast dish, it can easily be adapted to any time of the day, whether for brunch, lunch, or even dinner. Here’s how you can prepare this flavorful Turkish dish at home.
Preparing the Chickpeas
To start, you’ll need dried chickpeas, which should be soaked overnight and then cooked until tender. Alternatively, you can use canned chickpeas for quicker preparation. Once cooked, mash a portion of the chickpeas to create a thick, slightly chunky texture. Leave some whole for added texture.
Preparing the Yogurt Base
In a small bowl, combine thick yogurt with grated garlic and a pinch of salt. If you want a more vibrant flavor, you can mix in a tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley or dill. This will add a layer of freshness that balances the richness of the yogurt.
Cooking the Spiced Butter
In a separate pan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat and add red pepper flakes, cumin, and a pinch of dried mint. Stir for about a minute until the spices become fragrant, releasing their oils and infusing the butter with their flavors. Be careful not to let the butter burn—aim for a vibrant red color, signaling that the spices have bloomed.
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Assembling the Dish
Now, it’s time to assemble your ceciir. On a serving plate, spread the garlicky yogurt mixture, then layer the mashed and whole chickpeas on top.
Drizzle the hot, spiced butter generously over the dish, allowing the vibrant red sauce to pool around the chickpeas and yogurt. Finally, garnish with fresh herbs like dill or parsley, if desired, to add an extra pop of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Çılbır (Turkish Eggs) Recipe Tables
Nutrient Information (per serving)
Nutrient | Approximate Value (per serving) |
---|---|
Calories | 300-400 kcal |
Protein | 15-20 g |
Total Fat | 25-35 g |
– Saturated Fat | 15-20 g |
– Trans Fat | <0.5 g |
Cholesterol | 200-250 mg |
Carbohydrates | 10-15 g |
– Dietary Fiber | 0-1 g |
– Sugars | 5-10 g |
Sodium | 200-300 mg |
Ceciir is traditionally served with a side of crusty bread, which is perfect for scooping up creamy yogurt, flavorful chickpeas, and aromatic spiced butter. You can use any type of bread, but Turkish pide or a hearty sourdough is particularly ideal. The bread allows you to enjoy every bite and soak up the delicious yogurt and butter mixture.
Although typically enjoyed as part of breakfast or brunch, can also be served as a light lunch or a comforting dinner. You can pair it with a side salad or pickled vegetables to add some acidity and balance the richness of the dish.
Why Ceciir is a Must-Try Dish

While dishes like kebabs and baklava often steal the spotlight in Turkish cuisine, ceciir offers a refreshing and wholesome alternative. This dish combines the wholesome goodness of chickpeas with the tang of yogurt and the warmth of spices, making it a nutritious and satisfying choice.
Ceciir also reflects the essence of Turkish home cooking—simple, flavorful ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. Whether you are new to Turkish cuisine or a seasoned enthusiast, is a dish that promises to introduce you to the heart of Turkish culinary traditions.
Variations of Çeciir
Like many traditional dishes, can be customized to suit personal tastes. Some people prefer to add sautéed onions or tomatoes to the chickpeas for extra flavor, while others might experiment with different herbs and spices.
The spiced butter can also be adjusted to your heat tolerance—whether you like it mild or prefer to turn up the heat with more red pepper flakes.
If you want to make the dish more substantial, you can add a fried egg on top of the chickpeas and yogurt, similar to Turkish eggs (çılbır). This adds protein and richness, turning ceciir into a more filling meal.
Final Thoughts
Ceciir is a delightful and flavorful Turkish dish that deserves a spot on your breakfast or brunch table. With its balance of creamy yogurt, hearty chickpeas, and spicy butter, it offers a unique taste of Turkey that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for yourself or to guests, is sure to impress with its simplicity, flavor, and versatility.
So, the next time you’re loyou’reto try something new or to crave a taste of Turkey, give a try. With just a few ingredients and a bit of care, you can enjoy a dish that captures the heart.
FAQs
What is çeciir?
Çeciir is a Turkish dish made with chickpeas, yogurt, and spiced butter, often enjoyed for breakfast or brunch. It’s a comforting mix of creamy, savory, and aromatic flavors.
Can I make çeciir vegetarian?
Yes, çeciir is naturally vegetarian. It features chickpeas, yogurt, and spices, making it a perfect plant-based dish. You can adjust the spices to your taste preferences as well.
How do I serve çeciir?
Çeciir is typically served with crusty bread for dipping, but you can also pair it with a side salad or pickled vegetables to balance the flavors