Turkish Yoghurt Soup (Yayla Çorbası)

One delightful dish that has warmed the hearts of countless families in Turkey is Yayla Çorbası. This creamy and cozy yogurt soup is a comforting hug in a bowl, evoking nostalgic memories of childhood and shared family meals.

One of the best things about Yayla Çorbası is its simplicity. Many ingredients are likely already in your kitchen—like yogurt, rice, and dried mint. This soup not only warms the body but also nourishes the soul. Let's explore what makes this dish special and how you can easily make it at home.

What is Yayla Çorbası?

Yayla Çorbası, often referred to as yogurt soup, is deeply rooted in Turkish cuisine. Traditionally made with yogurt and rice, it boasts a blend of spices that enhance its unique flavor. Creamy yet tangy, it creates a wonderful balance that feels indulgent without being overly rich.

Beyond being a favorite comfort food, Yayla Çorbası often serves as a first course during larger meals. It is well-known for its health benefits, particularly from yogurt, which is rich in probiotics. Sharing a bowl of this soup fosters a sense of community, making it perfect for chilly days or cozy gatherings.

Traditional Turkish yogurt soup (yayla çorbası) with rice, dried mint, and butter drizzle, served warm

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup plain yogurt

• 1 egg yolk

• 2 tablespoons flour

• 5 cups water or chicken broth

• ½ cup rice, rinsed

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried mint

• Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Recipe

Ready to cook? Follow this easy guide to whip up your very own Yayla Çorbası.

1. Make the Yogurt Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt, egg yolk, and flour until smooth. This mixture becomes the base of your creamy soup.

2. Prepare the Rice

In a large pot, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Once boiling, add the rinsed rice, cover, and cook until soft, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

3. Temper the Yogurt

This crucial step prevents the yogurt from curdling. Slowly add a few spoons of hot broth into the yogurt mixture while whisking constantly.

4. Combine the Mixtures

Gradually pour the tempered yogurt mixture into the pot while stirring. This creates the luscious, creamy texture characteristic of Yayla Çorbası. Let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Season and Finish

Once the soup has simmered, add salt to taste and stir. Melt the butter with olive oil in a small pan, add the dried mint, and let it sizzle for a few seconds. Pour this fragrant mix over the soup and give it a final stir.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, serving warm, and garnish with extra mint if desired. Enjoy it on its own or with crusty bread to soak up every last flavorful drop!

Why You’ll Love Yayla Çorbası

There are countless reasons why this soup becomes a favorite. It is incredibly easy to make and offers a combination of flavors and textures that soothe and satisfy. The creamy yogurt blend, tender rice, and aromatic mint harmonize beautifully, making each spoonful a cozy delight.

Pairing Options

Wondering what to serve alongside your soup? A slice of warm, crusty bread is always a great choice. Additionally, consider pairing it with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables. The light, creamy soup complements the crunchiness of a salad, creating a well-balanced meal.

Time to Get Cooking

Feeling chilly? It’s time to make Yayla Çorbası. This Turkish yogurt soup is perfect for warming up on cold nights or simply when you want something comforting. Its smooth, creamy texture and gentle flavors make it hard to resist.

Gather your ingredients, follow the steps above, and you will soon be enjoying a bowl of this heartwarming soup. It’s more than just a dish; it’s an experience that brings warmth and cheer to your table, no matter where you are. So why wait? Cozy up with Yayla Çorbası and let its comforting flavors whisk you away to a cozy Turkish kitchen!

Happy cooking!