How to Make Turkish Yogurt Soup (Yayla Corbasi)
Turkish yogurt soup, known as Yayla Çorbası, is a beloved dish in Turkish cuisine. This creamy and refreshing soup is typically made with yogurt, rice, and fresh herbs, and is perfect for any season. Here’s how to make this authentic Turkish recipe at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of rice
- 6 cups of water or chicken broth
- 1 cup of plain yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried mint (or fresh mint if available)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
In a large pot, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt. Cook the rice for about 15-20 minutes or until it is fully cooked and tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Yogurt Mixture
While the rice is cooking, in a medium bowl, whisk together the yogurt, eggs, and flour until smooth. This mixture is crucial for giving the soup its creamy texture.
Step 3: Temper the Yogurt
Once the rice is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Gradually add a few ladles of the hot broth to the yogurt mixture while continuously whisking. This step, known as tempering, prevents the yogurt from curdling.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
Slowly pour the tempered yogurt mixture back into the pot with the rice, stirring constantly. Increase the heat to medium-low and cook the soup for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently until the soup thickens slightly.
Step 5: Add Seasoning
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the dried mint for added flavor. If you prefer, you can also add some freshly chopped mint to enhance the freshness of the dish.
Step 6: Serve the Soup
In a small pan, melt the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add a pinch of dried mint and sauté for a minute to infuse the oil. Drizzle this herbed oil over the soup just before serving for an added flavor boost.
Your delicious Yayla Çorbası is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve warm with crusty bread and a sprinkle of fresh mint on top for garnish. This delightful yogurt soup is not only nutritious but also a wonderful representation of Turkish culinary traditions.
Tips for Making Perfect Yayla Çorbası
- For a creamier texture, add more yogurt.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs; dill or parsley make great alternatives.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, though you may need to add a bit more broth to adjust the consistency.
In addition to being a comforting dish, Yayla Çorbası is also a fantastic way to enjoy the health benefits of yogurt and rice. Try this recipe at home and experience the rich flavors of traditional Turkish soup.