Experience the Comforting Delight of Turkish Yogurt Soup – Yayla Çorbası.
Discover the authentic flavors of Turkish Yogurt Soup, or Yayla Çorbası, a cherished dish that brings together the creamy tanginess of yogurt, the soft texture of baldo rice, and the aromatic notes of dried mint.
This traditional Turkish recipe is a perfect example of the rich culinary heritage of Turkey, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that is simple yet full of flavor.
Yayla Çorbası is ideal for light lunches, family dinners, or as an appetizer at any gathering. The velvety texture, achieved with a careful liaison technique, combined with the warm, fragrant butter infused with dried mint, makes this soup a standout dish. Whether served with freshly baked bread, a crisp vegetable salad, or as part of a mezze platter, this soup provides a delightful taste of Turkey's vibrant food culture.
Rich in tradition and beloved across households, Turkish Yogurt Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience. Pair it with roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or enjoy it on its own for a wholesome and heartwarming dish that celebrates the simplicity and elegance of Turkish cuisine.
⦁ 1 ½ cups yogurt
⦁ ½ cup baldo rice
⦁ 1 full tbsp all-purpose flour
⦁ 1 egg yolk
⦁ 1 tbsp dried mint
⦁ 2 tbsp butter
⦁ 5 cups water (or chicken/meat broth)
⦁ Salt
1. Wash the baldo rice thoroughly and boil it with 3 cups of water in a medium pot until it softens.
2. Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the stove, add 2 more cups of water, and allow it to cool slightly.
3. In a medium bowl, prepare the liaison by combining the egg yolk, yogurt, and flour. Stir until smooth and well-blended.
4. Gradually add 8-10 tablespoons of warm soup (one tablespoon at a time) into the liaison, stirring continuously to temper it and prevent curdling.
5. Slowly pour the liaison into the pot, stirring constantly. Bring the soup to a gentle boil and cook for 5-10 minutes.
6. Season the soup with salt to taste.
7. In a small pan, melt the butter and add the dried mint. Stir until the mint releases its fragrance.
8. Pour the butter mixture into the soup and stir well.
9. Serve warm. Adjust the soup's consistency with water if it thickens upon standing.
🛒 Choosing Ingredients
✔ Plain Yogurt – Use full-fat for the creamiest texture and best flavor
✔ Rice – Short-grain or medium-grain works best for a starchy, comforting base
✔ Egg Yolk – Helps stabilize the yogurt and prevents curdling
✔ All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup and binds the yogurt
✔ Butter – For the finishing drizzle and richness
✔ Dried Mint – The signature herb of Yayla Çorbası; don't skip it
✔ Salt – To taste
✔ Water or Stock – Light vegetable or chicken stock adds depth without overpowering
✔ Optional: Garlic – A subtle clove for aroma, if desired
👩🍳 Preparation
✔ Cook the Rice – Simmer in salted water or stock until fully tender
✔ Whisk Yogurt Mix – Blend yogurt, flour, and egg yolk until smooth
✔ Temper the Yogurt – Slowly mix in ladles of hot rice water to warm the yogurt without curdling
✔ Add to Pot – Pour the tempered yogurt into the pot and stir constantly over low heat
✔ Simmer Gently – Cook until slightly thickened and smooth
🔥 Cooking Techniques
✔ Stir Continuously – Yogurt soups are delicate; keep the temperature low and stir often
✔ Don’t Let It Boil – Boiling can cause the yogurt to split or curdle
✔ Make the Mint Butter – Melt butter and bloom dried mint for 30 seconds until fragrant
✔ Drizzle Last – Add the mint butter over each serving for aroma and tradition
🍳 Balancing Flavors
✔ Subtle & Soothing – This soup is mild; salt and mint are your key flavor enhancers
✔ Garlic (Optional) – Adds a savory background if you like a bit more depth
✔ Lemon (Optional) – A tiny squeeze can brighten the yogurt if it feels too heavy
✔ Adjust Consistency – Add water or stock to loosen if it thickens too much
📦 Storage
✔ Refrigerate – Lasts 2–3 days in the fridge; stir before reheating
✔ Reheat Gently – Low and slow; don’t let it boil
✔ Not Freezer-Friendly – Yogurt base tends to separate when frozen
✔ Mint Butter – Store separately and reheat before serving again
🍽 Serving
✔ Traditional Finish – Serve hot with mint butter drizzled on top
✔ Garnish Ideas – Extra dried mint, a dusting of sumac, or fresh parsley
✔ Bread Pairing – Pair with simit or crusty bread for a light meal
✔ Comfort Food – Perfect as a soothing dish when you're under the weather or need something light