Muttai Varuval with Curd Rice

Instructions

1. 1

   Boil the eggs: Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with at least an inch of cold water. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, turn off the heat, cover the pan, and let it stand for 10-12 minutes. Drain the hot water and run cold water over the eggs to cool them down. Once cool enough to handle, peel the eggs and slice them in half lengthwise. Set aside.

2. 2

   Temper the spices: Heat gingelly oil in a wide, non-stick pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Immediately add the urad dal and sauté for about 30 seconds until it turns light golden. Add the curry leaves and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.

3. 3

   Sauté the aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté for 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until the raw aroma disappears. Then, add the finely chopped tomato and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns soft and mushy.

4. 4

   Cook the masala: Reduce the heat to low. Add all the spice powders: turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, fennel powder (if using), and garam masala, along with the salt. Stir continuously for about one minute until the spices are fragrant. If the masala looks too dry, sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of water to prevent it from burning and help it cook.

5. 5

   Roast the eggs: Gently place the boiled egg halves into the pan, cut-side down. Let them roast in the masala for 2-3 minutes without moving them to get a nice crust. Carefully flip the eggs and gently toss to coat them evenly with the masala. Cook for another 2 minutes until the masala is dry and clings to the eggs.

6. 6

   Garnish and serve: Turn off the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve the Muttai Varuval hot as a side dish with rice and sambar, rasam, or with chapatis.