Anda Masala
Hard-boiled eggs simmered in a rich and spicy onion-tomato gravy. This classic North Indian curry is a quick, protein-packed meal perfect with roti or rice, ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Boil and Prepare the Eggs
- b.Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water by at least an inch.
- c.Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes for hard-boiled eggs.
- d.Drain the hot water and immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath or run under cold water until cool enough to handle.
- e.Peel the eggs carefully and make 2-3 shallow diagonal slits on each one. This helps them absorb the masala flavors.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté the Eggs
- b.Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a wide pan or kadai over medium heat.
- c.Add the boiled and slit eggs, a pinch of turmeric powder, and a pinch of Kashmiri red chili powder.
- d.Sauté for 2-3 minutes, gently tossing, until the eggs are lightly golden and have a slightly crisp, blistered skin. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare the Masala Base
- b.In the same pan, add the remaining 3 tbsp of oil.
- c.Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and let them splutter for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- d.Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn soft and golden brown.
- e.Add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies. Cook for another minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook the Tomato Masala
- b.Add the tomato puree to the pan.
- c.Stir in the turmeric powder, Kashmiri red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt.
- d.Mix everything well and cook the masala on medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the mixture thickens and you see oil separating at the edges.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Simmer the Curry
- b.Pour in 1.5 cups of warm water and stir well, scraping any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
- c.Bring the gravy to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- d.Crush the kasuri methi between your palms and add it to the gravy along with the garam masala.
- e.Gently slide the sautéed eggs into the simmering gravy.
- f.Cover the pan and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the eggs to absorb the rich flavors of the curry.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Turn off the heat and garnish generously with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- c.Let the Anda Masala rest for 5 minutes for the flavors to meld together.
- d.Serve hot with fresh rotis, naan, parathas, or steamed basmati rice.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Making slits in the eggs is crucial for flavor absorption; don't skip this step.
- 2Sautéing the boiled eggs gives them a fantastic texture and prevents them from becoming rubbery in the gravy.
- 3The key to a rich gravy is cooking the onion-tomato masala until oil separates. Be patient during this stage.
- 4Using warm water for the gravy helps maintain the temperature and improves the texture.
- 5For a thicker gravy, simmer for a few extra minutes with the lid off. For a thinner gravy, add a little more warm water.
- 6Crush the kasuri methi between your palms before adding it to release its maximum aroma.
Adapt it for your goals.
Creamy Anda Masala
For a richer, creamier gravy, add 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream or a paste of 10-12 soaked cashews at the end of cooking. Simmer for 2 more minutes.
Dhaba StyleDhaba Style
For a more rustic, dhaba-style flavor, use mustard oil instead of vegetable oil and increase the amount of onions slightly. Garnish with ginger juliennes.
With PotatoesWith Potatoes
Add 1-2 boiled and cubed potatoes along with the eggs to make the curry more substantial and hearty.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the number of green chilies or add 1/2 teaspoon of regular red chili powder along with the Kashmiri chili powder for extra heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Eggs are a complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
This dish provides essential nutrients like Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, and selenium from eggs, and antioxidants like lycopene from cooked tomatoes.
Metabolism Boosting Spices
The use of spices like cumin, turmeric, and chili powder not only adds flavor but may also help boost metabolism and offer anti-inflammatory benefits.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Anda Masala (about 2 eggs with gravy) contains approximately 330-360 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.