Anda Palak Bhurji
A quick and nutritious North Indian scramble of eggs and fresh spinach, spiced with onions, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a protein-packed breakfast or a light lunch with roti or bread.
For 4 servings
7 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Prepare the eggs: In a medium bowl, crack the 8 eggs
- a.Add 1/2 tsp of the salt and whisk well until the yolks and whites are fully combined. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté aromatics: Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan or kadai over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 tsp of cumin seeds and let them splutter for about 30 seconds.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the base: Add the 2 finely chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they turn soft and translucent. Then, add 1 tbsp of ginger-garlic paste and the 2 chopped green chillies. Sauté for another minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- 4
Build the masala: Add the 2 finely chopped tomatoes to the pan
- a.Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and mushy. Add 0.5 tsp turmeric powder, 0.5 tsp red chilli powder, and the remaining 0.5 tsp of salt. Mix well and cook the spices for 1 minute.
- 5
Wilt the spinach: Add the 200g of finely chopped spinach to the pan
- a.Stir everything together and cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts completely and its moisture evaporates.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Scramble the eggs: Reduce the heat to low and pour the whisked egg mixture into the pan. Let it sit for 30 seconds without stirring. Then, gently start to scramble with a spatula, scraping the bottom of the pan. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently, until the eggs are just set but still moist. Do not overcook.
- 7
Finish and serve: Turn off the heat
- a.Sprinkle 0.5 tsp of garam masala and 2 tbsp of chopped coriander leaves over the bhurji. Give it a final gentle mix. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, remove the bhurji from the heat when the eggs are about 90% cooked. They will continue to cook in the residual heat.
- 2If using frozen spinach, ensure you thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess water to prevent the bhurji from becoming watery.
- 3For a richer, creamier version, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of fresh cream (malai) or a knob of butter along with the garam masala at the end.
- 4Ensure all your vegetables are finely chopped for a uniform texture and quick cooking time.
Adapt it for your goals.
Creamy Anda Palak Bhurji
Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or malai in the final step along with the garam masala for a richer, creamier texture.
Mushroom Anda Palak BhurjiMushroom Anda Palak Bhurji
Sauté 100g of sliced mushrooms along with the onions until they are browned, then proceed with the rest of the recipe.
Cheesy Anda Palak BhurjiCheesy Anda Palak Bhurji
Sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the bhurji just before turning off the heat. Cover for a minute to let it melt.
Vegan Tofu Palak BhurjiVegan Tofu Palak Bhurji
Replace the eggs with 400g of crumbled firm tofu. Add the tofu after the spinach has wilted and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring well. You may need to add a pinch of black salt (kala namak) for an 'eggy' flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Eggs provide all nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein source crucial for muscle building, tissue repair, and overall body function.
Rich in Iron and Vitamins
Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, including iron for blood health, Vitamin K for bone strength, and Vitamin A for healthy vision and immune function.
Promotes Satiety
The combination of high protein from eggs and fiber from the vegetables helps you feel full and satisfied for longer, which can aid in weight management by reducing overall calorie intake.
Boosts Energy Levels
This dish is rich in B-vitamins and iron, both of which play a key role in converting food into energy, helping to combat fatigue and keep you energized.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a very healthy dish. It's an excellent source of high-quality protein from eggs and is rich in iron, vitamins A, C, and K from spinach. It's also low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice for a balanced meal.