Dim Shorshe
A classic Bengali egg curry where hard-boiled eggs are simmered in a sharp, pungent mustard and poppy seed gravy. This authentic Dim Shorshe is a flavor explosion, best enjoyed with steamed rice.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Eggs and Mustard Paste
- b.Place 8 eggs in a saucepan, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 10 minutes for hard-boiled eggs. Transfer to an ice bath to cool, then peel them.
- c.Using a small knife, make 2-3 shallow slits on each boiled egg. This helps them absorb the gravy.
- d.In a small bowl, soak the black mustard seeds, yellow mustard seeds, and poppy seeds in 1/4 cup of warm water for at least 20-30 minutes.
- e.Transfer the soaked seeds to a grinder. Add the grated coconut, 2 green chillies, and a pinch of salt. Grind to a very smooth paste, adding a little more water if necessary.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté the Eggs
- b.Heat 2 tablespoons of mustard oil in a kadai or pan over medium heat until it's slightly smoking.
- c.Rub the boiled eggs with a pinch of turmeric powder and a pinch of salt.
- d.Carefully add the eggs to the hot oil and sauté for 2-3 minutes, turning them gently until they are lightly golden and blistered on the outside.
- e.Remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Gravy Base
- b.In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of mustard oil.
- c.Once the oil is hot, add the nigella seeds and the 2 remaining slit green chillies. Let them splutter for about 30 seconds.
- d.Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
- e.Add the ginger paste and cook for another minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Finish the Curry
- b.Lower the heat completely and add the prepared mustard paste to the pan. Sauté for just 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously. Be careful not to overcook, as it can turn bitter.
- c.Add the remaining turmeric powder, Kashmiri red chilli powder, salt, and sugar. Mix well and cook for 1 minute.
- d.Pour in 1.5 cups of warm water and stir to combine everything. Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer.
- e.Gently slide the fried eggs into the gravy. Cover the pan and let it simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- f.Turn off the heat. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves. For an extra pungent kick, drizzle a teaspoon of raw mustard oil on top before serving.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Serve
- b.Serve Dim Shorshe hot with a plate of plain steamed rice.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic taste, use only mustard oil. Heat it until it's slightly smoking to reduce its raw pungency before adding other ingredients.
- 2Soaking the mustard and poppy seeds in warm water is crucial for a smooth, non-gritty paste.
- 3Never overcook the mustard paste. Sautéing it for more than a few minutes on low heat will make the entire gravy bitter.
- 4The small amount of sugar is essential to balance the sharp flavors of the mustard and the heat from the chillies.
- 5Making slits in the boiled eggs is a key step that allows the flavorful gravy to penetrate inside.
- 6A final drizzle of raw mustard oil just before serving enhances the aroma and is a traditional finishing touch.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
This same 'shorshe' gravy can be used to cook fish (Shorshe Maach) or paneer (Shorshe Paneer). Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
You can add potato wedges (fried along with the eggs) or eggplant pieces to make the curry more substantial.
With TomatoWith Tomato
For a slight tang, add one finely chopped tomato after the onions are cooked. Sauté until it becomes soft and mushy before adding the mustard paste.
Creamier GravyCreamier Gravy
For a richer, creamier texture, you can add a tablespoon of beaten curd (yogurt) along with the mustard paste. Ensure the heat is low to prevent curdling.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Eggs are a complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids. Protein is vital for building and repairing tissues, muscle growth, and overall body function.
Source of Healthy Fats
Mustard oil is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, including omega-3 fatty acids. These fats are beneficial for cardiovascular health by helping to lower bad cholesterol levels.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
The dish contains ingredients like turmeric (with its active compound curcumin) and mustard seeds, both of which are known for their natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help combat inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Dim Shorshe (approximately 2 eggs with gravy) contains around 350-400 calories. This is an estimate and can vary based on the amount of oil and coconut used.