Dimer Malaikari
A classic Bengali delicacy where hard-boiled eggs are simmered in a luscious, creamy coconut milk gravy, fragrant with whole spices. This rich yet mild curry is a perfect comfort food, best enjoyed with steamed rice.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare and Fry the Eggs
- b.Make 2-3 shallow slits on the surface of the hard-boiled eggs. This helps them absorb the flavors of the gravy.
- c.In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of mustard oil over medium heat. Add a pinch of turmeric powder and salt.
- d.Gently add the slit eggs to the pan and shallow-fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are evenly light golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Temper the Spices (Phoron)
- b.In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of mustard oil.
- c.Once the oil is hot, add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, lightly crushed green cardamoms, and cloves.
- d.Sauté for about 30-45 seconds until the whole spices become fragrant.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Build the Gravy Base
- b.Add the finely chopped onions to the pan. Sauté on medium heat for 5-7 minutes until they turn soft and golden brown.
- c.Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
- d.Stir in the tomato puree and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- e.Add the powdered spices: turmeric, Kashmiri red chili, cumin, and coriander powder, along with 1 tsp of salt. Mix well and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil begins to separate from the masala.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Create the Coconut Curry
- b.Reduce the heat to low. Slowly pour in the thick coconut milk, stirring continuously to prevent it from curdling.
- c.Add 1/2 cup of warm water to achieve your desired gravy consistency. Stir in the sugar and the remaining salt.
- d.Allow the gravy to come to a gentle simmer. Avoid boiling it vigorously to maintain a smooth texture.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Combine and Finish
- b.Gently place the fried eggs and the slit green chilies into the simmering gravy.
- c.Cover the pan and let it cook on low heat for 5-6 minutes, allowing the eggs to soak up the flavors.
- d.Turn off the heat. Sprinkle the garam masala powder and drizzle the ghee over the curry.
- e.Give it a gentle stir, cover the pan again, and let it rest for 5 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Serve
- b.Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- c.Serve hot with steamed basmati rice or luchis (Bengali fried bread).
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest and most authentic flavor. Light coconut milk will result in a thinner gravy.
- 2Don't over-fry the eggs, as they can become tough and rubbery.
- 3Always add coconut milk on low heat and stir continuously to prevent it from curdling.
- 4The pinch of sugar is a signature of Bengali cooking; it balances the flavors of the spices and the sweetness of the coconut.
- 5For a deeper flavor, you can use freshly grated coconut to make homemade coconut milk.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Replace eggs with large prawns (to make the classic Chingri Malaikari), paneer cubes, or firm tofu for a vegetarian/vegan version.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the number of green chilies or add 1/2 teaspoon of red chili powder along with the other powdered spices for more heat.
Richer GravyRicher Gravy
For an even richer gravy, you can add a paste of 8-10 soaked cashews or almonds along with the tomato puree.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Eggs are a complete protein source, providing all nine essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
Energy-Boosting Fats
The full-fat coconut milk contains Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), a type of fat that is more easily digested and converted into energy by the body compared to other fats.
Rich in Beneficial Spices
This curry uses spices like turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, contributing to overall wellness.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of Dimer Malaikari (about 2 eggs with gravy) contains approximately 380-450 calories. The calorie count can vary based on the amount of oil and the fat content of the coconut milk used.