Egg Idiyappam
A quick and delicious South Indian breakfast scramble! Soft rice noodles are tossed with fluffy scrambled eggs, onions, and aromatic spices. A wholesome and satisfying meal ready in under 20 minutes.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Idiyappam
- b.If using dried idiyappam, soak it in hot water for 3-5 minutes or follow the package instructions until soft. If using fresh or ready-to-eat, steam for 2-3 minutes.
- c.Drain the water completely using a colander.
- d.While still warm, gently fluff and separate the idiyappam strands with a fork or your hands. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Temper Spices and Sauté Aromatics
- b.Heat oil in a large pan or kadai over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter (about 30 seconds).
- c.Add the urad dal and sauté for about a minute until it turns light golden brown.
- d.Add the curry leaves and slit green chillies, and sauté for another 30 seconds.
- e.Add the finely chopped onions and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
- f.Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute until the raw smell disappears.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook Masala and Scramble Eggs
- b.Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn soft and mushy.
- c.Add the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and the remaining salt. Mix well and cook the spices for 1 minute.
- d.Push the onion-tomato masala to one side of the pan. Crack the 4 eggs into the empty space.
- e.Let the eggs set for about 30 seconds, then gently scramble them. Cook until they are about 80% done.
- f.Now, gently mix the scrambled eggs with the masala on the other side of the pan.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Finish
- b.Add the prepared, shredded idiyappam to the pan with the egg masala.
- c.Sprinkle the garam masala over the top.
- d.Gently toss everything together for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the idiyappam is evenly coated and heated through. Be careful not to break the strands.
- e.Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Serve
- b.Serve the Egg Idiyappam hot as a standalone breakfast, brunch, or light meal.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1To prevent idiyappam from becoming mushy, do not over-soak or over-steam it. Drain it immediately once softened.
- 2Fluff the idiyappam strands while they are still warm, as they can clump together upon cooling.
- 3For a richer flavor, add a splash of coconut milk at the end and mix gently before garnishing.
- 4You can use leftover idiyappam from a previous meal to make this dish quickly.
- 5Adjust the number of green chillies and the amount of red chilli powder to suit your preferred spice level.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetable Egg Idiyappam
Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, and bell peppers along with the onions for added nutrition and texture.
Chettinad StyleChettinad Style
Add 1/2 teaspoon of fennel seeds (saunf) during tempering and 1 teaspoon of Chettinad masala powder along with the other spices for a more robust and aromatic flavor.
Spicy Chicken IdiyappamSpicy Chicken Idiyappam
Add 1 cup of shredded, cooked chicken along with the idiyappam in the final step for a more protein-packed meal.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
The eggs in this dish provide high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle building, tissue repair, and overall body function.
Provides Sustained Energy
Idiyappam, made from rice flour, is a good source of complex carbohydrates that provide a steady release of energy, keeping you full and active for longer.
Rich in Antioxidants
Spices like turmeric, along with onions and tomatoes, are packed with antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Egg Idiyappam is a relatively healthy and balanced meal. It provides a good mix of carbohydrates from the rice noodles for energy, high-quality protein from the eggs for muscle repair, and various vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and spices.