Egg Lazeez
A rich and creamy Mughlai egg curry where boiled eggs are simmered in a luscious gravy of onions, cashews, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a special meal with naan or jeera rice.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Preparation
- b.Cut the peeled, hard-boiled eggs in half lengthwise. For extra flavor, you can shallow fry them in 1 tsp of oil with a pinch of red chili powder until lightly golden. Set aside.
- c.Drain the soaked cashews. In a blender, combine the cashews and roughly chopped onions with 2-3 tablespoons of water. Blend until you have a very smooth, fine paste.
- d.Puree the tomatoes in the same blender (no need to wash) and set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Temper the Spices
- b.Heat oil and butter in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat.
- c.Once hot, add the whole spices: cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, green cardamoms, and cloves.
- d.Sauté for about 30-40 seconds until the spices become fragrant and the cumin seeds splutter.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Gravy Base
- b.Add the prepared onion-cashew paste to the pan. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
- c.Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the paste turns a light golden brown and the raw smell of onions is gone.
- d.Add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Build the Masala
- b.Add the powdered spices: turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Stir well and cook for 30 seconds.
- c.Pour in the tomato puree and add salt. Mix everything together.
- d.Cook the masala for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and you see oil separating from the sides of the pan.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Simmer the Gravy
- b.Add 1.5 cups of warm water to the pan. Stir well, scraping the bottom, to create a smooth gravy.
- c.Bring the gravy to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Finish and Serve
- b.Reduce the heat to the absolute lowest. Stir in the fresh cream, crushed kasuri methi, and garam masala. Mix gently until combined. Do not boil the gravy after adding cream.
- c.Carefully place the halved boiled eggs into the gravy, cut-side up.
- d.Let the curry simmer very gently for 2-3 minutes for the eggs to warm through and absorb the flavors.
- e.Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the smoothest gravy, use a high-powered blender for the onion-cashew paste.
- 2Cooking the onion-cashew paste on low heat is crucial. Rushing this step will result in a raw taste.
- 3Using warm water to adjust the gravy's consistency helps maintain the temperature and prevents the cooking process from slowing down.
- 4Always add cream on the lowest heat setting and stir gently to prevent it from splitting or curdling.
- 5Crush the kasuri methi between your palms before adding it to the curry to release its maximum aroma and flavor.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan Version
Replace eggs with pan-fried tofu or boiled potatoes. Use oil instead of butter and substitute fresh cream with a smooth cashew cream or coconut cream.
Nut Free VersionNut-Free Version
Replace cashews with 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds (khus khus) or melon seeds (magaz), soaked and ground into a paste.
Richer GravyRicher Gravy
Increase the amount of fresh cream to 1/4 cup or add a tablespoon of char magaz (melon seed) paste along with the onion-cashew paste for a more decadent gravy.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Eggs are a complete protein source, providing all the essential amino acids required for muscle building, tissue repair, and overall body function.
Provides Healthy Fats
Cashews contribute monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health by helping to reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
This dish contains essential nutrients like Vitamin D and B12 from eggs, and minerals like magnesium and zinc from cashews.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Spices like turmeric (containing curcumin) and ginger have natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that support overall wellness.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Egg Lazeez contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil, butter, and cream used. It's a rich dish best enjoyed on special occasions.