Egg Puttu
A savory twist on the classic Kerala breakfast. Soft, steamed rice flour cylinders are layered with a flavorful, spicy scrambled egg masala. It's a wholesome and delicious one-pot meal that's perfect to start your day.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Puttu Flour
- b.In a large mixing bowl, add the puttu podi (rice flour) and 0.75 tsp of salt. Mix well.
- c.Gradually sprinkle water, a little at a time, while mixing the flour with your fingertips. The goal is to moisten the flour evenly without forming lumps.
- d.Continue until the flour reaches a crumbly, breadcrumb-like texture. To test, take a small amount in your fist and press; it should hold its shape but crumble easily when pressed again.
- e.Cover the bowl and let the prepared flour rest for 15 minutes. This allows the flour to absorb the moisture properly.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook the Spicy Egg Masala
- b.Heat coconut oil in a pan or kadai over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and green chilies. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
- c.Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for about 1 minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- d.Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn soft and mushy.
- e.Reduce the heat and add the spice powders: turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and black pepper powder, along with the remaining 0.5 tsp of salt. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- f.Crack the eggs into the pan. Let them set for 30 seconds before scrambling with a spatula. Mix well with the masala and cook for 2-3 minutes until the eggs are cooked through but still moist.
- g.Turn off the heat, stir in the chopped coriander leaves, and set the egg masala aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble the Puttu
- b.Fill the base of the puttu maker (puttu kutti) with about 2-3 cups of water and bring it to a boil.
- c.Place the perforated disc at the bottom of the cylindrical steamer (puttu kutram).
- d.Start by adding a 1-inch layer of grated coconut (about 2 tbsp).
- e.Gently spoon in a 2-inch layer of the prepared puttu flour (about 3-4 tbsp). Do not press it down.
- f.Add a generous layer of the egg masala (about 2-3 tbsp).
- g.Repeat the layers of puttu flour and egg masala, finishing with a final layer of puttu flour.
- h.Top the cylinder with a final 1-inch layer of grated coconut.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Steam and Serve
- b.Close the lid of the cylinder and place it securely on top of the boiling water pot.
- c.Steam on medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes. The puttu is cooked when a steady stream of steam escapes from the vents on the lid.
- d.Carefully remove the hot cylinder from the pot using a kitchen towel. Let it rest for 1 minute.
- e.Gently push the steamed puttu out from the bottom using the provided rod or the back of a long spoon onto a serving plate.
- f.Repeat the assembly and steaming process for the remaining flour and masala. Serve hot.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1The texture of the wet flour is key. It must be crumbly, not a paste. Add water very slowly to avoid lumps.
- 2Do not pack the layers tightly into the puttu cylinder. Keeping them loose allows steam to circulate and cook the puttu evenly.
- 3Using coconut oil for the masala gives the dish an authentic Kerala flavor.
- 4For a softer puttu, you can run the prepared moist flour through a mixer grinder for a few seconds to break up any small lumps.
- 5Ensure the water in the base pot is boiling before you place the cylinder on top for steaming.
Adapt it for your goals.
Meat Lover's Puttu
Replace the egg masala with a dry-style minced chicken or beef masala (kheema).
Vegetable PuttuVegetable Puttu
For a vegetarian version, substitute the egg masala with a stir-fry of finely chopped carrots, beans, peas, and potatoes with the same spices.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the amount of green chilies and black pepper powder, or add a pinch of crushed red chili flakes to the egg masala for extra heat.
Ragi PuttuRagi Puttu
For a healthier alternative, use a mix of 50% puttu podi and 50% ragi (finger millet) flour.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Eggs are a complete protein source, providing all essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. This dish is ideal for a post-workout meal or a protein-packed start to the day.
Provides Sustained Energy
The rice flour in puttu is a complex carbohydrate that digests slowly, providing a steady release of energy and keeping you full and active for longer periods.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Both coconut oil and grated coconut contain Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), a type of healthy fat that is easily digested and can provide a quick source of energy.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Egg Puttu contains approximately 450-480 calories, making it a substantial and energy-rich breakfast. The exact count can vary based on the amount of coconut oil and grated coconut used.
