Egg Vepudu
A fiery and aromatic Andhra-style egg stir-fry where hard-boiled eggs are tossed in a masala of deeply browned onions and bold spices. It's a quick, protein-packed side dish that pairs wonderfully with plain rice and sambar.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Eggs
- b.Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water by at least an inch. Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes for hard-boiled eggs.
- c.Drain the hot water and immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath or run under cold water for 5 minutes to stop the cooking process. This makes them easier to peel.
- d.Once cool, peel the eggs and slice them in half lengthwise. Make a few shallow slits on the rounded side of each half.
- e.Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a wide, non-stick pan over medium heat. Gently place the egg halves, cut-side down. Sprinkle with a pinch of turmeric and red chilli powder. Fry for 1-2 minutes until the cut side is lightly golden and crisp. Carefully remove and set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté the Onion Masala Base
- b.In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tbsp of oil. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter for about 30 seconds.
- c.Add the curry leaves and slit green chillies. Sauté for another 30 seconds until the leaves are crisp and fragrant.
- d.Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt (this helps them brown faster). Sauté on medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes. Be patient and cook until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown for maximum flavor.
- e.Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, until the raw aroma disappears.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Add Spices and Finish the Vepudu
- b.Reduce the heat to low to prevent the spices from burning. Add the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and the remaining salt. Stir well and cook for 30-40 seconds until aromatic.
- c.Gently return the fried egg halves to the pan. Using a spatula, carefully toss the eggs to coat them evenly with the onion masala without breaking the yolks.
- d.Let the eggs cook in the masala for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to absorb all the flavors.
- e.Sprinkle the garam masala and freshly chopped coriander leaves over the top. Give it one final, gentle mix and turn off the heat.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve
- b.Serve the Egg Vepudu hot as a side dish with steamed rice and sambar, rasam, or dal.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1The key to an authentic Egg Vepudu is the deep caramelization of the onions. Do not rush this step; cook them until they are a rich golden-brown.
- 2Making shallow slits on the boiled eggs helps them absorb the masala flavors more effectively.
- 3Always add the powdered spices on low heat to prevent them from burning, which can make the dish bitter.
- 4Be very gentle when tossing the eggs in the final step to ensure the yolks remain intact and the halves don't crumble.
- 5For an extra layer of flavor, you can dry roast the coriander powder before adding it to the pan.
Adapt it for your goals.
Ingredient Swap
For a different flavor profile, add 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds (saunf) along with the mustard and cumin seeds during the tempering.
TextureTexture
For a richer, slightly nutty version, add 2 tablespoons of freshly grated coconut or desiccated coconut along with the spice powders and fry for a minute until fragrant.
ProteinProtein
This same vepudu masala can be used to prepare a delicious stir-fry with boiled potatoes, paneer cubes, or even mushrooms.
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, growth, and overall body function.
Rich in Essential Nutrients
This dish is packed with nutrients like Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, and choline from eggs, which are vital for bone health, brain function, and metabolism.
Anti-inflammatory Spices
Contains turmeric, which has curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound. Other spices like cumin and coriander also offer digestive and antioxidant benefits.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of Egg Vepudu, which is typically two egg halves, contains approximately 250-300 calories, primarily depending on the amount of oil used in preparation.