Hariyali Egg Masala
A vibrant and flavorful North Indian curry where hard-boiled eggs are simmered in a rich, green gravy made from cilantro, mint, and aromatic spices. This delicious dish is perfect with roti or rice for a satisfying meal.
For 4 servings
7 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Boil and Prepare the Eggs
- b.Place eggs in a saucepan, cover with cold water, and bring to a rolling boil. Cook for 10 minutes to hard-boil.
- c.Immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and make peeling easier.
- d.Once cooled, peel the eggs and make 2-3 shallow slits on each one. This helps them absorb the gravy flavors. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Create the Hariyali Paste
- b.In a blender jar, combine the coriander leaves, mint leaves, spinach (if using), green chilies, ginger, and garlic.
- c.Add the whisked curd and blend until you have a smooth, vibrant green paste. Add a tablespoon of water only if necessary to aid blending.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sauté Aromatics and Build the Base
- b.Heat oil in a wide pan or kadai over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, bay leaf, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- c.Add the finely chopped onions and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and golden brown.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook the Masala
- b.Stir in the tomato puree and cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens and you see oil separating at the edges.
- c.Add the turmeric powder and coriander powder. Sauté for another minute until the raw smell of the spices disappears.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Cook the Green Gravy
- b.Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the prepared hariyali paste. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the paste darkens slightly and oil begins to glisten on the surface. Do not overcook.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Simmer the Curry
- b.Add 1 cup of water and salt to the pan. Mix well to combine and bring the gravy to a gentle simmer.
- c.Carefully place the slit hard-boiled eggs into the gravy.
- d.Cover the pan and let it simmer for 5-6 minutes, allowing the eggs to absorb the flavors of the curry.
- 7
Step 7
- a.Finish and Serve
- b.Turn off the heat. Crush the kasuri methi between your palms and sprinkle it over the curry along with the garam masala and fresh lemon juice. Stir gently to combine.
- c.Let it rest for 2 minutes before serving.
- d.Serve hot with roti, naan, or steamed basmati rice.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a richer texture, lightly pan-fry the boiled eggs in 1 teaspoon of oil until pale golden before adding them to the gravy.
- 2To maintain the vibrant green color, avoid overcooking the hariyali paste. Cook just until the raw smell is gone.
- 3Blanch the spinach for 30 seconds in hot water and then plunge it into ice water before blending to get an even brighter green color.
- 4For a creamier, restaurant-style gravy, add 2 tablespoons of cashew paste or fresh cream at the end with the garam masala.
- 5Always crush kasuri methi between your palms before adding it to release its maximum aroma and flavor.
Adapt it for your goals.
Paneer Hariyali
Replace the boiled eggs with 250g of paneer cubes. Lightly pan-fry the paneer before adding it to the gravy during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
Chicken HariyaliChicken Hariyali
Use 500g of boneless chicken pieces instead of eggs. Sauté the chicken after the onions are browned, then proceed with the recipe, ensuring the chicken is cooked through.
Vegan Hariyali CurryVegan Hariyali Curry
Substitute eggs with firm tofu or boiled potatoes. Use a plant-based yogurt (like coconut or soy) for the green paste and omit any cream.
Mushroom HariyaliMushroom Hariyali
Add 200g of sliced mushrooms along with the tomato puree and cook until they are tender.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Eggs are a complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids required for muscle building, tissue repair, and overall body function.
Rich in Antioxidants
The base of this curry is made from fresh coriander, mint, and spinach, which are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that help protect the body against cellular damage.
Boosts Immunity
Key ingredients like ginger, garlic, and turmeric are known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help strengthen the immune system.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Hariyali Egg Masala (2 eggs with gravy) contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the amount of oil and any added cream.