Kashmiri Egg Masala
Hard-boiled eggs are fried until golden and then simmered in a fragrant, yogurt-based gravy spiced with fennel and ginger. A classic dish from the Kashmir valley, perfect with steamed rice.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare and Fry the Eggs
- b.Take the hard-boiled and peeled eggs. Using a fork or toothpick, prick them all over. This crucial step allows the gravy to penetrate the eggs.
- c.Heat 2 tablespoons of mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat. Wait until it's slightly smoking to reduce its pungency.
- d.Carefully slide the pricked eggs into the hot oil. Shallow fry for 4-5 minutes, turning them gently, until they develop a golden-brown, slightly blistered, and chewy skin. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Aromatics and Onions
- b.In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of mustard oil. Heat it over medium flame.
- c.Add the whole spices: cloves, green cardamom, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for 30 seconds until they become fragrant.
- d.Add the hing, followed by the finely chopped onions. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are deeply golden brown. This caramelization is key to the gravy's flavor and color.
- e.Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until its raw aroma disappears.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Create the Yogurt-Spice Base
- b.In a separate bowl, whisk the curd until it's completely smooth. Add all the powdered spices: Kashmiri red chilli powder, fennel powder, dry ginger powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly to form a smooth paste.
- c.Reduce the pan's heat to the absolute lowest setting. Slowly pour the yogurt-spice mixture into the pan, stirring continuously and vigorously. This prevents the yogurt from curdling.
- d.Continue to cook on low heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the masala thickens and you see oil separating at the edges.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Simmer the Curry
- b.Pour in 1.5 cups of warm water and stir well to combine everything into a smooth gravy. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- c.Carefully place the fried eggs back into the gravy.
- d.Cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let the curry simmer for 8-10 minutes. This allows the eggs to absorb all the aromatic flavors.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Turn off the heat. Sprinkle the garam masala over the curry and give it a gentle stir.
- c.Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- d.Let the Kashmiri Egg Masala rest for at least 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve hot with steamed rice or naan.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Pricking the eggs is essential; it ensures the masala penetrates deep inside for maximum flavor.
- 2Always add the whisked yogurt on low heat while stirring constantly to prevent it from splitting or curdling.
- 3Frying the eggs gives them a wonderful, slightly chewy texture that holds up well in the curry.
- 4For the most authentic color and flavor, use high-quality Kashmiri red chili powder, which is known for its vibrant color and mild heat.
- 5Using mustard oil provides a traditional, pungent flavor characteristic of Kashmiri cuisine. Heat it until it just starts to smoke to mellow its sharpness.
Adapt it for your goals.
Creamier Gravy
For a richer, creamier texture, add 1 tablespoon of cashew paste along with the yogurt-spice mixture.
With PotatoesWith Potatoes
Add 4-5 boiled and fried baby potatoes along with the eggs for a more substantial curry.
Vegan VersionVegan Version
Replace eggs with firm tofu cubes (fried until golden) or boiled chickpeas. Use a plant-based yogurt and a neutral oil instead of mustard oil if preferred.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Add 1-2 slit green chillies along with the ginger-garlic paste for an extra kick of heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Eggs are a complete protein source, providing all the essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Promotes Gut Health
The use of yogurt (curd) introduces beneficial probiotics to the dish, which can help improve digestion and maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
Rich in Anti-inflammatory Spices
Spices like turmeric (containing curcumin), ginger, and cloves are known for their powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Kashmiri Egg Masala contains approximately 330-360 calories. This is an estimate and can vary based on the size of the eggs, the type of curd, and the amount of oil used.