Kerala Egg Mappas
A classic Syrian Christian curry from Kerala featuring hard-boiled eggs simmered in a creamy, spiced coconut milk gravy. It's a comforting dish, perfect with appam or rice.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Eggs
- b.Place 8 eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water by at least an inch.
- c.Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- d.Drain the hot water and transfer the eggs to an ice bath for 5 minutes to stop the cooking process.
- e.Peel the hard-boiled eggs and make 2-3 shallow vertical slits on each one. This helps them absorb the gravy flavors. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Aromatics and Spices
- b.Heat coconut oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat.
- c.Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and crushed cardamom pods. Sauté for 30-45 seconds until they release their aroma.
- d.Add the sliced onions, chopped ginger, garlic, slit green chilies, and curry leaves.
- e.Sauté for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn soft, translucent, and light golden at the edges.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Masala Base
- b.Reduce the heat to low. Add the turmeric powder, coriander powder, and Kashmiri red chili powder.
- c.Stir continuously for 1 minute until the spices are fragrant and the raw smell is gone. Be careful not to burn them.
- d.Add the chopped tomatoes and 1 tsp of salt. Mix well and cook for 5-6 minutes, until the tomatoes break down completely and oil begins to separate from the masala.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Simmer the Gravy
- b.Pour in the thin coconut milk and the remaining 0.5 tsp of salt. Stir well, scraping any bits from the bottom of the pan.
- c.Increase the heat to medium and bring the gravy to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- d.Gently slide the slit hard-boiled eggs into the simmering gravy. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes, spooning some of the gravy over them to coat.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Finish and Garnish
- b.Reduce the heat to the absolute lowest setting.
- c.Pour in the thick coconut milk and sprinkle the garam masala powder. Stir gently to combine.
- d.Heat for just 1-2 minutes until the gravy is warmed through. Do not let it boil, as the thick coconut milk can curdle.
- e.Turn off the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Let the curry rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
- c.Serve hot with traditional pairings like Appam (lacy rice pancakes), Idiyappam (string hoppers), or with steamed rice or chapati.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic flavor, use freshly extracted coconut milk and virgin coconut oil.
- 2Making shallow slits in the eggs is crucial for them to soak up the delicious gravy.
- 3Never boil the curry after adding the thick coconut milk; it should only be gently heated to prevent it from splitting or curdling.
- 4For a tangier curry, you can add a splash of vinegar or a small piece of kodampuli (kokum) while simmering the thin coconut milk.
- 5To adjust the consistency, simmer the thin coconut milk a little longer for a thicker gravy, or add a splash of warm water for a thinner one.
- 6Sautéing the spice powders on low heat is key to releasing their aroma without burning them, which would make the curry bitter.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Replace the eggs with paneer cubes or boiled potatoes. Add the paneer or potatoes at the same stage as the eggs.
VeganVegan
Substitute eggs with firm tofu cubes (lightly pan-fried) or a can of chickpeas (rinsed and drained). Ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.
With Meat/SeafoodWith Meat/Seafood
This gravy is a fantastic base for chicken (Mappas) or fish (Meen Mappas). Sauté the protein after the onions and cook through before adding the coconut milk.
With VegetablesWith Vegetables
Add vegetables like green peas, carrots, or cauliflower florets along with the thin coconut milk and cook until tender.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Eggs are a complete protein source, providing all the essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
The curry is rich in spices like turmeric (containing curcumin), ginger, and garlic, which are known for their potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to combat oxidative stress.
Source of Healthy Fats
Coconut milk provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of fat that is more easily digested and converted into energy by the body compared to other saturated fats.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it can be a healthy dish. Eggs are a great source of protein and vitamins. Coconut milk contains healthy fats (MCTs), and the spices like turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties. To make it healthier, use a moderate amount of coconut oil and pair it with whole grains.