Muttai Roast
A classic Kerala breakfast dish where hard-boiled eggs are nestled in a thick, spicy, and fragrant onion-tomato masala. Perfectly paired with appam or chapati, this dish is packed with flavor and comes together quickly.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 30 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. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- c.Once boiling, turn off the heat, cover the pan, and let the eggs stand for 10-12 minutes.
- d.Drain the hot water and transfer the eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for 5 minutes.
- e.Peel the eggs carefully and make 2-3 shallow vertical slits on each one. This helps them absorb the masala.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Shallow-Fry the Eggs
- b.Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
- c.Add 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder and 1/2 teaspoon of Kashmiri red chilli powder to the oil. Swirl to combine.
- d.Carefully place the slit boiled eggs in the pan. Gently toss for 2-3 minutes until they are lightly golden and have a slightly blistered skin. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Build the Masala Base
- b.In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. Once hot, add 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- c.Add 1/2 teaspoon of fennel seeds and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
- d.Add the thinly sliced onions, a pinch of salt (to help them cook faster), and sauté on medium-low heat for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Be patient; the onions should be deeply golden brown and caramelized for the best flavor.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook the Aromatics and Spices
- b.Add the slit green chilies, curry leaves, and 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
- c.Add the finely chopped tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, until they turn soft, mushy, and oil begins to separate from the mixture.
- d.Reduce the heat to low. Add the remaining 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chilli powder, 1 teaspoon coriander powder, and salt to taste. Stir continuously for 1 minute until the spices are aromatic.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Combine and Finish
- b.Pour in 1/2 cup of hot water, mix well, and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer.
- c.Gently place the shallow-fried eggs back into the masala. Coat them well with the gravy.
- d.Sprinkle 3/4 teaspoon of garam masala over the top. Cover the pan and simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, allowing the eggs to absorb the flavors.
- e.Turn off the heat and let the Muttai Roast rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to deepen.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1The key to a delicious Muttai Roast is patiently caramelizing the onions until they are deep golden brown. Do not rush this step.
- 2Using coconut oil provides the most authentic Kerala flavor, but another neutral vegetable oil can be substituted.
- 3Making slits in the boiled eggs is crucial for allowing the masala to penetrate and flavor the eggs from the inside.
- 4For a richer gravy, you can add 2-3 tablespoons of thick coconut milk at the end and simmer for a minute before turning off the heat.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicier Version
Increase the amount of green chilies and add 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper powder along with the other spice powders for extra heat.
Creamy Coconut VersionCreamy Coconut Version
After adding the eggs back to the pan, stir in 1/4 cup of thick coconut milk and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes. Do not boil after adding coconut milk.
Vegan AlternativeVegan Alternative
Substitute the eggs with firm tofu cubes or boiled potatoes. Pan-fry them in spiced oil just like the eggs before adding to the masala.
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.
Rich in Antioxidants
The base of onions, tomatoes, and spices like turmeric provides a variety of antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Boosts Metabolism
Spices used in the masala, such as chilli powder and garam masala, contain compounds that can give a temporary boost to your metabolism.
Frequently asked questions
Muttai Roast is traditionally served with Appam (lacy rice pancakes), Idiyappam (string hoppers), Parotta, or Chapatis. It also pairs well with plain rice or ghee rice.