Papdi per Eedu
A beloved Parsi breakfast classic where sunny-side-up eggs are gently cooked on a bed of crispy, golden potato straws. The runny yolk mingles with the crunchy potatoes, while a sprinkle of spices and fresh herbs brings every bite to life. Simple yet indulgent, it is the ultimate comfort dish served straight from the pan to your plate.
For 2 servings
- prep · ~10 min
Prepare the potato straws.
1.Peel the potatoes and cut them into very thin matchsticks, about 3-4 cm long.2.Soak the potato matchsticks in cold water for 5 minutes to remove excess starch.3.Drain thoroughly and pat completely dry with paper towels. Moisture will ruin the crispness.TIPThe thinner the matchsticks, the crispier they become. Use a sharp knife or a julienne peeler for best results. - fry · ~12 min
Fry the potatoes until golden.
1.Heat oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat.2.Add a handful of potato matchsticks in a single layer. Do not overcrowd.3.Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until evenly golden brown and crisp.4.Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining potatoes.TIPFry in small batches so the temperature stays consistent. Cold oil makes soggy potatoes. - saute · ~3 min
Build the base with onions and spices.
1.Discard excess oil from the pan, leaving just enough to coat the surface.2.Add ghee and let it melt over medium heat.3.Add chopped onion and sauté for 2 minutes until translucent.4.Add green chili, grated ginger, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. - assemble · ~1 min
Spread the crispy potatoes in the pan.
1.Return all the fried potato straws to the pan with the sautéed onion mixture.2.Toss gently to coat the potatoes with the spices.3.Spread the potatoes into an even layer covering the pan bottom.4.Create two slight wells in the potato straws for the eggs. - fry · ~5 min
Crack the eggs over the potato bed.
1.Crack one egg carefully into each well without breaking the yolk.2.Sprinkle salt and crushed black pepper over the eggs.3.Cover the pan with a lid and cook on low heat for 4-5 minutes.4.Cook until the egg whites are fully set but the yolks are still runny.TIPResist the urge to lift the lid too often. The trapped steam is what gently sets the top of the eggs. - garnish
Garnish and serve immediately.
1.Scatter chopped coriander leaves over the eggs.2.Serve hot straight from the pan with pav or crusty bread on the side.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Soak the potato matchsticks in cold water for 5 minutes to remove excess starch, which ensures maximum crispness when fried.
- 2Pat the potatoes bone-dry after soaking; any residual moisture will make them soggy in the hot oil.
- 3Fry the potato straws in small batches over medium-high heat — overcrowding drops the oil temperature and leads to limp potatoes.
- 4Use a non-stick pan and a lid that fits tightly to trap steam, which gently cooks the egg tops while keeping yolks runny.
- 5For extra flavour, let the onions caramelize slightly before adding the spices — it deepens the dish's richness.
- 6Serve immediately from the pan; the crunchy potato base softens quickly as it sits.
- 7To make ahead, fry the potato straws separately and store in an airtight container, then assemble and cook eggs just before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herby Upgrade
Add a handful of fresh curry leaves or chopped mint along with the coriander for a fragrant, layered herb note that complements the potatoes and eggs beautifully.
Cheesy DelightCheesy Delight
Sprinkle grated cheddar or mozzarella over the eggs during the last minute of cooking for a melty, indulgent twist that adds richness and a golden crust.
Spice ForwardSpice-Forward
Increase the green chili to two and add a pinch of garam masala with the red chili powder for a warmer, more aromatic heat profile.
Vegetable LoadedVegetable-Loaded
Sauté 1/4 cup each of finely chopped bell peppers and tomatoes with the onions to add sweetness, colour, and extra vegetables to the base.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Eggs provide high-quality protein that supports muscle repair and keeps you full longer, making this a satisfying breakfast option.
Good Source of Potassium
Potatoes supply potassium, which aids in maintaining healthy blood pressure and nerve function.
Anti-Inflammatory Spices
Turmeric and ginger contain curcumin and gingerol respectively, compounds known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Healthy Fats from Ghee
Ghee is rich in butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that supports gut health and aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel before frying to prevent them from steaming instead of crisping.
