Published on

Egg Kadai - A Spicy Delight from North India with a Twist

Authors
  • avatar
    Name
    ChefPandas
    Twitter

🍲 About This Dish

Egg Kadai is a flavorful and aromatic dish hailing from North India, known for its spicy kick and rich flavors. This dish has a rich cultural history in North Indian cuisine, where the combination of eggs and robust spices creates a delectable culinary experience. It is often enjoyed with naan or steamed rice, making it a versatile dish for various occasions.

🌶️ Ingredients Overview

  • Eggs (Ande)
  • Tomatoes (Tamatar)
  • Onions (Pyaz)
  • Bell Peppers (Shimla Mirch)
  • Ginger (Adrak)
  • Garlic (Lehsun)
  • Green Chilies (Hari Mirch)
  • Cilantro (Dhania)
  • Garam Masala
  • Turmeric Powder (Haldi)
  • Coriander Powder (Dhania Powder)
  • Cumin Seeds (Jeera)
  • Red Chili Powder (Lal Mirch Powder)
  • Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves)
  • Oil
  • Salt

✨ What Makes It Special

In North India, Egg Kadai can have variations in spice levels and ingredients based on regional preferences. Some regions may add yogurt or cream to enhance the richness of the gravy, while others might use a tandoori twist by marinating the eggs before adding them to the curry. These regional nuances add depth to the dish, reflecting the diverse culinary landscape of India.

📝 Ingredients

  • 4 boiled eggs, halved
  • 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1-inch ginger, grated
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 green chilies, chopped
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tbsp kasuri methi
  • 3 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste

🥄 Spice Blend (Masala)

To make the spice blend, dry roast and grind:

  • 1 tsp coriander seeds
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1-inch cinnamon stick
  • 3-4 cloves
  • 2-3 black peppercorns

👨‍🍳 Preparation Method

  1. Heat oil in a kadai or wok and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
  2. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Add ginger, garlic, and green chilies. Cook until the raw smell disappears.
  4. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
  5. Mix in turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and the prepared spice blend. Cook until the oil separates.
  6. Add diced bell peppers and cook for a few minutes.
  7. Gently add the boiled eggs and sprinkle garam masala and kasuri methi.
  8. Cook for another 5-7 minutes on low heat.
  9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

⏰ Timing Guide

  • Preparation: 15 minutes
  • Cooking: 25 minutes
  • Total: 40 minutes

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Egg Kadai pairs perfectly with butter naan, roti, or steamed rice. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon for an added burst of flavor. Serve hot for the best experience.

💭 Chef's Notes

For a creamier texture, you can add a dollop of yogurt or cream towards the end of cooking. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference to enjoy the perfect balance of flavors in this dish.

📦 Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain the gravy's consistency.

Enjoy the authentic flavors of Egg Kadai, a dish that encapsulates the essence of North Indian cuisine with its bold spices and hearty ingredients.