Iranian Baida Curry Recipe: A Creamy Egg Curry with a Rich, Flavorful Gravy
The Iranian Baida Curry is a classic, rich, and creamy egg curry that offers comfort in every bite. This dish is an ideal lunch option for those who enjoy the delicious fusion of roasted spices, ground nuts, and the soft, flavorful taste of boiled eggs. The key to this curry lies in its unique, velvety gravy, made from a blend of roasted almonds, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, and freshly grated coconut, all ground together to create a luscious paste that infuses the curry with deep, aromatic flavors. The curry is then simmered with basic yet aromatic spices, and the boiled eggs are added in at the end, allowing them to soak in the rich flavors of the gravy. Serve this curry with soft pav (bread) or steamed rice for a satisfying and hearty meal.
Ingredients for Iranian Baida Curry
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Egg | 4 |
| Onion, chopped | 1 |
| Jaggery | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | As needed |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 1 sprig |
| Fresh coconut, grated | 1/4 cup |
| Coriander (Dhania) Seeds | 2 tablespoons |
| Dry Red Chilli | 3 |
| Sesame seeds (Til seeds) | 1 tablespoon |
| Poppy seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Ginger, chopped | 1 inch piece |
| Garlic, chopped | 5 cloves |
| Whole Almonds (Badam) | 8 |
Preparation and Cooking Time
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Serves | 4 servings |
Instructions for Iranian Baida Curry
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Boil the Eggs: Begin by boiling the eggs. Place them in a pot, ensuring they are fully immersed in water. Boil the eggs for about 15 minutes or until fully cooked. Once the eggs are ready, set them aside to cool. After cooling, carefully peel off the shells.
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Roast and Grind the Spices: In a pan, dry roast the following ingredients for the curry’s paste: grated coconut, coriander seeds, dry red chilies, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, ginger, garlic, and whole almonds. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once roasted, allow the spices to cool, then grind them into a smooth, thick paste using a little water. Set this paste aside for later use.
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Prepare the Gravy: Heat oil in a kadai (deep frying pan) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until the onions turn golden brown and fragrant. Add the ground masala paste to the onions and sauté it for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Cook the Curry: Add 1 cup of water to the sautéed mixture, followed by the jaggery and a pinch of salt. Stir well and bring it to a boil. Adjust the salt as needed for your taste.
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Add the Boiled Eggs: Once the curry has come to a boil, carefully de-shell the boiled eggs and cut them into halves. Gently drop the egg halves into the curry, allowing them to absorb the flavors. Let the curry simmer for 2 more minutes.
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Finishing Touch: Turn off the heat and garnish the curry with fresh coriander leaves. This adds a fresh pop of color and enhances the overall aroma.
Serving Suggestions
For the best experience, serve Iranian Baida Curry with a side of garlic naan or chapathi, complemented by steamed rice. To complete the meal, pair the curry with a refreshing Moong Sprouts Salad, tossed with freshly grated carrots and chopped coriander. The mix of textures and flavors will bring out the comforting essence of this Iranian-inspired dish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 250 |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
Why You’ll Love Iranian Baida Curry
This egg curry is a perfect balance of spices and creamy richness. The combination of roasted nuts, seeds, and coconut in the gravy gives it a distinct, comforting flavor, while the boiled eggs soak up all the delightful tastes. The sweetness of jaggery enhances the depth of the curry, making it both savory and subtly sweet at the same time. Whether you’re looking for a weekend lunch or a special family meal, this curry is sure to impress!
With its authentic Middle Eastern roots and use of familiar ingredients, Iranian Baida Curry is a dish that’s both easy to prepare and satisfyingly delicious. Enjoy this hearty, aromatic curry for lunch, paired with your favorite Indian breads or rice dishes for a comforting meal experience.
