Anda Changezi
A rich and creamy Mughlai egg curry where golden-fried boiled eggs are simmered in a luscious, tangy gravy made with tomatoes, cashews, and cream. A royal treat that's perfect with naan or roti.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Fry Eggs & Prepare Cashew Paste
- b.Take the hard-boiled and peeled eggs. Use a fork or toothpick to prick them all over. This prevents them from bursting in hot oil and helps them absorb the gravy.
- c.Heat 4 tbsp of oil in a kadai or pan over medium heat. Carefully slide in the pricked eggs and shallow-fry for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they develop a light golden, slightly crisp layer. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- d.Drain the soaked cashews and grind them with 2-3 tablespoons of water in a small blender jar to a very smooth, fine paste. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Masala Base
- b.In the same kadai, add 3 tbsp of ghee. Once it's hot, add the bay leaf, green cardamoms, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for 30-40 seconds until the spices become fragrant.
- c.Add the finely chopped onions and sauté on medium heat for 7-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn soft and golden brown.
- d.Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until its raw aroma disappears.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Gravy
- b.Lower the heat and add the turmeric powder, Kashmiri red chilli powder, and coriander powder. Stir for 30 seconds to toast the spices without burning them.
- c.Pour in the tomato puree and add salt. Mix well. Cook on medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the masala thickens and you see oil separating at the edges.
- d.Stir in the prepared cashew paste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously as the paste can stick to the bottom of the pan.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Simmer
- b.Reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Add the whisked curd, stirring constantly and vigorously for 1-2 minutes to prevent it from curdling. Cook until it is well incorporated.
- c.Pour in 1 cup of warm water, stir to combine, and bring the gravy to a gentle simmer.
- d.Gently place the fried eggs into the gravy. Cover the kadai and let it simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, allowing the eggs to soak in the flavors of the curry.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Finish and Serve
- b.Uncover the pan. Crush the kasuri methi between your palms and sprinkle it over the curry. Add the garam masala and fresh cream. Stir gently to combine.
- c.Cook for just one more minute, then turn off the heat. Do not over-boil after adding cream.
- d.Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Let the curry rest for 5-10 minutes for the flavors to meld. Serve hot with naan, roti, or jeera rice.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Pricking the boiled eggs is a crucial step to prevent them from bursting in hot oil and helps them absorb flavor.
- 2Frying the eggs gives them a wonderful chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy gravy.
- 3Always add the whisked curd on low heat while stirring continuously to ensure a smooth, non-curdled gravy.
- 4For an even richer flavor, you can use a paste of fried onions (birista) instead of sautéing raw onions.
- 5Crush the kasuri methi between your palms before adding to release its maximum aroma.
- 6The gravy thickens as it cools, so adjust the consistency with a little warm water if needed before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian/Vegan
Replace eggs with paneer cubes (Paneer Changezi) or boiled potatoes (Aloo Changezi). For a vegan version, use firm tofu instead of eggs, coconut cream instead of dairy cream/curd, and oil instead of ghee.
Richer GravyRicher Gravy
For a more decadent, restaurant-style gravy, add a paste of 1/4 cup of fried onions (birista) along with the tomato puree. This adds a deep, sweet, and complex flavor.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the heat by adding 2-3 slit green chillies along with the ginger-garlic paste. You can also add a pinch of black pepper powder along with the garam masala at the end.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Eggs are a complete protein source, providing all nine essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Rich in Healthy Fats
The use of cashews and ghee contributes monounsaturated and saturated fats, which provide energy, support brain health, and aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Boosts Flavor and Immunity
Spices like turmeric, ginger, and garlic are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help support the immune system while adding incredible depth of flavor.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Anda Changezi (approximately 2 eggs and gravy) contains around 450-550 calories. The exact count depends on the amount of oil, ghee, and cream used.