Crispy Outside, Tender Inside! Flavorful Baked Egg Curry
Baek Jong-won’s Tip-Filled Baked Egg Curry: Simple Recipe
It doesn’t have to be a special occasion! Enjoy the fantastic harmony of crispy baked eggs and fragrant curry right at home. This recipe details how to achieve a deep, rich flavor with simple ingredients, inspired by Baek Jong-won’s style.
Baked Egg Curry
- 8 hard-boiled eggs (2 per person)
- 5 Tbsp cooking oil
- 1 large onion
- 1/2 Tbsp all-purpose onion sauce (optional, for enhanced flavor)
- 3 cups water (approx. 550ml)
- 1 packet curry powder or solid curry
- 1 Tbsp finely ground red pepper powder (optional, for spiciness)
- 1 Tbsp cumin powder (optional, for exotic flavor)
- Pinch of black pepper
- Pinch of parsley flakes (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the baked eggs, a key element of this delicious curry. Place 8 hard-boiled eggs in a pot filled with ample water. Gently add the eggs to boiling water to prevent cracking, and add a little salt and vinegar to make peeling easier. For a fully cooked egg, boil for about 15 minutes. If you prefer soft-boiled, about 10 minutes will suffice.
Step 2
Immediately after boiling, place the eggs in cold water to cool them down. This step is crucial for easily peeling the shells without damaging the egg whites. Once completely cooled, peel the eggs and set them aside.
Step 3
Since we’re focusing on eggs and onions without other vegetables, use a large onion. You can slice it thinly or dice it into bite-sized pieces, depending on your preference for texture.
Step 4
You can use either powdered or solid curry. Solid curry is generally known to offer a richer and deeper flavor. I’m using a packet of ‘Kitchen of India Butter Chicken Curry’ for its excellent aroma. Feel free to use any curry you have on hand.
Step 5
Now, let’s get started on making the baked egg curry! Heat a pan and generously add 5 tablespoons of cooking oil. Place the boiled eggs in the hot oil and fry them until they are golden brown. Frying them until they achieve a slightly charred appearance is key to getting a crispy exterior and a tender interior.
Step 6
See how golden brown and appetizing the egg whites look? When fried like this, the eggs develop a flavor reminiscent of fried meat. This aroma, combined with the sautéed onions, will significantly deepen the curry’s taste. Once the eggs are beautifully browned, add the sliced onions and sauté them together.
Step 7
Sautéing the onions until they caramelize will bring out their sweetness and depth, but it’s also delicious if they’re just lightly browned. If you desire a spicier and more exotic flavor, add 1 tablespoon each of cumin powder and finely ground red pepper powder at this stage and stir-fry over low heat. Important tip: Avoid adding red pepper powder to water, as it can result in a raw taste. Always sauté it in oil first before adding water. (I omitted the cumin and red pepper powder as my chosen curry was already quite flavorful.)
Step 8
Once the onions and spices (if used) are well sautéed, pour in 3 cups of water (approximately 550ml). The water level should be enough to about half-cover the eggs. If you have all-purpose onion sauce, adding 1/2 tablespoon will significantly enhance the umami. It’s fine to skip if you don’t have it.
Step 9
When the water comes to a rolling boil, add the curry powder or solid curry and dissolve it well. Stir to ensure there are no lumps, and simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 10
If the curry tastes too strong or you prefer a milder flavor, adding a little milk is a great option. Adjust the amount of curry powder and water to achieve your perfect consistency.
Step 11
After adding the curry and adjusting the consistency, let it simmer gently over medium-low heat for a few more minutes. Taste and add a pinch of black pepper if needed. Your flavorful baked egg curry is ready! Chef Park Sol-mi adds a touch of ketchup at the end; its tanginess balances the richness of butter, adding a refreshing and clean finish. If cooking for children, consider adding butter and ketchup.
Step 12
Serve the baked egg curry attractively in a bowl, topping it with the nicely browned eggs. Doesn’t it look appetizing? The mild eggs complement the deep flavors of the curry, offering a unique dining experience. Even without other vegetables, baked eggs and sautéed onions create a wonderfully satisfying meal.
Step 13
When you’re short on meat or vegetables, or haven’t shopped much, you can still create a rich and unique curry using just eggs and onions. Baked egg curry is a fantastic way to prepare a delightful meal with minimal ingredients. Be sure to try it!
Step 14
Here’s an extra tip for enjoying your baked egg curry even more! When mixing the curry with rice, a drizzle of mayonnaise can add a wonderful creaminess and nutty flavor, offering a delightful twist. Enjoy a wonderful meal with your family using Baek Jong-won’s baked egg curry recipe 🙂
