anjappar egg fried rice recipe
Recreate the authentic Anjappar Egg Fried Rice Recipe at home! Quick, flavorful, and easy, this South Indian classic is perfect for any meal. Try it today!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
Cooked Rice (3 cups):
- Use basmati rice or short-grain rice for the best texture. Ensure the rice is cooked cooled, and slightly dry—day-old rice works perfectly as it prevents clumping.
Eggs (3 large):
- Fresh eggs are the star of the show. Whisk them lightly with a pinch of salt to enhance their flavor.
Curry Leaves (10-12):
- These add the signature South Indian aroma. Use fresh curry leaves for the most authentic flavor.
Green Chilies (2-3):
- Slit lengthwise to add a subtle heat to the dish. Adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance.
- Ginger Garlic Paste 1 tablespoon: A key ingredient to bring depth and aroma to the fried rice. You can use homemade or store-bought paste.
- Onion 1 medium, finely sliced: Adds sweetness and texture. Red onions are ideal for their robust flavor.
Seasonings and Spices
Turmeric Powder (¼ teaspoon):
- Gives a beautiful golden hue and a mild earthy flavor.
Pepper Powder (½ teaspoon):
- Adds a warm peppery kick to balance the spices.
Salt (to taste):
- Essential to bring out the flavors in every ingredient.
Chettinad Spice Mix (optional):
- If you want to recreate a true Anjappar touch add a pinch of freshly ground Chettinad spices like fennel, cinnamon, and cloves.
Cooking Base
Oil (2 tablespoons):
- Sesame oil or sunflower oil works best for frying the spices and rice. These oils enhance the dish’s authentic flavor.
Soy Sauce (1 teaspoon, optional):
- While not traditional a touch of soy sauce can add a subtle umami flavor, blending tradition with modern flair.
Optional Add-ins
Vegetables:
- Finely chopped carrots beans, or bell peppers can add color and crunch to the dish.
Spring Onions:
- Chopped green tops can be used for garnishing to add freshness.
- Cashews or Peanuts: Toasted nuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Rice
- Start with cooled, cooked rice. If you’re using freshly cooked rice, spread it on a large plate or tray and allow it to cool completely.
- Break up any clumps gently with your hands to ensure each grain is separate. This step is key for achieving the perfect fried rice texture.
Step 2: Heat the Oil and Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium heat. Sesame oil works beautifully here for its nutty aroma.
- Add the curry leaves and slit green chilies to the hot oil. Let them sizzle for a few seconds to release their flavor.
- Stir in the sliced onions and sauté until they turn translucent and slightly golden.
- Add 1 tablespoon of ginger garlic paste and sauté for another minute until fragrant. This forms the flavorful base of the dish.
Step 3: Cook the Eggs
- Push the sautéed mixture to one side of the wok to make room for the eggs.
- Pour in the whisked eggs and let them cook undisturbed for a few seconds.
- Gently scramble the eggs, mixing them with the onion and spice mixture as they cook. You’ll want soft, fluffy pieces of egg throughout the rice.
Step 4: Add the Spices and Seasonings
- Sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon of turmeric powder, ½ teaspoon of pepper powder, and salt to taste. Stir well to coat the eggs and aromatics evenly.
- For an authentic touch, you can add a pinch of freshly ground Chettinad spice mix (optional).
Step 5: Toss the Rice
- Add the cooled rice to the wok in batches, gently mixing after each addition to avoid breaking the grains.
- Stir-fry the rice with the eggs and spices for 2–3 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined.
Step 6: Optional Add-ins
- If you’re adding vegetables, stir them in at this stage. Cooked carrots, beans, or bell peppers add a delightful crunch and pop of color.
- For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle in 1 teaspoon of soy sauce (optional) and mix well.
Step 7: Final Touches
- Taste the fried rice and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add a pinch of salt or more pepper for balance.
- Garnish with chopped spring onions or a handful of crispy fried shallots for a burst of freshness and texture.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 12g