Step 1: Whisk the EggsCrack the eggs into a bowl and add a pinch of salt. Whisk well until smooth and fully combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the AromaticsHeat the butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and golden brown. Add the green chillies, ginger paste and garlic paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Masala BaseAdd the turmeric, red chilli powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, salt and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.Add the tomatoes and cook on medium low for 8 - 10 minutes until until the tomatoes have softened completely and the mixture becomes thick and jammy.
Step 4: Add the EggsReduce the heat to low. Pour the whisked eggs into the pan and gently fold them through the tomato mixture. Continue stirring slowly, scraping the bottom of the pan as the eggs begin to set.
Step 5: Keep It SoftCook until the eggs are softly scrambled and still look slightly loose. Remove from the heat immediately. The residual heat will continue cooking the eggs to the perfect consistency.
Step 6: ServeServe immediately while hot.
Notes
Expert Tips
Don't Overcook the Eggs The secret to great Akuri is texture. The eggs should remain soft, creamy and slightly loose.Remove From the Heat Early The eggs will continue cooking from residual heat, so take them off the hob before they look fully cooked.Cook the Tomatoes Properly Allow the tomatoes to break down completely before adding the eggs. This creates a richer, more flavourful base.Use Fresh Eggs Because eggs are the star ingredient, good quality fresh eggs make a noticeable difference.Serve Immediately Akuri is at its absolute best when eaten fresh from the pan.
Variations
Extra Spicy AkuriAdd an extra green chilli or increase the chilli powder.Cheese AkuriStir through a handful of grated cheese just before serving.Herb-Filled AkuriIncrease the amount of fresh coriander for a brighter finish.Methi AkuriAdd a small handful of fresh fenugreek leaves for an earthy flavour.Creamy AkuriA splash of cream added at the end makes the eggs even richer.
What To Serve With Akuri
Akuri is traditionally served with:
Buttered toast
Crusty bread
Pav
Chapatti
Paratha
Sourdough bread
For a traditional Parsi-style breakfast, serve alongside a cup of chai.
Storage
Fridge - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.Reheating - Reheat gently over low heat until warmed through. Avoid overheating as the eggs can become dry.Freezing - Freezing is not recommended as the texture will deteriorate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Akuri dry?
The eggs have likely been overcooked. Proper Akuri should remain soft and slightly loose.
Can I make Akuri less spicy?
Yes. Simply reduce the number of chillies or the amount of chilli powder.
What do Parsis traditionally serve with Akuri?
Akuri is most commonly served with toast, bread, pav, chapatis or parathas.
Can I make Akuri ahead of time?
Akuri is best enjoyed immediately after cooking when the eggs are at their creamiest.
Why are the eggs whisked first?
Whisking the eggs creates a smoother texture and helps them cook evenly once added to the masala.
What is the secret to authentic Parsi Akuri?
The key is cooking the eggs gently and removing them from the heat while they are still soft and creamy. Overcooked eggs lose the texture that makes Akuri unique.