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Parsi Potatoes with Egg

This aromatic Parsi potato and egg dish, traditionally known as Sali Per Eedu, is a wonderful example of Parsi comfort food. The recipe combines tender, turmeric-stained potatoes with the fragrant crunch of mustard seeds and fresh curry leaves. Unlike a standard omelette, the eggs are whisked into a light, cloud-like mousse and steamed directly over the savoury potato base, creating a beautiful contrast in textures that is both delicate and deeply satisfying.

As a versatile vegetarian main, this dish works perfectly for a festive brunch or a nutritious midweek supper. The addition of roasted cashews provides an earthy crunch, while a squeeze of fresh lime cuts through the richness of the spiced potatoes. It is a wholesome, flavourful meal that celebrates the vibrant store-cupboard spices and fresh herbs central to Parsi cuisine.

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Ingredients for Parsi Potatoes with Egg

  • 900g small to medium yellow-fleshed potatoes such as Yukon Gold

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 1 teaspoon brown mustard seeds

  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

  • 20 to 30 fresh curry leaves

  • 3 to 4 fresh green serrano chillies, slit to the stem

  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced

  • 1/2 teaspoons turmeric

  • 1 cup coarsely chopped coriander

  • 3 large eggs, separated

  • 60ml water

  • Garnish: lime wedges

  • fried or roasted cashews

  • chopped coriander

How to make Parsi Potatoes with Egg

Cover potatoes with cold water by 1 inch in a medium saucepan, then stir in 1 tablespoon salt and simmer until not quite tender, about 8 minutes. Drain potatoes and cool slightly. Peel potatoes, then quarter and slice about 1/2 inch thick.

Heat oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat until it shimmers, then cook mustard and cumin seeds until a shade darker and mustard seeds begin to pop, about 45 seconds. Add curry leaves and chillies and cook, stirring, 30 seconds. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent, about 10 minutes. Stir in turmeric and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, then add potatoes and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender, 10 to 14 minutes. Discard chillies, then stir in coriander and salt to taste.

Transfer to a 10-inch heavy skillet with a high-domed lid (or use a metal bowl or inverted skillet as a lid) and keep warm, covered, over very low heat.

Beat egg whites with a pinch of salt until they just hold stiff peaks. Lightly beat yolks with a fork, then stir in a spoonful of beaten whites to lighten them. Fold in remaining whites gently but thoroughly. Drizzle water around edge of skillet and spread eggs evenly over surface of potatoes. Increase heat and bring liquid just to a simmer (to create steam). Cover skillet, then reduce heat to low and cook until surface is dry and slightly springy to the touch, 12 to 14 minutes.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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