I LOVE Indian food. But I had never had it for breakfast. That is until, one fine morning, my daughter-in-law Saanya asked if I would like an omelet? And would I like a “regular” one or a Masala omelet? What kind of question is that?
So…I watched her. I watch her cook whenever I have the chance. She just throws in “this and that” with her beautiful hands, tasting and adjusting as she goes. She grew up watching her mama in the kitchen and she’s a natural.
Masala refers to any blend of spices used in Indian cuisine. The mixture of spices will vary depending on the dish.
This is called a Masala Dabba which contains 7 essential spices for cooking Indian food, although I have noticed a little variation. They all pretty much have cumin seeds, turmeric, coriander and chilli powder.
These are the basics that Saanya uses:
Saanya starts by cooking the veggies. First the onions!
Then add the tomatoes and cilantro cooking about 1 minute each.
Next mix the eggs, spices and half ‘n half.
Giving the eggs a good whisk is important. The more air you whisk in, the lighter the omelet!
Spoon half of the cooked veggies into a small-medium skillet and when heated, spoon in half of the egg mixture.
Turn down the heat allowing the egg mixture time to cook without burning.
Sprinkle on cheese at this point if you wish and flip it over.
Slide it onto a plate and serve hot! SO GOOD!!!
Saanya’s Masala Omelet
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup red onion, chopped
- 1 cup tomatoes, chopped
- ½ bunch cilantro, chopped
- 6 large eggs
- ¼ cup half and half
- ¾ tsp cumin
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- ¾ tsp coriander
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp red chili powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 medium lime, juiced
- salt and pepper
- 1 can green chilis, diced **optional
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded **optional
Instructions
- Heat oil in medium skillet. Add onions and saute until softened, 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes, stir and cook 1 minute.
- Stir in cilantro and cook another minute. Set aside.
- Break eggs into mixing bowl and whisk in the half and half.
- Add in all the spices, lime juice and green chilis if desired. Whisk for a good minute.
- Spoon half of the veggies into an 8-9 inch skillet and turn heat to medium.
- When the pan is heated, spoon half of the egg mixture on top of the veggies. Swirl pan around to spread the egg mixture.
- Watch heat carefully, turning down if needed. Allow egg to cook to desired doneness. Salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with cheese if desired.
- Use spatula to flip the omelet in half.
- Slide onto a plate and serve hot!