Madras Curried Eggs with Rice

Breakfast

Whoever said that gourmet foods take ages to prepare did not know about this traditional Indian curried eggs dish, which my mother-in-law shared with me. Its meatless simplicity and all the accompaniments make it unique, delicious and unforgettable.

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TOTAL TIME: Prep: 20 min. + standing Cook: 15 min.
YIELD: 4 servings.

8 large eggs
1/4 cup butter
1 small onion, chopped
2 teaspoons curry powder
2 teaspoons tomato paste
1 garlic clove, minced
1 cup water
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) petite diced tomatoes, optional
1 teaspoon lemon juice
2 packages (8.8 ounces each) ready-to-serve long grain rice
Optional: Chopped salted peanuts, raisins, granted orange zest, chutney and shredded coconut

1. Place eggs in a single layer in a large saucepan; add enough cold water to cover by 1 in. Cover and quickly bring to a boil. Remove from heat. Let stand 15 minutes for large eggs (18 minutes for extra-large eggs and 12 minutes for medium eggs). Rinse eggs in cold water until cool enough to handle; peel and cut in half lengthwise.
2. Meanwhile, melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion; cook and stir until tender, 4-5 minutes. Add curry powder, tomato paste and garlic; cook 30 seconds. Stir in water and, if desired, tomatoes. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer until sauce slightly thickens, 8-10 minutes. Stir in lemon juice. Gently stir in eggs; cook until heated through. Serve eggs and sauce with rice and desired toppings.