Quirky Foodster
  1. Back

Rukhal Bread with Egg Curry (Khubz Rukhal ma’ Bayd)

The Quirky Foodster Team

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (0)

2
Servings

Ingredients

  • Plain flour — 250 g (9 oz)
  • Water, plus more as needed — 240 ml (8 fl oz)
  • Salt — 1/2 tsp
  • Eggs — 6
  • Onion, chopped — 1
  • Tomatoes, chopped — 2
  • Turmeric — 1 tsp
  • Curry powder — 1 tsp
  • Oil — 2 tbsp
  • Salt and pepper — to taste

Method

  1. Combine the flour, water and salt into a smooth, thin batter or soft dough (depending on regional method), and rest for 15 minutes.
  2. Divide into portions and either pat or roll each thinly, cooking on a hot dry griddle for about 1 minute per side until lightly browned.
  3. For the egg curry, heat the oil in a pan and sauté the onion until softened.
  4. Add the turmeric and curry powder, cooking briefly, then add the chopped tomato and cook for 5–6 minutes until it breaks down.
  5. Crack in the eggs, stirring gently to scramble them into the sauce, or poach them whole in the sauce until set, depending on preference.
  6. Season with salt and pepper, and serve alongside the warm rukhal bread.

Introduction: Thin, round rukhal bread served alongside a lightly spiced egg curry, a comforting and filling Omani midday meal.

Cultural Background: Rukhal bread, traditionally baked over a domed clay surface, is a distinctly Omani staple, and pairing it with a simple, spiced egg curry reflects the practical, satisfying everyday cooking found across Omani households.

Tips: Roll or pat the dough as thin as possible for the traditional light, crisp rukhal texture. Cook the eggs just until set, whether scrambled or poached, to keep them tender.

Variations: Add a chopped chilli to the egg curry for extra heat. Serve with a side of pickled lime for extra tang.

Storage: Refrigerate the egg curry in an airtight container for up to 1 day; bread is best fresh.

Reheating: Reheat the curry gently on the stovetop; warm the bread briefly on a dry griddle.

FAQs:

Q: What is rukhal bread traditionally baked on?

A: A domed clay or metal surface, giving it a distinctive thin, slightly textured character.

Q: Can this egg curry be made spicier?

A: Yes, adjust the curry powder and add fresh chilli to taste.