There’s a cozy sense of nostalgia that washes over me when I whip up this Easy Kedgeree recipe—like a warm hug on a chilly day. The delightful aroma of smoky haddock mingling with fragrant spices has a way of transporting my taste buds to a quaint British cottage. Each spoonful offers a perfect balance of fluffy rice, tender peas, and rich, perfectly boiled eggs, creating a satisfying dish that’s ready for any occasion, be it brunch with friends or a comforting supper at home.
Stirring together this timeless comfort food is not just easy but also a true culinary adventure, where iconic British flavors harmonize beautifully. You might be surprised to learn how quickly this dish comes together, allowing you to savor a gourmet experience without spending hours in the kitchen. Join me as we dive into this delightful kedgeree, guaranteed to tantalize your senses and revive your love for home-cooked meals!
Why Love This Easy Kedgeree Recipe?
Easy Kedgeree is the epitome of comfort food!
Quick and Simple: This recipe allows you to whip up a satisfying meal in no time, making it perfect for busy days.
Warm, Cozy Flavors: The smoky haddock and aromatic spices create a welcoming aroma that fills your home.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it for brunch, lunch, or a light supper—this meal fits any occasion!
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether hosting friends or cherishing a quiet night in, everyone will love this flavorful dish.
Nutritious and Wholesome: Loaded with protein and essential nutrients, it offers a balanced meal option to elevate your dining experience!
Easy Kedgeree Ingredients
• Discover the key components for this delightful Easy Kedgeree recipe!
For the Base
- Basmati Rice – Provides a fluffy texture; jasmine rice is a lovely alternative.
- Vegetable Stock Cube (optional) – Enhances the rice’s flavor; feel free to use water if desired.
For the Flavors
- Smoked Haddock – The star ingredient bringing in a delightful smokiness; you can swap it for any flaky white fish if preferred.
- Onion – Offers sweetness and depth; shallots make a superb substitute.
- Butter – Adds richness; olive oil is perfect for a dairy-free version!
- Vegetable Oil – Used for sautéing; any neutral oil will do just fine.
- Curry Powder – Delivers essential spice notes; garam masala can offer a different flair.
- Ground Turmeric – Adds earthy color; omit it if you don’t have any on hand.
For the Garnish
- Eggs – Packed with protein and creaminess; feel free to substitute with tofu for a vegan twist.
- Frozen Peas – Contributes a pop of sweetness and color; fresh peas are delightful when in season.
- Fresh Parsley or Coriander – Provides a burst of fresh flavor; chives work well too, or you can omit this entirely!
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish with acidity; lime juice is a lovely alternative.
- Black Pepper – Adds that perfect heat; adjust to suit your taste.
Embrace the warmth of this Easy Kedgeree recipe, celebrating both its flavor and simplicity!
How to Make Easy Kedgeree
-
Boil Eggs: Place eggs in a saucepan and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook for 6-7 minutes, then rinse in cold water. Once cooled, set aside for later.
-
Poach Fish: In a separate pan, simmer the smoked haddock along with bay leaves in water for 8-10 minutes until tender. Carefully remove the fish and set aside, reserving the poaching liquid for cooking the rice.
-
Cook Rice: Add the rinsed basmati rice to the reserved poaching liquid. If using, crumble in the vegetable stock cube. Bring to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is fluffy.
-
Sauté Onions: In a clean pan, melt both butter and vegetable oil together. Cook the chopped onion for 8-10 minutes until soft and golden. Add curry powder and ground turmeric, and stir for an additional minute to release their fragrant aromas.
-
Prepare Peas: In a small pot, boil frozen peas in salted water for about 5 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
-
Combine: Gently fold the cooked onions, peas, and flaked smoked haddock into the fluffy rice. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over, and season with salt and black pepper to taste, being cautious not to break the fish too much.
-
Serve: Halve or quarter the boiled eggs and nestle them atop the warmed kedgeree. Serve immediately, or keep warm in a covered pot with a bit of butter for a lovely sheen.
Optional: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or coriander for a vibrant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Easy Kedgeree Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity with these delightful twists on the classic kedgeree recipe that will tickle your taste buds.
- Vegan Twist: Substitute tofu for boiled eggs and smoked haddock to create a plant-based version packed with flavor and protein.
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale to add vibrant color and essential nutrients for a healthy touch.
- Different Fish: Swap smoked haddock for salmon or mackerel for an exciting flavor twist; it’ll bring a new dimension to the dish.
- Spice it Up: For an added kick, incorporate chopped chili or a dash of cayenne pepper when sautéing the onions. It elevates the entire experience.
- Coconut Cream: Add a splash of coconut milk while cooking the rice for a luscious, creamy texture with a subtly sweet note.
- Citrus Infusion: Mix in lime zest along with the lemon juice for a burst of bright flavor that adds a lively zing to your kedgeree.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle in some toasted almonds or cashews for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft rice and fish.
- Herb Variation: Experiment with fresh herb substitutions—try dill or mint for a fresh and fragrant surprise that lightens the dish beautifully.
Tips for the Best Easy Kedgeree
Perfect Eggs: Use a timer to avoid overcooking the eggs—aim for a soft-boiled texture that complements the dish beautifully.
Flavorful Poaching: Poach the smoked haddock gently to maintain its delicate texture; avoid boiling to prevent toughness.
Rice Check: Keep an eye on the basmati rice while it cooks; stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Gentle Mixing: When combining ingredients, fold gently to maintain the integrity of the flaked haddock—some larger pieces give the kedgeree character.
Season Smartly: Taste and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper at the end; different fish may affect the overall flavor.
Embrace these tips for a truly delightful Easy Kedgeree recipe that will warm your heart and fill your home with wonderful aromas!
What to Serve with Easy Kedgeree?
Pairing your kedgeree with complementary side dishes elevates the whole meal experience.
-
Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunch of toasted garlic bread perfectly contrasts with the creamy textures of the kedgeree, adding delightful flavors.
-
Tangy Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette brings brightness and cooling effects to balance the smokiness of the dish.
-
Roasted Asparagus: Tender, roasted asparagus sprinkled with lemon zest adds a vibrant touch and earthiness that complements the flavors of the kedgeree beautifully.
-
Chive and Sour Cream Dip: This creamy dip served with warm pita chips gives a delightful tang that enhances the taste of the kedgeree while adding a fun crunch.
-
Herby Quinoa: A light and fluffy quinoa salad mixed with fresh herbs provides a nutritious addition to your meal and enhances the plate’s vibrancy.
-
Chai Tea or Cold Brewed Iced Tea: Enjoy a cup of fragrant chai or a refreshing glass of iced tea with your kedgeree to awaken the palate during your meal.
Exploring these pairings will transform your serving of Easy Kedgeree into a memorable dining experience that delights every sense!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Kedgeree bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can boil the eggs, poach the haddock, and even cook the rice up to 24 hours in advance, making your weeknight meals stress-free. Simply store the eggs unpeeled and the haddock, rice, and peas in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain quality. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the rice gently in a pan, fold in the peas and haddock, and top it with the sliced eggs. This way, you’ll enjoy the same comforting flavors without any rush, allowing you to savor every delicious bite.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Kedgeree
Fridge: Store your Easy Kedgeree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy it later, freeze portions of the kedgeree in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. For best results, cool completely before sealing.
Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a little water to restore consistency.
Tip: Kedgeree may dry out slightly when stored, but with a touch of water and gentle reheating, it will still taste wonderful!
Easy Kedgeree Recipe FAQs
What type of smoked haddock should I use?
Absolutely! Opt for undyed smoked haddock, as it imparts a rich, smoky flavor without adding artificial coloring. It’s the perfect choice to complement the spices and achieve that authentic kedgeree taste.
How should I store leftover kedgeree?
Store your Easy Kedgeree in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stove, adding a splash of water to help revitalize moisture and prevent dryness.
Can I freeze kedgeree?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Easy Kedgeree, allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of water if necessary to restore its texture.
What if my rice is too sticky?
No worries! If your rice turns out sticky, it might be due to too much cooking. In the future, rinse the rice well before cooking to remove excess starch. If you’re already at the sticky stage, try fluffing it with a fork instead of stirring vigorously to separate the grains.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This recipe features ingredients that some may have allergies to, like fish and eggs. If you’re creating a vegan version, substitute the smoked haddock with flaky tofu and the eggs with avocados or extra peas for creaminess. Always consult your guests about dietary restrictions before serving!
Can I use different types of fish?
Very! While smoked haddock gives kedgeree its signature flavor, feel free to experiment with other flaky white fish like cod or salmon, or even tinned mackerel for a different twist. Just ensure whichever fish you use is cooked through and flaked before mixing it into the rice.
Easy Kedgeree Recipe with Smoked Haddock for Comforting Brunch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place eggs in a saucepan and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook for 6-7 minutes, then rinse in cold water. Once cooled, set aside for later.
- In a separate pan, simmer the smoked haddock along with bay leaves in water for 8-10 minutes until tender. Remove the fish and set aside, reserving the poaching liquid for cooking the rice.
- Add the rinsed basmati rice to the reserved poaching liquid. Crumble in the vegetable stock cube if using. Bring to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is fluffy.
- In a clean pan, melt both butter and vegetable oil together. Cook the chopped onion for 8-10 minutes until soft and golden. Add curry powder and ground turmeric, and stir for an additional minute.
- In a small pot, boil frozen peas in salted water for about 5 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Gently fold the cooked onions, peas, and flaked smoked haddock into the fluffy rice. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Halve or quarter the boiled eggs and nestle them atop the warmed kedgeree. Serve immediately or keep warm in a covered pot.