Adam Liaw’s curried egg salad rolls

There is something deeply comforting about a soft roll filled with creamy eggs, especially when a gentle hit of curry lets you know this is not your everyday sandwich. This is the kind of food that feels nostalgic and fresh at the same time. Warm rolls, rich filling, and that unmistakable aroma that makes you pause before the first bite. Trust me, you’re going to love this.

Why these rolls feel so irresistible

Some recipes just hit that sweet spot between simple and memorable, and this is one of them. The combination of fluffy eggs, mellow curry, and pillowy bread creates a balance that feels both familiar and exciting. It is the sort of dish that disappears fast at the table and always leaves people asking for one more.

A little background behind the idea

Curried egg fillings have long been popular across Australia and parts of Asia, often showing up in bakeries and lunch counters. The idea is simple, take a classic egg salad and gently warm it with spices that add depth without overpowering the eggs. Over time, this style became a café staple, loved for its comfort and bold yet approachable flavor.

What makes this recipe a keeper

This is where things really come together, and now let’s dive into why this dish works so well every single time.

Versatile: These rolls work just as well for lunchboxes, picnics, or a casual weekend meal.

Budget-Friendly: Eggs, bread, and pantry spices keep costs low without sacrificing flavor.

Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this comes together fast, making it perfect for busy days.

Customizable: You can tweak spice levels or add texture with small extras if you like.

Crowd-Pleasing: Soft, creamy, and gently spiced flavors appeal to almost everyone.

Make-Ahead Friendly: The filling can be prepared earlier and assembled when needed.

Great for Leftovers: Extra filling stores well and makes tomorrow’s lunch effortless.

Insider tips for perfect results

Before you start cooking, a few small details can make all the difference. These little insights help turn a good roll into a great one.

• Use eggs that are cooked just until set, not overcooked, so the filling stays creamy.
• Let the eggs cool slightly before mixing so the mayonnaise stays smooth.
• Toasting the curry powder briefly brings out its aroma and depth.
• Choose soft rolls that compress easily without falling apart.

Kitchen tools you will need

Every great recipe starts with the right setup, and this one keeps things refreshingly simple.

Saucepan: For boiling the eggs evenly and gently.

Mixing bowl: A medium bowl works best for combining the filling.

Knife: A sharp blade makes peeling and chopping eggs easier.

Spoon: For mixing everything together without mashing the eggs too much.

Ingredients you will need

This recipe shines because each ingredient plays a clear role, working together in harmony to build flavor and texture.

1. Eggs: 6 large eggs, hard boiled, they form the rich and creamy base of the filling.
2. Mayonnaise: 1.3 cup, adds smoothness and ties everything together.
3. Curry powder: 2 teaspoons, brings warmth and gentle spice without overpowering.
4. Salt: 0.5 teaspoon, enhances the natural flavor of the eggs.
5. White pepper: 0.25 teaspoon, adds subtle heat without sharpness.
6. Spring onions: 2 finely sliced, give freshness and a mild bite.
7. Soft bread rolls: 6 rolls, lightly split, they hold the filling while staying tender.

Simple ingredient swaps

Cooking should feel flexible, so here are a few easy substitutions if you need them.

Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy option.
Spring onions: Finely chopped chives work beautifully.
White pepper: Black pepper if that is what you have on hand.

Spotlight on key ingredients

Eggs: Fresh eggs with bright yolks create a richer filling and better texture.
Curry powder: A mild blend works best here, adding warmth rather than heat.

Let’s get cooking

Now comes the fun part, and now let’s dive into the step by step process that brings everything together.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Bring a saucepan of water to a gentle boil for the eggs.
2. Combine Ingredients: Once cooked and peeled, roughly chop the eggs and place them in a bowl with mayonnaise, curry powder, salt, and white pepper.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Lightly toast the curry powder in a dry pan for a few seconds before adding, if desired.
4. Assemble the Dish: Fold in the spring onions, mixing gently to keep texture.
5. Cook to Perfection: There is no further cooking needed, just ensure everything is well combined.
6. Finishing Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Spoon generously into soft rolls and serve immediately.

Texture and flavor harmony

What really makes this dish special is the contrast. The eggs stay soft and creamy, the curry adds warmth and color, and the bread wraps everything in a tender bite. Each mouthful feels balanced, rich but not heavy, and incredibly satisfying.

Helpful cooking tips and tricks

A few extra pointers can help you get the best possible outcome.

• Slightly under-mix the eggs to keep small chunks.
• Chill the filling briefly if you want a firmer texture.
• Split rolls gently so they do not tear.

What to avoid for best results

Even simple recipes have a few pitfalls, but they are easy to avoid.

• Overcooking the eggs, which leads to a dry filling.
• Using crusty bread that overpowers the soft filling.
• Adding too much curry powder, which can mask the egg flavor.

Nutrition facts at a glance

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 320

Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on ingredients used.

Preparation time breakdown

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Make-ahead and storage tips

The filling can be prepared up to one day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Assemble the rolls just before serving to keep the bread fresh. Leftover filling keeps well for up to two days and does not freeze well due to the mayonnaise.

How to serve these rolls

Serve them fresh with crisp vegetables on the side or alongside a light soup. They also work beautifully cut in half for sharing platters or casual gatherings.

Creative leftover transformations

Leftover filling can be spooned onto toast, used as a sandwich spread, or served with crackers for a quick snack.

Additional tips for extra flavor

Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness or a pinch of paprika for color. Small tweaks can make the dish feel new each time.

Make it a showstopper on the table

Serve the rolls wrapped in parchment or lined up on a wooden board. A sprinkle of finely sliced spring onions on top adds a fresh, inviting look.

Variations to try

• Add finely chopped celery for crunch.
• Mix in a little mustard for extra tang.
• Use whole wheat rolls for a heartier bite.
• Add a pinch of turmeric for deeper color.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

Q2: Are these rolls spicy?

They are gently spiced, not hot, making them very approachable.

Q3: Can I use store-bought boiled eggs?

Yes, but freshly boiled eggs usually taste better.

Q4: What bread works best?

Soft white rolls are ideal for texture and balance.

Q5: Can I reduce the mayonnaise?

Yes, though the filling will be less creamy.

Q6: Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, it is fully vegetarian.

Q7: Can I add extra vegetables?

Yes, finely chopped vegetables work well.

Q8: How long does the filling last?

Up to two days when refrigerated properly.

Q9: Can I serve this cold?

Yes, it tastes great chilled or at room temperature.

Q10: Is this suitable for kids?

Absolutely, the flavors are mild and comforting.

Conclusion

This is one of those recipes that quietly becomes a favorite. It is simple, comforting, and full of gentle flavor that keeps you coming back. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite, and once you try it, you will understand why these rolls never last long on the table.

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