Authentic Anjappar Egg Fried Rice Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide for a Flavorful Dish

Egg fried rice is a universal comfort food, but Anjappar Egg Fried Rice takes it up a notch with its Chettinad-style spices, rich flavors, and high-heat cooking techniques. This dish is a staple in Anjappar restaurants, well-known for its South Indian culinary heritage. If you’ve ever craved restaurant-style egg fried rice, you’re in for a treat!

In this article, we’ll walk through the origins, essential ingredients, and a step-by-step cooking guide to making an authentic Anjappar-style egg fried rice at home. By the end, you’ll be able to whip up a plate of this flavorful, aromatic rice that pairs perfectly with raita or a spicy side dish.

Introduction to Anjappar Egg Fried Rice Recipe

The Origin of Anjappar’s Egg Fried Rice

Anjappar, a legendary South Indian restaurant chain, has been serving authentic Chettinad cuisine since 1964. Their version of egg fried rice has gained immense popularity for its spicy, aromatic, and smoky flavor, setting it apart from traditional Chinese-style fried rice.

Chettinad cuisine, hailing from Tamil Nadu, is famous for its bold spice blends, wok-based cooking techniques, and layered flavors. Unlike generic fried rice recipes, Anjappar Egg Fried Rice incorporates a mix of black pepper, green chilies, and aromatic herbs to give it an irresistible South Indian touch.

Unique Features of Anjappar Egg Fried Rice

What makes this dish so special? Well, it’s not just about tossing rice and eggs together! Here are some key elements that make this recipe stand out:

• High-Heat Wok Cooking: To achieve the perfect restaurant-style egg fried rice, the dish is cooked on high heat in a seasoned wok, ensuring a smoky aroma.
• Use of Black Pepper: Unlike conventional fried rice, which relies on soy sauce, black pepper is the dominant flavoring agent in Anjappar Egg Fried Rice, giving it a warm, spicy kick.
• Fresh Aromatic Ingredients: Green chilies, garlic, onions, and curry leaves create a fragrant base, enhancing the dish’s authentic taste.
• Perfectly Scrambled Eggs: The eggs are cooked just right—soft, fluffy, and well-coated in spices before being mixed with the rice.

Essential Ingredients and Preparation for Anjappar Egg Fried Rice Recipe

Now that we’ve uncovered the origins and uniqueness of Anjappar Egg Fried Rice, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and gather the ingredients. The secret to achieving that bold, restaurant-style flavor lies in using the right ingredients and following a meticulous preparation process.

Essential Ingredients for Anjappar Egg Fried Rice Recipe

To recreate this authentic South Indian egg fried rice, you’ll need a balanced combination of carbs, protein, and rich spices. Let’s break it down:

Rice Selection – The Backbone of the Dish

The type of rice you use makes or breaks your dish. Unlike short-grain rice used in other cuisines, Anjappar-style egg fried rice demands long-grain, aromatic rice, such as:

• Basmati Rice – The go-to choice for its non-sticky texture and subtle aroma.
• Seeraga Samba Rice – A South Indian favorite, known for its unique fragrance and quick cooking time.
• Day-Old Cooked Rice – Freshly cooked rice retains moisture, making the dish mushy. Using day-old, refrigerated rice ensures fluffy and separate grains.

Eggs – The Star Ingredient

• Farm Fresh Eggs – Use organic or free-range eggs for a richer taste and better texture.
• Scrambling the Eggs Properly – The eggs should be light, fluffy, and well-coated with spices before mixing with rice.

Key Spices and Flavorings – The South Indian Touch

What sets Anjappar Egg Fried Rice apart? Its spice profile! Forget store-bought seasoning packets—here’s what you need:

• Black Pepper Powder – The dominant spice, giving the dish its signature kick.
• Cumin Powder – Enhances depth of flavor and complements the eggs.
• Turmeric Powder – Adds a golden hue and earthy aroma.
• Garam Masala – A pinch of this spice blend elevates the taste.
• Salt & Red Chili Powder – Adjust based on spice tolerance.

Aromatic Additions – Building the Flavor Base

• Onions & Garlic – Intensify the dish’s aroma and savory taste.
• Green Chilies – Brings in that authentic South Indian heat.
• Curry Leaves – A must-have! They add a deep, smoky flavor that’s unmistakably Chettinad.
• Spring Onions & Cilantro – Fresh garnishes that add color and a final burst of freshness.

Oils & Fats – Choosing the Right One

For that signature restaurant-style finish, pick an oil with a high smoke point:

• Sesame Oil – Adds an earthy depth.
• Peanut Oil – A traditional choice for South Indian cooking.
• Ghee (Clarified Butter) – For a richer, silkier fried rice experience.

Preparing the Rice – The Secret to Perfect Texture

Before we even heat the wok, let’s prep the rice correctly to ensure it stays non-sticky and fluffy:

1. Wash the Rice – Rinse thoroughly in cold water to remove excess starch, preventing clumping.
2. Cook Until Al Dente – Boil the rice with 1:1.5 water ratio until just cooked, ensuring it’s firm yet tender.
3. Spread It Out to Cool – After cooking, spread the rice on a tray and let it cool completely. Refrigerate overnight for best results!

Preparing the Eggs – Soft, Spicy, and Perfectly Scrambled

Perfectly fluffy and well-seasoned eggs are crucial for Anjappar-style egg fried rice! Here’s how:

1. Beat the Eggs Well – Whisk with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and turmeric powder.
2. Preheat Oil in a Wok – A hot wok ensures the eggs cook quickly without turning rubbery.
3. Scramble Softly – Cook over medium heat until just set—not overcooked!
4. Break into Pieces – Lightly shred them before mixing with rice.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Anjappar Egg Fried Rice

Now that we’ve prepped our fluffy rice, seasoned eggs, and bold South Indian spices, it’s time to bring everything together in a sizzling hot wok! Cooking Anjappar Egg Fried Rice requires the right technique—high heat, quick tossing, and precise seasoning ensure a restaurant-style finish.

Let’s dive into the step-by-step cooking process that guarantees an authentic, smoky, and flavor-packed egg fried rice! 🔥

Step 1: Heat the Wok or Pan to the Right Temperature

🔥 Why is this important? High heat ensures the rice stays fluffy instead of turning mushy, and it helps develop that signature wok-kissed aroma.

• Use a Wok or a Large Kadai – A carbon steel wok works best as it retains heat well, allowing a quick stir-fry.
• Preheat on High Heat – Let the wok smoke slightly before adding oil.
• Choose the Right Oil – Pour sesame oil or peanut oil for an authentic South Indian touch.

💡 Pro Tip: Never overcrowd the wok! Frying in small batches prevents the rice from steaming and turning soggy.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Spices for Maximum Flavor

🌶️ The foundation of a flavorful fried rice starts here!

1. Add Aromatic Ingredients
   • Toss in finely chopped onions, garlic, and green chilies.
   • Sauté until onions turn translucent and the garlic releases a nutty aroma.
2. Bloom the Spices
   • Sprinkle black pepper, cumin, red chili powder, turmeric, and garam masala.
   • Stir for 10-15 seconds until fragrant—this step deepens the spice profile!

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t burn the spices! Keep stirring to avoid bitterness while enhancing the dish’s depth.

Step 3: Cook and Incorporate the Eggs

🥚 Eggs should be soft, fluffy, and well-seasoned before mixing with rice.

1. Push the sautéed spices to one side of the wok.
2. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty space.
3. Scramble gently over medium heat – Let them set slightly before breaking into small, fluffy pieces.
4. Mix the eggs with the aromatics, ensuring they’re fully coated in the spices.

💡 Pro Tip: Cook eggs just until set; overcooking can make them rubbery.

Step 4: Add Rice and Stir-Fry for the Perfect Texture

🍚 Time to bring everything together!

1. Increase heat to high before adding the day-old cooked rice.
2. Toss and stir continuously – This helps the rice absorb the spices without becoming mushy.
3. Sprinkle salt, more black pepper, and a dash of garam masala for extra depth.
4. Drizzle a few drops of sesame oil for that authentic restaurant-style glaze.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a folding motion instead of mashing the rice while stirring. This keeps the grains separate and airy.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Garnishing

🌿 Time for the finishing touches!

1. Add freshly chopped spring onions and cilantro.
2. Toss everything together one last time to distribute flavors evenly.
3. Remove from heat and serve immediately!

💡 Pro Tip: Want an extra smoky touch? Let the rice sit undisturbed for 20 seconds before the final toss—this slightly chars the bottom, enhancing the wok aroma!

Final Thoughts on Cooking Process

By following these steps, you’ll achieve perfectly seasoned, restaurant-quality Anjappar Egg Fried Rice every time! The combination of high heat, bold spices, and well-balanced textures makes this dish a crowd-pleaser.

Tips and Variations for the Best Anjappar Egg Fried Rice

By now, you’ve mastered the step-by-step cooking process of Anjappar Egg Fried Rice. But, to truly make it restaurant-quality, you need to fine-tune your technique! In this section, we’ll go over pro tips to perfect your fried rice every single time, plus some exciting variations to customize it based on your preferences.

Expert Tips for Perfect Anjappar Egg Fried Rice

Even the simplest mistakes can affect the texture, flavor, and aroma of your fried rice. Follow these game-changing tips to ensure a mouthwatering dish every time!

✅ 1. Always Use Day-Old Rice

• Freshly cooked rice contains too much moisture, making it clump together and turn mushy.
• Cold, refrigerated rice is drier and firmer, allowing each grain to absorb flavors without breaking apart.

💡 Quick Fix: If using fresh rice, spread it on a tray and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before frying.

✅ 2. Cook on High Heat for Smoky Flavor

• Stir-frying on low heat makes the rice steamed and soggy.
• A blazing hot wok gives you that charred, restaurant-style wok aroma.

💡 Pro Tip: If you don’t hear a sizzle when adding the rice, your wok isn’t hot enough!

✅ 3. Don’t Overcrowd the Wok

• Cooking too much rice at once lowers the wok’s temperature, preventing proper frying.
• Always cook in small batches to maintain the perfect smoky texture.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a large wok or a wide, heavy-bottomed pan to allow even heat distribution.

✅ 4. Add Spices at the Right Time

• Bloom the spices in oil first—this releases their full aroma and prevents a raw taste.
• Adding black pepper and garam masala towards the end boosts the dish’s fragrance.

✅ 5. Scramble Eggs Separately Before Mixing

• Cooking eggs first allows them to be fluffy and well-seasoned.
• If mixed too soon, they disappear into the rice instead of being soft, distinct bites.

Variations of Anjappar Egg Fried Rice

Want to switch things up? Here are creative twists to customize your fried rice while maintaining that authentic Anjappar-style taste!

🔥 1. Spicy Chettinad Egg Fried Rice

• Add extra black pepper and red chili powder for a spicier version.
• Garnish with crispy fried curry leaves for a more intense Chettinad kick!

🥬 2. Vegetarian Version (Eggless Fried Rice)

• Replace eggs with soft paneer or crumbled tofu for a protein-packed vegetarian dish.
• Toss in extra bell peppers, carrots, and peas for added crunch.

🍗 3. Protein-Packed Chicken & Egg Fried Rice

• Add shredded, grilled, or tandoori-spiced chicken for an extra layer of flavor.
• Marinate the chicken in yogurt, ginger, and garlic before frying for an authentic South Indian touch!

🦐 4. Seafood Twist – Prawn & Egg Fried Rice

• Sauté fresh prawns with the aromatics before adding rice.
• Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the bold spices!

🥜 5. Nutty & Crunchy Cashew Egg Fried Rice

• Roast cashews in ghee and mix them in for a delightful crunch.
• This variation enhances richness and adds a mild sweetness.

Final Thoughts on Customizing Your Fried Rice

No matter how you modify it, Anjappar-style Egg Fried Rice retains its bold South Indian flavors. Play around with spice levels, protein choices, and garnishes to match your personal taste.

Serving Suggestions for Anjappar Egg Fried Rice

You’ve just prepared a flavor-packed, smoky, and restaurant-style Anjappar Egg Fried Rice! But what’s the best way to serve it? While this dish is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can take the experience to a whole new level.

In this section, we’ll explore the best accompaniments, presentation tips, and serving styles to make your meal feel like a true South Indian feast! 🍛🔥

Best Accompaniments for Anjappar Egg Fried Rice

Pairing Anjappar-style egg fried rice with the right sides enhances the dish’s spice balance and texture contrast. Here are some must-try accompaniments:

🥒 1. Onion Raita – The Classic Cooling Side

• A creamy and refreshing yogurt-based side dish that balances the heat of the fried rice.
• Made with curd, chopped onions, green chilies, and cilantro, this simple dish adds a cooling effect.
• 💡 Pro Tip: Add a pinch of black salt and roasted cumin powder for extra flavor.

🌶 2. Chettinad Pepper Chicken – Spicy & Bold Pairing

• A spicy, dry-style chicken dish cooked with black pepper, curry leaves, and garlic.
• The bold, peppery flavors complement the egg fried rice perfectly!
• 🍗 Want a milder version? Try a South Indian-style butter chicken curry instead.

🥬 3. Vegetable Kurma – A Flavorful Curry Pairing

• A rich, coconut-based vegetable curry loaded with carrots, beans, and peas.
• The mild creaminess contrasts beautifully with the bold, smoky fried rice.

🌶 4. Pickles & Papadum – A Simple Yet Effective Combo

• Spicy mango or lime pickles add a tangy kick.
• Crispy papadum (thin lentil crackers) provide a crunchy texture contrast.

💡 Pro Tip: If you want something lighter, serve the fried rice with a simple cucumber salad dressed in lemon juice and salt.

How to Serve Anjappar Egg Fried Rice Like a Pro

Presentation matters! Whether you’re serving this at home or at a dinner party, these tips will elevate your plating and make the dish even more appetizing.

✅ 1. Use a Banana Leaf for an Authentic Touch

• South Indian restaurants often serve fried rice on a fresh banana leaf, which enhances the aroma.
• If you don’t have banana leaves, a large steel plate or wooden serving board works just as well.

✅ 2. Garnish for Extra Freshness

• Sprinkle freshly chopped spring onions and cilantro on top before serving.
• Add a drizzle of ghee or sesame oil for a glossy finish.

✅ 3. Serve with a Side of Sliced Onions & Lemon Wedges

• A few thinly sliced onions and a squeeze of lemon juice enhance the rice’s smoky flavors.
• This small touch brings a restaurant-like authenticity to the dish.

Best Drinks to Pair with Anjappar Egg Fried Rice

Since Anjappar-style egg fried rice is spicy and flavorful, it pairs well with refreshing, non-alcoholic beverages:

• Buttermilk (Neer Mor) – A lightly spiced, cooling yogurt drink.
• Fresh Lime Juice – The citrus tang helps cut through the spice.
• Tender Coconut Water – A classic South Indian refreshment!

Final Thoughts on Serving & Pairing

With the right accompaniments and serving techniques, you can turn a simple plate of Anjappar Egg Fried Rice into a restaurant-worthy meal!

Nutritional Breakdown of Anjappar Egg Fried Rice

Eating delicious food is one thing, but knowing what goes into it nutritionally can help you enjoy it even more! Anjappar Egg Fried Rice is packed with protein, healthy carbs, and bold spices, making it a nutritionally balanced meal when prepared the right way.

In this section, we’ll explore the caloric content, macronutrient breakdown, and ways to make this dish healthier without compromising on flavor. 🍛💪

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Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving – Approx. 1 Bowl)

Nutrient	Amount (Approx.)
Calories	350 – 400 kcal
Protein	12 – 15g
Carbohydrates	50 – 55g
Fats	10 – 12g
Fiber	2 – 3g
Sodium	500 – 700mg

💡 Pro Tip: Nutritional values vary based on rice type, oil used, and portion size.

Health Benefits of Anjappar Egg Fried Rice

Despite being a restaurant-style dish, Anjappar Egg Fried Rice can be healthy when made with the right ingredients and cooking techniques. Here’s why:

✅ 1. High in Protein

• Eggs provide high-quality protein essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Adding paneer, tofu, or chicken can increase protein content further.

✅ 2. Rich in Antioxidants & Spices

• Black pepper, cumin, and turmeric contain powerful antioxidants that support digestion and immunity.
• Green chilies help boost metabolism and improve gut health.

✅ 3. Healthy Carbs for Energy

• Basmati or Seeraga Samba rice offers complex carbohydrates that keep you full for longer.
• Using brown rice or quinoa can make the dish even more fiber-rich.

How to Make Anjappar Egg Fried Rice Healthier

Want to enjoy this dish guilt-free? Try these healthy modifications while keeping the authentic taste intact:

🥑 1. Use Less Oil & Choose Wisely

• Instead of refined oils, use sesame oil, peanut oil, or a small amount of ghee for a healthier fat source.
• Cut oil usage by stir-frying with minimal oil and adding a splash of water when needed.

🥗 2. Add More Vegetables for Fiber

• Toss in carrots, beans, capsicum, or peas for a fiber and nutrient boost.
• Leafy greens like spinach or bok choy can also add extra vitamins and minerals.

🍚 3. Swap White Rice with Whole Grains

• Instead of white rice, try brown rice, red rice, quinoa, or millets for more fiber and nutrients.
• Cauliflower rice is a low-carb alternative for those watching their calorie intake.

🧂 4. Reduce Sodium Levels

• Skip excessive salt and MSG; instead, use lemon juice or herbs for a natural flavor boost.
• Opt for homemade spice blends to avoid excess sodium from pre-packaged seasonings.

Final Thoughts on Nutrition

Anjappar Egg Fried Rice is a balanced meal when made with mindful ingredient choices. Whether you want more protein, fewer calories, or added fiber, you can easily tweak the recipe without sacrificing its authentic South Indian flavors!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Anjappar Egg Fried Rice

Over time, many food lovers and home cooks have had questions about making the perfect Anjappar-style Egg Fried Rice. Whether it’s about choosing the right rice, adjusting spice levels, or storing leftovers, we’ve got you covered!

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) based on what people also ask online.

1. What type of rice is best for Anjappar Egg Fried Rice?

For the best results, use long-grain, non-sticky rice such as:

• Basmati rice – Light, fluffy, and absorbs flavors well.
• Seeraga Samba rice – Used in authentic South Indian cuisine, with a unique aroma and faster cooking time.
• Day-old rice – Essential for achieving separate, non-mushy grains.

💡 Pro Tip: If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a tray and let it cool completely before frying.

2. Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit eggs and replace them with:

• Tofu or crumbled paneer – To maintain protein content.
• Extra vegetables – Such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms.
• Cashews – For an added crunch and richness.

💡 Pro Tip: Use coconut oil or sesame oil for a more authentic South Indian taste.

3. How can I store leftover egg fried rice?

If you have leftovers, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat Properly: Use a wok or pan over high heat to revive the texture.
• Avoid Microwaving Directly: If using a microwave, sprinkle a few drops of water, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts.

💡 Pro Tip: Never leave fried rice at room temperature for too long—it may develop bacteria quickly!

4. Is it necessary to use a wok?

While a wok gives the best smoky, charred flavor, you can also use:

• A large kadai (Indian wok)
• A heavy-bottomed stainless steel pan

💡 Avoid non-stick pans—they don’t hold enough heat to achieve the signature high-heat stir-frying effect.

5. What other proteins can I add besides eggs?

For a non-vegetarian twist, try these:

• Shredded or grilled chicken – Adds extra protein and richness.
• Prawns (Shrimp) – A delicious seafood option that complements the spices.
• Mutton keema (minced meat) – For a unique South Indian flavor.

💡 Pro Tip: If using meat, marinate it with ginger-garlic paste and black pepper before cooking to enhance its flavor.

6. How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

The key to perfectly textured fried rice is:
✅ Using day-old rice – Freshly cooked rice is too moist.
✅ Cooking on high heat – Low heat makes rice clump together.
✅ Stir-frying in small batches – Overloading the pan leads to steaming instead of frying.

💡 Pro Tip: If rice turns mushy, spread it on a plate and let it dry out for 15 minutes before stir-frying.

7. Can I make this dish less spicy?

Of course! If you want a milder version, follow these tips:

• Reduce the amount of black pepper and red chili powder.
• Use fewer green chilies or remove the seeds.
• Add a little coconut milk or yogurt to mellow out the heat.

💡 Pro Tip: A side of cooling raita helps balance the spice level.

8. What is the secret to Chinese fried rice?

The secret to authentic Chinese fried rice lies in:

• Day-old cold rice – Ensures separate, non-mushy grains.
• High heat stir-frying – Creates a smoky, slightly charred wok flavor.
• Soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil – Give depth and umami richness.
• Cooking in stages – Eggs, rice, and vegetables are cooked separately before mixing.

💡 Pro Tip: A dash of white pepper enhances the authentic Chinese taste!

9. What gives Chinese fried rice its taste?

The distinct flavor of Chinese fried rice comes from:

• Soy sauce & oyster sauce – Add saltiness and umami depth.
• Sesame oil – Enhances the aroma and gives a nutty taste.
• Garlic, ginger, and green onions – Provide fresh, aromatic layers.
• High-heat frying – Creates a charred, restaurant-style wok aroma.

💡 Pro Tip: For a lighter, healthier version, use low-sodium soy sauce and replace oyster sauce with a dash of lemon juice.

10. Why not use olive oil for egg fried rice?

While olive oil is great for many dishes, it’s not ideal for fried rice because:

• Low smoke point – Olive oil burns quickly at high heat, affecting flavor.
• Mild, slightly fruity taste – Doesn’t complement the bold spices of egg fried rice.
• Heavy texture – It can make the rice greasy rather than light and fluffy.

💡 Best Alternatives: Sesame oil, peanut oil, or ghee – They handle high heat well and add an authentic touch.

11. Is there a difference between egg fried rice and regular fried rice?

Yes! The difference comes down to ingredients and cooking methods:

Aspect	Egg Fried Rice	Regular Fried Rice
Main Ingredient	Eggs + Rice	Rice with mixed vegetables, meat, or tofu
Protein Source	Eggs only	Can include chicken, shrimp, tofu, etc.
Cooking Process	Eggs scrambled first, then mixed with rice	All ingredients stir-fried together
Flavor Profile	More egg-forward, mild spices	More seasoned, uses soy sauce, oyster sauce, or curry spices

💡 Pro Tip: If you want a more flavorful egg fried rice, try adding a dash of garam masala and extra black pepper for a South Indian kick!

Final Thoughts on FAQs

Making Anjappar Egg Fried Rice at home is easy when you follow the right techniques and customize it to your taste! Whether you want a spicier, milder, vegetarian, or protein-packed version, this dish is highly adaptable while keeping its authentic South Indian flavors intact.

Conclusion – Make Anjappar Egg Fried Rice Like a Pro!

And there you have it—everything you need to know about making the perfect Anjappar Egg Fried Rice at home! From understanding its rich Chettinad origins to learning step-by-step cooking techniques, pro tips, and variations, this dish is now within your reach.

Key Takeaways:

Use the Right Rice – Day-old basmati or seeraga samba rice ensures fluffy, non-sticky grains.
Master High-Heat Stir-Frying – Cooking in a blazing hot wok gives the dish its signature smoky flavor.
Balance the Spices – Black pepper, cumin, and turmeric create a bold, South Indian touch.
Scramble Eggs Properly – Cook eggs separately for the best texture.
Customize Your Recipe – Add chicken, prawns, tofu, or extra veggies to match your taste.
Pair with the Right Sides – Enjoy with raita, pepper chicken, or a crunchy papadum for the full experience!

Why You Should Try This Dish Today!

Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal or craving restaurant-style egg fried rice, this Anjappar-inspired recipe is perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and bursting with South Indian flavors!

Now it’s your turn—head to the kitchen, fire up the wok, and enjoy this spicy, aromatic delight! 🍛🔥

💡 Tried this recipe? Share your experience and let us know how it turned out! Happy cooking! 🚀

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