Mushroom curry is a wholesome, flavorful, and satisfying dish that combines the earthy richness of mushrooms with the aromatic spices of Indian cuisine. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a non-vegetarian, this dish is sure to impress with its creamy texture and depth of flavor. Perfect for pairing with rice, naan, or roti, this curry is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- For the curry:
- 250 grams of fresh mushrooms (button mushrooms or any variety of your choice), sliced
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or ghee
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1-2 green chilies, chopped (adjust to your spice level)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth (adjust to desired consistency)
- 1/4 cup fresh cream or coconut milk (optional for a creamy texture)
- Fresh cilantro (coriander leaves), chopped for garnish
- For tempering (optional but recommended):
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 dried red chili
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Mushrooms:
- Clean the mushrooms gently using a damp cloth or rinse them quickly under water. Slice them into thick pieces. Set aside.
- Tempering:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add mustard seeds, dried red chili, and a pinch of asafoetida. Let them splutter for a few seconds.
- Sauté the Onions and Aromatics:
- Add cumin seeds to the pan and let them sizzle. Then, add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown, which should take about 6-7 minutes.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
- Cooking the Tomatoes:
- Add the pureed tomatoes to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The oil will start separating from the tomato mixture when it’s cooked properly.
- Sprinkle turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Stir and cook the masala base for another 2 minutes to blend the spices.
- Add the Mushrooms:
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and mix well. Let the mushrooms cook for about 5-7 minutes. They will release their water, which will eventually evaporate, and the mushrooms will absorb the spices.
- Simmer and Cook the Curry:
- Add water or vegetable broth to the curry. Stir well and let the curry simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to cook through and the flavors to meld together.
- If you want a creamier texture, stir in fresh cream or coconut milk at this point and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Final Touch:
- Sprinkle garam masala powder and stir gently to combine. Let the curry simmer for a couple more minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness. Serve your mushroom curry hot with steamed rice, naan, or roti.
Tips for the Best Mushroom Curry:
- Choosing Mushrooms: You can use different types of mushrooms like button, cremini, or portobello for varied textures and flavors. Make sure to clean them properly.
- Spices: Adjust the spice levels to your preference. If you like it spicier, you can add more green chilies or red chili powder.
- Vegan Option: To make this curry vegan, skip the cream and use coconut milk for the creamy texture.
- Flavor Boost: For an added depth of flavor, you can add kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end.
Why You’ll Love This Mushroom Curry:
- Healthy: Mushrooms are a low-calorie source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this curry both nutritious and delicious.
- Versatile: You can adjust the thickness of the curry according to your preference by varying the amount of water or broth.
- Flavorful: The combination of aromatic spices, earthy mushrooms, and creamy elements makes for an irresistible dish.
This mushroom curry recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a simple weekday meal, this dish promises to bring warmth and comfort to your table. Enjoy the delightful flavors!
