Mushroom Masala Curry|Mushroom Curry

Mushroom Masala Curry|Mushroom Curry ..

Mushroom Masala Curry Recipe

Mushroom Masala Curry is a flavorful and aromatic Indian dish that combines tender mushrooms with a rich, spicy, and creamy tomato-onion gravy. Perfect for pairing with naan, roti, or steamed rice, this dish is a vegetarian favorite that brings together the warmth of Indian spices with the earthy flavors of mushrooms.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Curry Base:

• 250 grams button mushrooms (cleaned and sliced)
• 2 medium onions (finely chopped)
• 2 medium tomatoes (pureed)
• 2 green chilies (slit lengthwise)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 10-12 cashews (soaked in warm water for 20 minutes, then ground into a paste)
• 2-3 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 2-3 cloves
• 1-2 cardamom pods

Spices:

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel powder (optional)
• Salt to taste

For Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons fresh cream (optional)
• Fresh coriander leaves (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), crushed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation

1. Clean the Mushrooms:

   • Rinse the mushrooms thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
   • Slice them evenly to ensure uniform cooking.

2. Prepare Cashew Paste:

   • Soak the cashews in warm water for 20 minutes.
   • Blend them into a smooth paste using a few tablespoons of water.

3. Tomato Puree:

• Blend the tomatoes into a smooth puree and set aside.

Mushroom Masala Curry|Mushroom Curry ..

Cooking the Curry

Step 1: Sauté the Spices

1. Heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a deep pan or kadhai over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pods. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Onions

4. Add the finely chopped onions and cook until golden brown. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor.
5. Stir frequently to prevent burning.

Step 3: Add Ginger-Garlic Paste

6. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.

Step 4: Tomato Base

7. Add the tomato puree and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mixture should thicken, and the oil should start to separate from the sides.

Step 5: Incorporate Spices

8. Reduce the heat and add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and fennel powder (if using). Mix well and cook for another 1-2 minutes to bloom the spices.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms

9. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Stir well to coat them with the masala.
10. Cook the mushrooms for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Mushrooms will release some water; let this cook off for a concentrated flavor.

Step 7: Cashew Paste and Simmering

11. Add the cashew paste and mix thoroughly. This gives the curry a creamy and nutty texture.
12. Pour in about 1/2 cup of water (adjust as needed for desired consistency).
13. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 8: Final Touches

14. Add garam masala powder and crushed kasuri methi. Mix well.
15. Stir in fresh cream (if using) for an extra creamy texture.
16. Taste the curry and adjust salt and spice levels as needed.

Serving

• Transfer the Mushroom Masala Curry to a serving bowl.
• Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
• Serve hot with steamed basmati rice, jeera rice, naan, or paratha.

Tips for the Perfect Mushroom Masala Curry

1. Mushroom Selection:

   • Use fresh and firm mushrooms for the best texture and flavor.
   • Button mushrooms are commonly used, but you can experiment with cremini or portobello mushrooms.

2. Balancing Spices:

   • Adjust the quantity of chili powder and green chilies according to your spice preference.
   • If you like a sweeter note, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.

3. Creaminess:

   • For a vegan version, substitute fresh cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.

4. Consistency:

   • The curry can be made thick or slightly runny, depending on your serving choice. Add water or reduce it to get the desired consistency.

5. Kasuri Methi:

   • Crushing dried fenugreek leaves before adding them enhances their aroma and blends well into the dish.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 180-200 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g

Mushroom Masala Curry|Mushroom Curry ..

Variations

1. Add Peas:

   • Adding green peas (matar) to the curry introduces a slightly sweet flavor and a contrasting texture.

2. Paneer and Mushroom:

   • Combine mushrooms with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cubes for a richer dish.

3. Coconut Flavor:

   • Add coconut milk instead of cream for a South Indian twist.

4. Spicier Version:

• Use freshly ground whole spices for an intense flavor. Adding a teaspoon of spicy curry powder or a pinch of black pepper can also enhance the heat.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration:
  • Store leftover Mushroom Masala Curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating:
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or cream if the curry thickens after refrigeration.

Cultural Significance and Pairings

Mushroom Masala Curry is a versatile dish in Indian cuisine, reflecting the richness of North Indian gravies. It's a popular choice in vegetarian households and restaurants due to its hearty texture and ability to absorb the bold flavors of Indian spices.

Pairing options include:

• Flatbreads: Butter naan, garlic naan, or plain roti.
• Rice Dishes: Steamed rice, jeera rice, or pulao.
• Side Dishes: Serve with a refreshing cucumber raita or a tangy mango pickle for a balanced meal.

This Mushroom Masala Curry recipe combines authenticity with versatility, making it an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the burst of flavors with every bite, and share it with family and friends for a memorable dining experience.

Mushroom Masala Curry|Mushroom Curry ..