Mushroom 65 Recipe (Indian Style Spicy Mushrooms with Chillies)
Description:
Mushroom 65 is a tantalizing, crispy, and spicy appetizer that’s a popular fixture in South Indian restaurants. Although its exact origin is shrouded in mystery, some attribute it to the fiery Chettinad cuisine, while others trace it back to Andhra Pradesh. Regardless of where it comes from, this dish is perfect for those who love mushrooms and crave a burst of bold, spicy flavors. The blend of deep-fried mushrooms, aromatic spices, and the punch of green chilies makes this recipe a must-try for spice lovers.
Cuisine: Indian (South Indian Style)
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Button mushrooms | 300 grams (quartered) |
| Corn flour | 2 tablespoons |
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 2 tablespoons |
| Black pepper powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Tandoori masala | 2 teaspoons |
| Ginger | 1 inch (grated) |
| Garlic | 4 cloves (grated) |
| Curry leaves | 2 sprigs |
| Green chillies | 2 (slit) |
| Coriander (Dhania) leaves | 1 sprig (finely chopped) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | For deep frying and cooking |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Mushrooms:
Start by washing the button mushrooms thoroughly. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Once dry, quarter the mushrooms and set them aside. -
Make the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cornflour, all-purpose flour (maida), and a pinch of salt. Gradually add water, little by little, to make a thick batter. It should be thick enough to coat the mushrooms but not too runny. Once the batter is ready, add the quartered mushrooms into it and ensure they are evenly coated. Let the batter-coated mushrooms sit aside for a few minutes. -
Fry the Mushrooms:
Heat oil in a Kadai or wok on medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add a few battered mushrooms at a time. Fry the mushrooms in batches, ensuring that they are deep-fried until they turn golden brown and crispy. Drain the fried mushrooms on a paper towel to absorb excess oil and keep them aside. -
Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a separate Kadai or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil on medium heat. Add the grated ginger, garlic, green chilies, and curry leaves. Sautรฉ them for a couple of minutes until they release a fragrant aroma. -
Mix with Fried Mushrooms:
Add the fried mushrooms into the wok and stir well. Sprinkle the black pepper powder and tandoori masala over the mushrooms. Toss everything together so that the mushrooms are well-coated with the aromatic spices. Check for salt and adjust to taste. Continue stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until the flavors meld. -
Garnish and Serve:
Stir in the freshly chopped coriander leaves to add a burst of freshness. Turn off the heat and transfer the Mushroom 65 to a serving bowl. -
Serving Suggestion:
Serve the Mushroom 65 as a delicious appetizer for parties, get-togethers, or a savory snack. Pair it with a cool drink to balance the heat and spice.
Allergen Information:
- Gluten: This recipe contains gluten due to the use of all-purpose flour (maida).
- Dairy: No dairy ingredients are used in this recipe, making it suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals.
- Nuts: This recipe does not contain nuts but always double-check for any cross-contamination, especially in pre-packaged ingredients.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is completely vegetarian and perfect for those who follow a plant-based diet.
- Vegan: While the recipe is vegetarian, it can easily be made vegan by ensuring the ingredients (like the flour) do not contain any hidden animal products.
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Low-Carb: For a low-carb alternative, you may want to use almond flour instead of cornflour and all-purpose flour, though this may alter the texture slightly.
Tips for Making the Best Mushroom 65:
- Choosing Mushrooms: Button mushrooms are the most commonly used variety for Mushroom 65, but you can also try this recipe with oyster mushrooms or cremini mushrooms for different textures.
- Consistency of the Batter: The batter should be thick enough to coat the mushrooms without dripping off. If itโs too thin, add a little more flour to thicken it.
- Frying Tip: Be careful not to overcrowd the pan while frying. Fry in batches to ensure the mushrooms cook evenly and become crispy.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level according to your preference. If you like it less spicy, reduce the number of green chilies or use milder chili powders.
- Serving: To elevate the dish, serve the Mushroom 65 with a cool mint yogurt dip or tangy tamarind chutney.
Conclusion:
Mushroom 65 is a flavorful, crispy, and spicy appetizer thatโs perfect for any occasion, whether itโs a casual snack or a festive party. With a blend of aromatic spices like tandoori masala, black pepper, and fresh curry leaves, this dish brings the heat and the flavor in every bite. Easy to prepare, this recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy mushrooms in a vibrant and exciting new way. Try it for your next gathering and watch how quickly it disappears!
