Kadai Mushroom Recipe: A Flavorful Indian Delight
Kadai Mushroom is a tantalizing, spicy vegetable dish that can be adjusted to your preferred spice level. Traditionally made with button mushrooms, this recipe uses Portobello mushrooms for a deeper flavor. The mushrooms are chopped and simmered in a rich tomato and garlic-based gravy, with the addition of bell pepper (capsicum) for extra flavor and texture. A perfect choice for lunch or dinner, this dish pairs wonderfully with Dal Tadka, Burani Raita, and Tawa Paratha.
Recipe Overview:
- Cuisine: Indian
- Course: Lunch
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Button mushrooms (Portobello) | 400 grams |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Tomato | 3, chopped |
| Capsicum (green) | 1, finely chopped |
| Green chilies | 3, chopped |
| Ginger | 1/2 inch |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Coriander leaves | Chopped, for garnish |
| Cumin seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Fenugreek seeds | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
| Cloves | 4 |
| Whole black pepper | 4 |
| Cinnamon stick | 1 small |
| Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | For making the puree |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Mushrooms:
Start by washing the mushrooms thoroughly (4-5 times) to remove any dirt. Once cleaned, chop the mushrooms into bite-sized pieces and set aside. -
Make Tomato Puree:
Take a jar and add chopped tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and a little water. Grind everything together to form a smooth, thick paste. -
Cooking the Base:
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan on medium heat. Add cumin seeds, bay leaves, fenugreek seeds, cloves, whole black pepper, and cinnamon stick. Let these spices sizzle for about 15 seconds, releasing their fragrance. -
Add Onions and Capsicum:
Once the spices are fragrant, add finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they soften and become translucent. Then, add the chopped green capsicum and cook for another 2 minutes. -
Add Tomato Puree and Spices:
Pour in the prepared tomato puree and stir well. Let this mixture cook for a few minutes until it starts to boil. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt to taste. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to blend well. -
Cook the Mushrooms:
Add the chopped mushrooms to the pan and mix everything well. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender. -
Final Touches:
Once the mushrooms are soft and cooked through, remove from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. -
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Kadai Mushroom hot with Dal Tadka, Burani Raita, and Tawa Paratha for a satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less green chilies and chili powder, depending on your taste.
- You can substitute Portobello mushrooms with other types of mushrooms like button mushrooms or cremini for a different flavor.
- For a richer gravy, add a splash of cream at the end of cooking.
Kadai Mushroom is an aromatic and flavorful dish that brings together the earthy taste of mushrooms with the bold spices of Indian cuisine. Whether you’re hosting a special meal or enjoying a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress!
