Mushroom Bhaji
Mushroom Bhaji is a delightful dish that showcases the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the fragrant spices of Indian cuisine. This dish not only serves as a scrumptious side but can also be enjoyed as a main course.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green chili, seeds removed and diced
- 14 ounces mushrooms, sliced in halves (400 g)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ¼ cup water (60 ml)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients. Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure your mushrooms are fresh and that you have everything else on hand before you start cooking. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and prepare the green chili by removing the seeds and chopping it finely.
- Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Chili. In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the green chili and continue to sauté for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the spice to release its aroma.
- Step 3: Add the Mushrooms. Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Stir well to ensure they are evenly coated with the onion and chili mixture. Cook the mushrooms for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their juices.
- Step 4: Introduce the Garlic and Spices. Once the mushrooms have cooked down, add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, sprinkle in the ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, ground turmeric, and garam masala. Mix everything thoroughly to coat the mushrooms in the spices.
- Step 5: Add Tomato Paste and Water. Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring it’s well distributed throughout the mixture. Then, add ¼ cup of water to the pan. This will help the spices dissolve and create a beautiful sauce for the mushrooms. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Step 6: Season and Simmer. Add ½ teaspoon of salt to the mix and allow the Mushroom Bhaji to simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully. If you prefer a thicker consistency, let it cook a bit longer; for a saucier bhaji, feel free to add a splash more water.
- Step 7: Serve and Enjoy. Once the Mushroom Bhaji is cooked to your desired consistency, turn off the heat and serve hot. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, roti, or naan. Don’t forget to garnish it with fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor!
Notes
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of butter or ghee along with the olive oil. Feel free to vary the types of mushrooms used; shiitake, portobello, or cremini all work wonderfully.