# Chilli Mushroom Recipe: An Indian Chinese Starter in Restaurant Style
Chilli mushroom is a scrumptious appetizer from Indian Chinese cuisine that merges crunchy textures with a blend of sweet, sour, and spicy tastes. This dish is not only a standout in eateries but also a cherished comfort dish that you can effortlessly whip up at home. Whether you’re throwing a gathering or just in search of a tasty starter, chilli mushroom is guaranteed to impress.
## The Charm of Chilli Mushroom
Chilli mushroom remains a favored option for food enthusiasts, particularly those who relish the combination of Indian and Chinese flavors. This dish consists of golden-fried mushrooms coated in a savory sauce that unites a spectrum of tastes and textures. The crispy shell of the mushrooms beautifully contrasts with their soft interior, creating a delightful experience with every bite.
### Ideal Pairings
Chilli mushroom can be savored alone as an appetizer or complemented with other dishes for a full meal. It pairs wonderfully with:
– **Vegetable Fried Rice**
– **Mushroom Fried Rice**
– **Noodles with Sweet and Sour Vegetables**
– **Sweet Corn Vegetable Soup**
These choices not only elevate the meal but also provide a fulfilling dining experience that embodies the spirit of Indo-Chinese cuisine.
## Ingredients for Chilli Mushroom
To create this mouthwatering appetizer, you will require the following ingredients:
### For the Mushrooms:
– 250 grams of button mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup corn flour
– Water (as needed for the batter)
– Oil (for deep frying)
### For the Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons red chili paste (prepared from soaked and blended dry red chilies)
– 1 tablespoon minced ginger
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– 1 tablespoon corn flour (blended with water to form a slurry)
– 1/2 cup chopped spring onions
– 1/2 cup diced green capsicum
– Salt to taste
## Preparation Steps
### 1. Create the Red Chili Paste
– Soak dry red chilies in warm water for approximately 15-20 minutes.
– Drain and blend the chilies into a smooth paste. Set aside.
### 2. Prepare the Batter
– In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, corn flour, and a pinch of salt.
– Gradually incorporate water to create a smooth batter thick enough to coat the mushrooms.
### 3. Fry the Mushrooms
– Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
– Dip each mushroom half into the batter, ensuring it’s thoroughly covered.
– Carefully place the battered mushrooms into the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy.
– Remove and drain on paper towels.
### 4. Make the Sauce
– In another pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
– Add minced ginger and garlic, sautéing until aromatic.
– Incorporate the red chili paste, soy sauce, tomato sauce, sugar, and vinegar. Cook for a few minutes.
– Add the corn flour slurry to thicken the sauce, stirring continuously.
– Toss in the fried mushrooms, spring onions, and green capsicum. Mix well to coat the mushrooms in the sauce.
### 5. Present
– Transfer the chilli mushroom to a serving dish. Garnish with extra spring onions if desired.
– Serve hot with toothpick skewers for easy enjoyment, and watch your guests savor each bite!
## Conclusion
Chilli mushroom is an irresistible appetizer that brings the lively flavors of Indian Chinese cuisine right into your home. With its crunchy texture and an ideal blend of sweet, sour, and spicy notes, this dish is destined to become a household favorite. Whether for an informal dinner or a festive celebration, chilli mushroom is a must-try recipe that will leave everyone craving more. Enjoy your culinary journey!