# Matar Mushroom Recipe: A Creamy, Restaurant-Style Indian Mushroom Gravy
Matar mushroom curry is a delightful vegetarian meal that blends the earthy tastes of mushrooms with the sweetness of fresh green peas (matar) in a luxurious, spiced gravy. This dish is ideal for a warm dinner, especially during the winter season when fresh peas are plentiful. Paired with naan or chapati, matar mushroom is sure to wow your family and guests alike.
### The Essence of Matar Mushroom
Matar mushroom is frequently found in Indian kitchens, commonly served as a side for chapati or rice. The mix of mushrooms and peas creates a visually appealing dish and provides a rich source of nutrients. The creamy gravy, crafted with cashew nuts and fresh cream, enhances the flavors and textures, providing a restaurant-quality experience right in your home.
### Ingredients
To create this scrumptious dish, gather the following ingredients:
– **For the Gravy:**
– 2 cups fresh green peas (matar)
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 2 medium-sized tomatoes, blanched and pureed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1-2 green chilies, slit
– 1/4 cup cashew nuts (soaked in warm water)
– 1/2 cup fresh cream (or coconut milk for a vegan option)
– 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons ghee or butter
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
### Preparation Steps
1. **Blanching the Tomatoes:**
– Begin by blanching the tomatoes. Boil water in a pot, add the tomatoes, and let them simmer for about 5 minutes. Remove them, cool, peel, and blend into a puree.
2. **Making the Gravy:**
– In a pan, heat ghee or butter over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.
– Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
– Incorporate the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for another minute until aromatic.
– Stir in the tomato puree, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
3. **Adding Cashews:**
– Blend the soaked cashew nuts with a small amount of water to create a smooth paste. Mix this paste into the gravy for a rich and creamy texture.
4. **Cooking the Mushrooms and Peas:**
– In a separate pan, sauté the sliced mushrooms in a bit of ghee or butter until lightly browned. Combine them with the gravy along with the fresh green peas.
– Add a little water to achieve the right consistency and let it simmer for around 10 minutes.
5. **Finishing Touches:**
– Stir in fresh cream and blend well. Sprinkle with garam masala and mix. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
– Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
### Serving Suggestions
Matar mushroom is best paired with Indian flatbreads such as naan or chapati. It can also be enjoyed with steamed rice or jeera rice for a complete meal.
### Tips for Perfect Matar Mushroom
– **Vegan Option:** To make it vegan, replace fresh cream with coconut milk or cooked pumpkin puree.
– **Make Ahead:** You can prepare the gravy ahead of time and freeze it. When ready to eat, just sauté the mushrooms, add them to the gravy, and simmer for a quick and easy meal.
– **Adjust Spices:** Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. Adding a pinch of sugar may balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
### Conclusion
Matar mushroom is a versatile and delicious dish that highlights the best of Indian vegetarian cooking. With its creamy consistency and rich flavors, it’s destined to become a favorite in your home. Whether for a family meal or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to leave an impression. Be sure to include it in your list of must-try Indian mushroom recipes!
Enjoy the process of cooking and relishing this delightful matar mushroom curry!