### Mushroom Masala Recipe: A Favored Indian Gravy Curry from Restaurants
Mushroom masala is a delightful and savory Indian gravy curry that has become incredibly popular in eateries throughout India. This dish is typically enjoyed with chapathi, lachcha paratha, or pulao, making it an adaptable choice for any dining experience. With its rich consistency and fragrant spices, mushroom masala will undoubtedly excite your palate.
#### Ingredients
– **Mushrooms**: 250 grams, sliced
– **Onion**: 1 large, chopped
– **Tomato**: 1 large, blanched and pureed
– **Ginger**: 1-inch piece, minced
– **Garlic**: 4-5 cloves, minced
– **Green Chilies**: 1-2, slit
– **Cashew Nuts**: 10-12, soaked in warm milk
– **Coriander Leaves**: for garnish
– **Spices**:
– Black Pepper: 5-6
– Cloves: 2-3
– Cinnamon: 1 small stick
– Turmeric Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
– Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
– Garam Masala: 1 teaspoon
– **Oil**: 2 tablespoons
– **Salt**: to taste
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Cashew Paste**: Drain the soaked cashew nuts and blend them with a small amount of milk to create a smooth paste. Set aside.
2. **Sauté the Base**: In a pan, heat oil over medium flame. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become golden brown. Add minced ginger, garlic, and green chilies, and cook for an additional minute.
3. **Make the Spice Paste**: Grind the sautéed onion mixture into a smooth paste, adding a little water if necessary.
4. **Cook the Tomato Puree**: In the same pan, incorporate the blanched tomato puree and sauté for several minutes until the oil begins to separate.
5. **Add Spices**: Mix in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and the ground spice paste (black pepper, cloves, cinnamon). Combine well and cook for a couple of minutes.
6. **Incorporate Mushrooms**: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and stir until they are thoroughly coated with the spice blend. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are soft.
7. **Finish with Cashew Paste**: Reduce the heat and mix the cashew paste into the mushroom mixture. Stir well and let simmer for another 5 minutes. Adjust the consistency with water if necessary.
8. **Season and Garnish**: Add garam masala and salt to your taste. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
#### Serving Suggestions
Mushroom masala complements chapathi, naan, lachcha paratha, or flavored pulao beautifully. The creamy texture and robust flavors make it a perfect dish for any occasion, from family dinners to festive gatherings.
#### Variations
You can easily adapt mushroom masala by including additional vegetables or modifying the spice levels to suit your taste. For a vegan alternative, substitute the milk with water or coconut milk while preparing the cashew paste.
#### Conclusion
Mushroom masala is a wondrous enhancement to any Indian meal, offering a superb mix of flavors and textures. Its straightforward preparation renders it accessible for both beginner and seasoned chefs. Attempt this recipe, and it will undoubtedly become a staple in your culinary collection!