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Mushroom Bhaji

Mushroom bhaji is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the earthy, umami-rich qualities of mushrooms. The preparation involves sautéing sliced mushrooms with onions, garlic, and warming spices until tender and deeply aromatic, resulting in a tender, slightly crispy, and smoky dish perfect as a side or main. Its appearance is dark, glossy, and inviting, with a fragrant aroma filling the kitchen.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • 300 g mushrooms (cremini or baby bella) sliced about 0.5 cm thick
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin toasting releases aroma
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric for warmth and color
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable or mustard oil for sautéing and flavor
  • 1 ripe tomato chopped
  • to taste salt to season
  • a handful cilantro or parsley chopped, for garnish
  • 1 squeeze lemon for brightness

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Start by heating the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and fragrant. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté, stirring often, for about 5 minutes until they turn golden and smell sweet.
  2. Add the minced garlic along with the ground cumin and turmeric. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring gently, until the spices release their aroma and become fragrant.
  3. Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms, stirring well to coat them evenly with the spice mixture. Continue cooking over high heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms shrink, darken, and release a smoky aroma.
  4. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, creating a rich, slightly saucy texture.
  5. Season with salt to taste and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the mushrooms to become tender and slightly crispy around the edges.
  6. Finish by stirring in chopped cilantro or parsley, then squeeze a little lemon juice over the top. Give everything a final stir, then remove from heat and serve warm, garnished with extra herbs if desired.