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Smoky Mushroom Pepper Fry

This dish features earthy mushrooms sautéed with freshly cracked black pepper, creating a bold, smoky aroma and a tender, slightly crispy texture. The process involves stir-frying with garlic and ginger to enhance warmth and flavor, resulting in a comforting, home-cooked feel with a rich, caramelized appearance. Perfect served over rice or bread, it’s a quick yet soulful vegetarian delight.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: South Indian
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 300 g mushrooms shiitake or cremini, sliced into thick pieces
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil vegetable or sunflower oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp ginger grated
  • ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp black pepper whole peppercorns cracked fresh
  • Optional fresh herbs or lemon juice for garnish

Equipment

  • Wide skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Wooden spatula or tongs
  • Small bowl

Method
 

  1. Heat the oil in a wide skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, and gently add the sliced mushrooms in a single layer. Let them sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until they start to brown around the edges and release their juices.
  2. Stir the mushrooms gently with a wooden spatula or tongs, then add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, the mixture should emit a warm aroma and the garlic begins to turn slightly golden.
  3. Sprinkle the salt evenly over the mushrooms, then crack fresh black pepper directly into the pan, aiming for about 1 teaspoon. Turn the heat up to high and cook, stirring frequently, for another 2-3 minutes until the mushrooms are deeply browned and fragrant with smoky pepper aroma.
  4. Check the mushrooms—if they release too much water, continue cooking on high heat until the juices evaporate and the mushrooms develop a crispy, caramelized coating.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mushrooms rest for a minute to settle their flavors. Optionally, sprinkle with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness before serving.

Notes

For an extra smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika at the end. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, bread, or grilled meats. Adjust pepper amount according to your spice preference.