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Mushroom Bhaji

This mushroom bhaji is a simple, comforting Indian-inspired dish that highlights the earthy umami of mushrooms through quick sautéing with warm spices. The dish has a tender, slightly crispy texture with a fragrant, smoky aroma, finished with fresh herbs. It’s perfect as a flavorful side or a hearty vegetarian main, made in just a few easy steps.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups sliced mushrooms cremini or shiitake preferred
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 1 cup tomato chopped or canned
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 inch ginger grated
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 2 tablespoons oil vegetable or sunflower preferred
  • salt to taste salt
  • 1/4 cup cilantro chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed skillet or pan
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Knife
  • Chopping board

Method
 

  1. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat until shimmering and slightly fragrant.
  2. Add cumin seeds and cook for about 20 seconds until they crackle and release a warm aroma.
  3. Toss in the chopped onion and cook, stirring often, for 5–7 minutes until translucent and starting to caramelize, filling the kitchen with a sweet, nutty smell.
  4. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure they don’t burn.
  5. Sprinkle in turmeric, cumin, and coriander powders, stirring for another 30 seconds until the spices toast and fill the air with a warm, earthy scent.
  6. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan, stirring well to coat them with spices. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften, turn golden brown, and develop a smoky aroma.
  7. Stir in the chopped tomato and season with salt. Cook for another 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and the tomatoes break down, releasing a vibrant, fragrant sauce.
  8. Adjust salt or spices to taste, and cook a few more minutes if needed to reach a thick, glossy consistency that coats the mushrooms evenly.
  9. Turn off the heat and stir in chopped cilantro, letting the aroma of fresh herbs mingle with the smoky spices for about 2 minutes.
  10. Serve the mushroom bhaji hot, garnished with extra cilantro if desired, alongside bread, rice, or enjoyed on its own for a cozy, satisfying meal.