Introduction:
Kadai Mushroom Recipe
Kadai Mushroom Recipe: Indulge in the delightful flavors of Kadai Mushroom with this simple, step-by-step photo recipe. Whether paired with plain basmati rice, roti, chapati, naan, or flavored rice variations like Jeera rice, Ghee rice, Coconut milk rice, or veg pulao, this dish made with pantry staples is not only easy to prepare but also a delicious treat that will keep you coming back for more.
About
Kadai Mushroom:
Kadai Mushroom is a spicy and flavorful North Indian dish crafted with button mushrooms, bell peppers, and a special spice blend known as Kadai Masala. Alongside these key ingredients, onions, tomatoes, and herbs are skillfully incorporated to create a dish that’s both aromatic and savory.
True to its name, Kadai Mushroom is cooked in a traditional Indian wok called a Kadai. This cooking method is a signature style for various North Indian dishes, such as Kadai Paneer and Kadai Chicken. The distinctive flavor in these dishes comes from the use of Kadai masala, a unique spice blend.
How to Make
Kadai Mushroom Recipe Gravy
Preparation:
In a grinder jar, combine:
- 1½ tablespoons coriander seeds
- 2 to 3 Kashmiri dried red chilies (or any hot chilies)
- 2 green cardamoms (optional)
- ½ teaspoon fennel seeds (optional)
- Grind the spices into a coarse powder to create the Kadai masala. Set it aside.
- Heat a pan with 1 tablespoon of oil. Sauté ¾ inch chopped ginger and 2 to 3 garlic cloves for a minute.
- Add 1 cup cubed onions (2 large) and sauté until they turn pink. Then add 1 cup chopped tomatoes (2 large) and ½ teaspoon salt. Mix and cook until the tomatoes are completely soft. Add 6 cashews to the pan.
- Allow the onion-tomato mixture to cool. Transfer it to a blender jar and make a smooth paste without adding water.
- Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Fry sliced mushrooms for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add ¼ to ½ cubed bell peppers (capsicum) and 1 medium onion (diced & layers separated). Sauté for another 2 to 3 minutes until a nice aroma emerges. Set aside on a plate.
Making the Gravy:
- Add another tablespoon of oil. Add the Kadai masala and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes on low heat. Then add the onion-tomato paste, red chili powder, and garam masala.
- Sauté well until the mixture leaves the pan.
- Pour 1 cup water, mix well to make a gravy. Adjust water as needed. Cover and cook until the gravy thickens with traces of oil.
- Add kasuri methi if using. Check and adjust salt. Mix well.
- Add fried mushrooms, capsicum, and onions. Mix well.
- Add sliced deseeded green chilies and ginger julienne. Cook covered for 2 to 3 minutes on low to medium heat. Garnish with a handful of chopped coriander leaves if desired.
- Serve Kadai Mushroom Gravy with rice or roti.
Recipe 2 –
Semi-Dry Kadai Mushroom Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1½ tablespoons oil
- 1 to 1½ teaspoons finely chopped or paste ginger
- ½ teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- 1/8 teaspoon turmeric
- ¼ teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 large onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 cup tomatoes (2 medium), finely chopped or pureed
- ¼ to ½ cup capsicum/bell pepper, sliced
- 1 ½ cups mushrooms, sliced (10 to 12 medium)
- 1 small onion, diced and layers separated
- Handful of chopped coriander leaves
To powder or coarsely crush:
- 3 to 4 red chilies
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon fennel seeds (saunf, sombu)
- 1 green cardamom
How to Make
Semi-Dry Kadai Mushroom Recipe:
- Grind red chilies, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds finely in a mixer jar.
- Heat oil in a hot pan. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until golden. (You can skip using onions to save time.)
- Add the ground Kadai masala powder and sauté on low heat until it becomes aromatic. Then add finely chopped ginger and sauté for 30 to 40 seconds until it turns aromatic.
- Add finely chopped tomatoes, salt, and turmeric. Sauté for a few minutes and cook covered until the tomatoes turn mushy. Taste-test the onion-tomato masala and add more red chili powder if desired. Pour ¼ cup water and cook until the masala thickens.
- Add sliced mushrooms, diced onions, bell pepper, garam masala, and kasuri methi. Mix and fry, stirring often for 3 to 4 minutes until the raw smell of the onions reduces.
- Cover and cook on low heat until mushrooms turn tender, absorbing flavors and releasing some moisture. If the veggies become too dry, sprinkle some water. Taste-test and adjust salt.
- Garnish Kadai Mushroom with chopped coriander and grated ginger.
Notes:
For a slightly creamy consistency, blend tomatoes with 10 cashews until smooth and use. After sautéing the mushrooms, pour a little water and cook until the gravy thickens and the mushrooms are done.
Pro Tips:
Kadai Mushroom Recipe
- Kadai masala is usually made with coriander powder, fennel seeds, red chilies, and some garam masala. You can use any ready-made kadai masala if whole spices and chilies are not available.
- Button mushrooms work best for this curry, but feel free to use any other kind.
- Experiment with other mixed veggies like potatoes, peas, and bell peppers. You can also add paneer.
- Adding a few cashews makes the gravy slightly rich. You can substitute with almonds or cream. If using cream, pour it towards the end.
Conclusion:
Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of Kadai Mushroom Recipe with these easy-to-follow recipes. Whether you prefer a luscious gravy or a semi-dry version, this North Indian delicacy is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe to suit your preferences, and enjoy this delightful dish with rice or roti for a satisfying meal. Happy cooking!
FAQs
About Kadai Mushroom Recipe
Can I use ready-made Kadai masala instead of making it at home?
Certainly! If you don’t have the individual spices mentioned, you can use a ready-made Kadai masala available in stores. Adjust the quantity according to your taste preferences.
What can I substitute for cashews in the gravy?
If you’re looking for a substitute, almonds can be a good option. Alternatively, you can omit them for a lighter version of the dish.
Is it necessary to use a Kadai for cooking this dish, or can I use a regular pan?
While using a Kadai adds to the authenticity, you can still prepare Kadai Mushroom Recipe in a regular pan. The key is in the spices and technique.
Can I customize the level of spiciness in the dish?
Absolutely! Adjust the quantity of red chili powder and green chilies according to your spice tolerance. You can always start with a smaller amount and add more later if needed.
How long can I store leftover Kadai Mushroom?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat before serving, and you’ll still enjoy its delicious flavors.
