If you’re looking for a delightful dish that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the sweetness of peas, look no further than Mushroom Matar. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for any meal. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the ingredients, preparation, and cooking process for this delicious Mushroom Matar recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The first step in making Mushroom Matar is gathering all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 300-400 grams of mushrooms
- 200 grams of green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1-2 green chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1-2 dried red chilies
- Salt to taste
- Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Cooking oil
- Water as needed
Preparing the Mushrooms
Preparation is key for a successful Mushroom Matar. Start by cleaning the mushrooms. You can simply wipe them with a damp cloth to remove any dirt. Then, remove the stems and peel the mushrooms as shown below:
Once cleaned, chop the mushrooms into slices. You can cut them into halves or quarters depending on your preference. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
Making the Gravy
Now that we have our mushrooms ready, it’s time to prepare the gravy. Heat some cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and dried red chilies. This will give the oil a beautiful color and flavor.
Next, add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden. This might take about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Stir well and cook for another minute.
Once the onions are nicely cooked, add the chopped tomatoes (or tomato puree) to the pan. Cook this mixture until the tomatoes are soft and the oil starts to separate from the gravy. This is a crucial step as it builds the base flavor of your dish.
Cooking the Peas and Mushrooms
At this point, add the green peas to the pan. If you’re using frozen peas, there’s no need to thaw them. Just toss them in directly. Stir everything together and let it cook for a few minutes.
Now, sprinkle in the kasuri methi. To release its flavor, rub it between your palms before adding it to the dish. This enhances the aroma and taste of the dish significantly. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 4-5 minutes.
Finishing Touches
After the peas are cooked through, it’s time to add the mushrooms. Since mushrooms cook quickly, you want to add them last. Stir them into the gravy and let everything simmer together for another 5-7 minutes. Feel free to add a splash of water if the gravy is too thick.
Finally, adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding salt and garam masala. Stir well and let the dish cook for a few more minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions
Your Mushroom Matar is now ready to be served! This dish pairs perfectly with basmati rice, naan, or roti. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving for an added touch.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Mushroom Matar is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also a healthy dish packed with nutrients. Mushrooms provide umami flavor and are a great source of vitamins, while peas add sweetness and fiber. This curry is also versatile, allowing you to add other vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers if you wish.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Mushroom Matar
- Always use fresh mushrooms for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by adding more or fewer green chilies.
- If you want a creamier texture, add a splash of coconut milk or cream towards the end of cooking.
- Feel free to experiment with additional spices like cumin or coriander for extra depth of flavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mushroom Matar is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Give this recipe a try, and you won’t be disappointed!
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