Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy vegetarian meal? Look no further! This Mushroom Mutter Masala recipe is your answer. This quick dinner idea combines earthy mushrooms with sweet peas in a vibrant, aromatic sauce – a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights and impresses even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is perfect for you. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ¼ teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for richness)
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and lightly golden, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Bloom Spices: Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder to the pan. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This process, called blooming, releases the full flavor of the spices.
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Add Mushrooms and Peas: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the frozen peas.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded.
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Season and Finish: Season the Mushroom Mutter Masala with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in the heavy cream for extra richness. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Mushroom Mutter Masala:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When sautéing the mushrooms, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will ensure that they brown properly and don't steam. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust spice levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder according to your preference. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount or omit it altogether.
- Fresh is best: While frozen peas are convenient, using fresh peas will enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Just remember to add them towards the end of the cooking time so they don't overcook.
Variations:
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chickpeas, lentils, or paneer (Indian cheese) to the Mushroom Mutter Masala.
- Spice it up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of garam masala or a chopped green chili pepper along with the ginger and garlic.
- Creamy coconut: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk for a richer, more exotic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Around 8-10 grams
- Fiber: Around 5-7 grams
This Mushroom Mutter Masala is a delicious and healthy vegetarian meal perfect for any occasion. It's quick, easy, and packed with flavor – a true testament to the beauty of simple, homemade cooking. Serve it with rice, naan bread, or roti for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy!