🍄 Main Ingredients

• 200–250 grams mushrooms (cleaned and sliced)
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 2 medium tomatoes (pureed or finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1–2 green chilies (optional, chopped)
• 2 tablespoons cream or cashew paste (optional, for richness)
• Water as needed
• Salt to taste

🌶️ Spices

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), crushed

🌿 Optional Garnish

• Fresh coriander leaves (chopped)

🍄 1. Rich in Nutrients

Mushrooms are a low-calorie food packed with important vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins (B2, B3, B5), selenium, potassium, and copper.

🧠 2. Supports Brain and Nerve Health

The B vitamins in mushrooms help maintain healthy brain function, energy levels, and nerve health.

💪 3. Boosts Immunity

Mushrooms contain beta-glucans and antioxidants that enhance the immune system and help the body fight off infections.

🩺 4. Promotes Heart Health

Mushroom Masala is typically low in fat and cholesterol, and when cooked with minimal oil, it supports cardiovascular health and helps regulate blood pressure.

⚖️ 5. Supports Weight Management

High in fiber and protein yet low in calories, mushrooms help with satiety and can aid in healthy weight management.

🧴 6. Natural Anti-Inflammatory

Compounds found in mushrooms have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body and support overall wellness.

History

Mushroom Masala is a relatively modern addition to traditional Indian cuisine, reflecting the growing popularity of mushrooms as a meat substitute and a nutritious vegetable option in vegetarian diets. While mushrooms were not traditionally a staple in Indian kitchens, their earthy flavor and meaty texture made them a welcome addition as global culinary influences began merging with local tastes.

With India’s strong tradition of spice-rich gravies and vegetarian curries, mushrooms found a perfect place in dishes like Mushroom Masala. The dish draws inspiration from classic Indian gravies such as paneer butter masala and aloo matar, utilizing a base of tomatoes, onions, and aromatic spices to bring out the natural umami of mushrooms.

As mushrooms became more readily available in Indian markets and farming practices evolved, Mushroom Masala gained popularity not just in homes but also in restaurants and dhabas across the country. It is now commonly featured on vegetarian menus and enjoyed by both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike for its hearty texture and rich flavor.

Today, Mushroom Masala symbolizes the evolving landscape of Indian cuisine—where traditional flavors meet new ingredients, creating dishes that are both comforting and contemporary.