There’s a certain warmth that fills the kitchen when I make Matar Mushroom Curry. As the vibrant colors of fresh tomatoes and green peas blend together in a pot, an enticing aroma wafts through the air, instantly lifting my spirits. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a loving reminder of cozy family dinners, where each bite transports you to the heart of Punjabi cuisine.
After a whirlwind week of takeaway dinners, I found myself yearning for something homemade and satisfying, yet effortless. When I stumbled upon this simple vegan recipe, featuring hearty mushrooms nestled in a savory, tomato-based gravy with no onion or garlic, I knew I had found a new favorite. Perfect for any night of the week, this delicious curry is versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences while still bursting with flavors that will make even the most devoted fast-food lover pause for a moment of appreciation.
Join me in discovering how a handful of fresh ingredients can create a hearty dish that’s both nourishing and utterly delicious!
Why is Matar Mushroom curry special?
Delicious and comforting, this Matar Mushroom Curry is a delightful homage to Punjabi cuisine that warms your soul.
- Vegan-Friendly: No animal products in sight, catering to diverse dietary needs.
- Simple Preparation: Quick and easy recipe, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: Rich tomato gravy filled with earthy mushrooms and sweet peas delights every palate.
- No Fuss Cooking: Made without onion and garlic, it’s a hassle-free dish that still delivers on taste.
- Endless Variations: Easily customize with seasonal veggies or spice levels, keeping it exciting every time!
Dive into a bowl of comforting goodness with this must-try recipe!
Matar Mushroom Curry Ingredients
• Perfect for a cozy night in!
For the Base
- Mushrooms – 500 gms. Main ingredient providing a hearty texture; use fresh or gently rinsed mushrooms.
- Tomatoes – 6 medium. Imparts acidity and depth to the gravy; fresh tomatoes are preferred.
- Green Peas – 2.5 cups. Adds sweetness and color; can be fresh or frozen.
- Green Chillies – 3. Adjusts heat; feel free to modify based on your spice tolerance.
- Ginger – 1 inch. Enhances flavor profile; fresh ginger is recommended.
- Cashew Nuts – 10, soaked. Adds creaminess to the sauce; can substitute with more cream if desired.
For the Spices
- Turmeric Powder – 1/2 tsp. Provides vibrant color and health benefits.
- Mango Powder – 1/2 tsp. Adds a tangy kick to the curry.
- Red Chilli Powder – 1 tsp. Perfect for tailoring the spice level; adjust to your taste.
- Salt – To taste. Essential for enhancing flavor.
- Cardamom Powder – 1/3 tsp. Contributes a distinct aromatic quality.
- Coriander Powder – 1.5 tsp. Acts as a flavor base that rounds out the dish.
- Garam Masala Powder – 1/4 tsp. A finishing touch for depth and warmth.
For Cooking
- Cooking Oil – 4 tbsp. Necessary for sautéing and adding flavor.
- Cumin – 3/4 tsp. Provides a nutty aroma and depth to your curry.
- Bay Leaves – 2. Infuse subtle flavor during the cooking process.
For Garnishing
- Fresh Coriander – 4 tbsp, chopped. Offers a burst of freshness to your dish.
This Matar Mushroom Curry recipe is not just about the ingredients; it’s about the love and warmth that fills your kitchen when you cook. Enjoy making this delightful dish!
How to Make Matar Mushroom Curry
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Soak cashew pieces in warm water for 30 minutes. This softens them, making it easy to blend into a creamy paste later.
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Prepare the mushrooms by wiping or rinsing them and slicing into quarters or sixths. Fresh mushrooms will provide the best texture and flavor.
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Blend the soaked cashews, chopped tomatoes, green chillies, and ginger into a smooth paste. This base will create a rich, creamy gravy.
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Heat oil in a pan; add cumin seeds and bay leaves until the cumin is golden. This infuses the oil with aromatic flavors, setting a lovely foundation for your curry.
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Stir in the tomato-cashew paste. Cook until thickened, stirring regularly, approximately 5-7 minutes. Aim for a vibrant color and fragrant aroma!
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Incorporate the spices, then add sliced mushrooms and peas. Sauté for 2 minutes, allowing the veggies to soak up those delicious flavors.
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Pour in 2 cups of water; bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and cook until mushrooms are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
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Adjust the water based on desired gravy thickness. If it’s too watery, cook uncovered on high for 2-3 minutes for a thicker consistency.
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Finish by adding garam masala and cardamom powder. Garnish with fresh coriander before serving to brighten the dish!
Optional: Serve with warm naan, chapati, or rice for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Matar Mushroom Curry?
As you prepare to enjoy this delightful curry, consider these irresistible pairings that bring balance and harmony to your dining experience.
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Warm Naan: The soft, pillowy texture of naan is perfect for scooping up the rich curry, creating a delightful contrast in every bite.
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Steamed Basmati Rice: The fragrant grains absorb all those delicious flavors, allowing you to savor the aromatic goodness of the Matar Mushroom Curry fully.
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Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt side dish complements the warmth and spices of the curry, providing a refreshing break with every mouthful.
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Spicy Pickles: A tangy, spicy Indian pickle adds an exciting burst of flavor, enhancing the meal with its bold, zesty profile.
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Roasted Vegetable Platter: Colorful roasted veggies add an earthy crunch, completing the meal with a medley of textures and flavors that harmonize beautifully.
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Mango Lassi: A sweet mango lassi balances the spice with its smooth, creamy texture, making it a delightful drink option alongside your curry.
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Lemon-Infused Quinoa: Nutty quinoa infused with lemon brightens up the meal, offering a light and zesty base that pairs wonderfully with the curry’s richness.
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Chickpea Salad: A refreshing salad filled with protein-packed chickpeas and crisp vegetables adds nutritional value while keeping the meal light and fresh.
With these delicious sides, your Matar Mushroom Curry will shine even brighter, turning a simple dish into a memorable feast!
Matar Mushroom Variations
Embrace your creativity in the kitchen and customize this delightful dish with these fun twists!
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Vegetable Swap: Substitute mushrooms with cauliflower or zucchini for a different texture, keeping the curry fresh and exciting. These vegetables absorb flavors beautifully, making every bite enjoyable.
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Bell Peppers: Add colorful bell peppers for extra sweetness and crunch, bringing vibrant hues to your curry. This variation not only boosts nutrition but also enhances the dish’s visual appeal.
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Coconut Cream: Incorporate coconut cream instead of cashews for a rich, tropical twist. This creamy addition can also make the dish slightly sweeter, balancing the spices beautifully.
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Lentil Boost: Mix in cooked lentils for added protein and a heartier dish. This twist will create a more fulfilling curry experience that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner.
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Heat Adjustments: For a spicier kick, increase the number of green chillies or add a dash of red chilli flakes. Spice it up to suit your taste buds, transforming the curry into a fiery delight!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with additional herbs like mint or basil for a refreshing element. This twist introduces delightful aromas that elevate the classic flavors.
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Garlic-Free Oil: Use garlic-infused oil instead of regular cooking oil for a subtle garlic flavor without actual bits in your Matar Mushroom Curry. This maintains the no garlic requirement while delivering satisfying essence.
Expert Tips for Matar Mushroom Curry
- Mushroom Care: Always rinse mushrooms quickly to avoid moisture absorption; soaking can make them slimy in the curry.
- Consistency Check: Gauge water levels carefully to achieve your ideal gravy thickness; reducing water can yield a richer curry.
- Creamy Flavor: For a luxurious touch, consider adding fresh cream at the end—this elevates the Matar Mushroom Curry to another level!
- Pre-Cook Peas: If using fresh peas, try boiling them separately before adding to ensure they cook perfectly in the dish.
- Spice Customization: Feel free to adjust the spice levels by increasing green chillies or red chilli powder, tailoring the Matar Mushroom Curry to your taste.
Storage Tips for Matar Mushroom Curry
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors locked in while maintaining freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the curry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure it’s completely cool before sealing.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to restore consistency.
- Thawing: If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results with the Matar Mushroom Curry.
Make Ahead Options
These Matar Mushroom Curry ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables and soak the cashews up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them stored in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the tomato-cashew paste and refrigerate it for the same duration. This not only saves time on busy weeknights but also ensures that the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil, sauté the spices, and add your prepped ingredients, allowing the dish to come together beautifully. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll enjoy the same delicious, comforting taste of Matar Mushroom Curry with minimal effort!
Matar Mushroom Curry Recipe FAQs
What type of mushrooms should I use for Matar Mushroom Curry?
I recommend using fresh, firm mushrooms, such as button or cremini, as they add a hearty texture to the curry. If you have access to shiitake or portobello, feel free to use those as well! Just make sure to wipe or rinse them quickly to avoid excessive moisture before slicing.
How long can I store Matar Mushroom Curry in the refrigerator?
You can store Matar Mushroom Curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain the desired consistency.
Can I freeze Matar Mushroom Curry?
Absolutely! To freeze your Matar Mushroom Curry, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove, adding a little water if it becomes too thick.
How can I adjust the spice level in the curry?
To customize the heat in your Matar Mushroom Curry, simply modify the amount of green chillies or red chilli powder based on your preference. Start with fewer chillies when you blend the paste, and taste as you cook, adding more if you desire a spicier result.
Are there any allergens in this recipe?
While this Matar Mushroom Curry is naturally free from major allergens, it does contain cashew nuts, which some individuals may be allergic to. If you’re cooking for someone with nut allergies, you can substitute the cashews with more cream or omit them altogether for a slightly less creamy texture.
What if my curry becomes too watery?
If your Matar Mushroom Curry turns out too watery, don’t fret! Simply cook it uncovered on high heat for about 2-3 minutes to help reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) to thicken it up while cooking.
Matar Mushroom Curry: Easy Vegan Delight without Onion or Garlic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak cashew pieces in warm water for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the mushrooms by wiping or rinsing and slicing into quarters or sixths.
- Blend soaked cashews, chopped tomatoes, green chillies, and ginger into a smooth paste.
- Heat oil in a pan; add cumin seeds and bay leaves until the cumin is golden.
- Stir in the tomato-cashew paste and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Incorporate the spices, then add sliced mushrooms and peas. Sauté for 2 minutes.
- Pour in 2 cups of water; bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and cook until mushrooms are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Adjust the water for desired gravy thickness.
- Finish by adding garam masala and cardamom powder, and garnish with fresh coriander.