Mushroom Iguru
A bold, earthy Andhra-style stir-fry where plump mushrooms are cooked in a rich, spiced onion-tomato base. The masala coats every piece beautifully, with a deep hit of red chili and the warmth of garam masala. Quick to make and perfect with hot rice or roti.
For 4 servings
- prep
Wipe and quarter the mushrooms.
Wipe the mushrooms clean with a damp cloth. Trim the dry ends and cut each mushroom into quarters. Set aside.
- temper · ~1 min
Make the tempering.
1.Heat oil in a wide pan over medium heat until shimmering.2.Add mustard seeds and let them splutter (30 sec).3.Add cumin seeds, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Fry until fragrant (20 sec).TIPStand back when adding curry leaves — they sizzle and pop. - saute · ~18 min
Build the onion-tomato base.
1.Add chopped onions and slit green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn deep golden brown (8-10 min).2.Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears (1 min).3.Add chopped tomatoes, salt, and turmeric. Cook until tomatoes turn soft and mushy (5-6 min).4.Add red chili powder and coriander powder. Stir well and cook until oil separates from the sides (2-3 min).TIPPatiently browning the onions is key — this builds the deep, rich color of the iguru. - saute · ~5 min
Cook the mushrooms in the masala.
1.Add the quartered mushrooms to the pan. Stir gently to coat every piece with the masala.2.Cook on medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes. The mushrooms will release their moisture.3.Add ¼ cup water and mix well. Bring to a gentle simmer.TIPDon't add water before the mushrooms release their own liquid — the dish gets its earthy depth from cooking in that liquid first. - simmer · ~6 min
Simmer until thick and glossy.
Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and the gravy thickens to a semi-dry consistency that coats the mushrooms well.
TIPYou want a thick masala that clings to the mushrooms, not a watery gravy. - garnish · ~1 min
Finish with garam masala and coriander.
Sprinkle the garam masala over the dish and give it a gentle stir. Cook for 1 more minute. Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
TIPAdding garam masala at the very end keeps its aroma fresh and vibrant. - rest · ~5 min
Rest briefly before serving.
Let the Mushroom Iguru rest covered for 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always cook mushrooms on medium-high heat initially to sear them before they release moisture.
- 2Use a wide, heavy-bottomed pan to allow the masala to cook evenly without burning.
- 3For a deeper flavor, let the onion-tomato base cook until the oil visibly separates from the masala.
- 4Wipe mushrooms with a damp cloth — never wash them under running water, or they'll turn soggy.
- 5Add garam masala only at the end to preserve its delicate, warm aroma.
- 6Let the finished dish rest covered for 5 minutes so the flavors meld before serving.
- 7Use fresh curry leaves for the most authentic Andhra aroma.
Adapt it for your goals.
Low-oil
Reduce oil to 1 tablespoon and use a non-stick pan. The mushrooms release enough moisture to cook the masala without sticking.
high proteinHigh-protein
Add 200g of cubed paneer or boiled chickpeas along with the mushrooms for a heartier, protein-rich meal.
veganVegan
This recipe is already vegan — ensure the oil used is plant-based and skip the optional ghee finish.
jainJain
Omit garlic and onion; use asafoetida (hing) in the tempering and replace onion with grated bottle gourd or fennel bulb for sweetness.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in B Vitamins
Button mushrooms are a good source of riboflavin and niacin, which support energy metabolism and skin health.
Antioxidant Spices
Turmeric, cumin, and curry leaves provide natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
Low in Calories
This stir-fry is naturally low in calories while being high in flavor, making it a smart choice for weight management.
Supports Digestion
The cumin and coriander in the masala are traditional carminatives that aid digestion.
Frequently asked questions
Fresh mushrooms are strongly recommended — canned ones are already soft and will turn mushy during cooking.



