Sauteed Mushrooms
Tender, earthy mushrooms tossed with fragrant onions, garlic, and a blend of classic Indian spices. A simple, savory, and quick vegetarian side dish, also known as Mushroom Masala Fry, that comes together in under 25 minutes.
For 4 servings
8 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Heat oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pan or skillet over medium-high heat
- a.Once the oil is shimmering, add the cumin seeds and allow them to splutter for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chili. Continue to sauté for another minute until the raw aroma of garlic disappears.
- 3
Reduce the heat to low
- a.Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Stir continuously for 30-45 seconds, ensuring the spices don't burn. This step toasts the spices and deepens their flavor.
- 4
Immediately add the sliced mushrooms and salt to the pan
- a.Toss everything together thoroughly to coat the mushrooms evenly with the spice mixture.
- 5
Increase the heat back to medium-high
- a.Cook the mushrooms, stirring occasionally. They will begin to release a significant amount of water. Continue cooking for about 5-7 minutes.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Once most of the water has evaporated, continue to sauté the mushrooms for another 3-5 minutes, allowing them to brown slightly and develop a rich, roasted flavor. The final dish should be semi-dry.
- 7
Turn off the heat
- a.Finish the dish by sprinkling garam masala, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and chopped coriander leaves. Give it a final gentle stir to combine.
- 8
Let it rest for a minute before serving
- a.Serve hot as a side dish with roti, paratha, or alongside dal and rice.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, do not rinse mushrooms under running water as they act like sponges. Instead, wipe them clean with a damp paper towel.
- 2Do not overcrowd the pan. Cooking in a single layer helps the mushrooms sauté and brown rather than steam. Use a wide pan or cook in batches if necessary.
- 3High heat is key to evaporating the mushroom's moisture quickly, which prevents them from becoming soggy and helps develop a deep, savory flavor.
- 4Add the salt along with the mushrooms. Salt helps draw out the water from the mushrooms, which is essential for this cooking process.
- 5For a richer flavor, you can use ghee instead of vegetable oil.
Adapt it for your goals.
Creamy Mushroom Masala
After the mushrooms are cooked, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream or cashew cream and simmer for a minute for a richer, gravy-based dish.
Mushroom MatarMushroom Matar
Add 1/2 cup of green peas (fresh or frozen) along with the mushrooms for a classic combination.
South Indian StyleSouth Indian Style
In the initial tempering (tadka), add 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds and a sprig of curry leaves along with the cumin seeds for a different flavor profile.
With Bell PeppersWith Bell Peppers
Add 1/2 cup of thinly sliced bell peppers (capsicum) along with the onions to add color, crunch, and sweetness.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Supports Immune Function
Mushrooms are a source of the antioxidant selenium, which helps support the immune system and prevent cellular damage. The spices used, like turmeric and ginger, also have anti-inflammatory properties.
Aids in Weight Management
Being low in calories and fat but high in fiber and water content, mushrooms can promote a feeling of fullness (satiety), making this dish an excellent addition to a weight-loss or weight-management diet.
Rich in B Vitamins
Mushrooms provide essential B vitamins like niacin, riboflavin, and pantothenic acid. These vitamins are crucial for converting food into energy, maintaining a healthy nervous system, and supporting skin health.
Good for Gut Health
Mushrooms contain prebiotics, which are fibers that nourish beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy gut microbiome is linked to improved digestion, immunity, and overall health.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this Sauteed Mushroom dish contains approximately 90-110 calories, making it a light and healthy side dish. The exact count can vary based on the amount of oil used.