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Mushroom Bhaji

Mushroom bhaji is a savory stir-fry that highlights the earthy, umami richness of mushrooms, cooked with simple spices and aromatics. The dish evolves from firm, fresh mushrooms to tender, browned morsels soaked in fragrant spices, finished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon. Its rustic appearance and deep flavor make it a comforting side or vegetarian main.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 300 g button mushrooms sliced evenly
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic crushed
  • 1 inch ginger grated
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 0.5 tsp chili powder adjust to taste
  • 2 tbsp oil vegetable or canola
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped, added at the end
  • 1 whole lemon for juice

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Lid
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Measuring spoons and cup

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the oil, allowing it to warm until shimmering and fragrant.
  2. Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until it turns golden and releases a sweet aroma.
  3. Toss in the crushed garlic and grated ginger, stirring quickly for about 30 seconds until fragrant and slightly sizzling.
  4. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan, stirring to coat them evenly with the onion and spice mixture. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring often, until they release moisture, brown around the edges, and smell nutty and earthy.
  5. Sprinkle in the turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powders, stirring well to evenly coat the mushrooms. Cook for about 1 minute until the spices release their aroma.
  6. Pour in a tablespoon or two of water or broth, then cover the pan with a lid and simmer for 5 minutes. Check that the mushrooms are tender and the sauce is slightly thickened.
  7. Remove the lid, increase the heat slightly if needed, and cook for another 2 minutes to evaporate excess moisture and deepen the browning.
  8. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mushroom bhaji and stir in the chopped cilantro, allowing the flavors to meld for a minute.
  9. Give everything a final stir, then turn off the heat. Serve the mushroom bhaji hot, garnished with extra cilantro if desired, alongside rice or flatbread.

Notes

Adjust spice levels to your preference. For a richer flavor, add a splash of ghee at the end. This dish can be prepared a day ahead; reheat gently before serving.