Name: Mushroom Bhaji (Indian Mushroom Curry) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 400 grams Mushrooms (closed cup, baby button or chestnut), quartered; 1 Onion, finely chopped; 2 Garlic Cloves, finely chopped; 1 Red Chilli, finely chopped (adjust to taste); 1 Handful Fresh Coriander (Cilantro), stems chopped separately from leaves for garnish; 1 tbsp Curry Powder (or garam masala); 2 tsp English Mustard; 1 tsp White Vinegar; 1 tbsp Tomato Puree; Salt and Black Pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp Olive Oil

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 1 review

If you love the comforting flavors of Indian cuisine but want a lovely vegetarian option, this Mushroom Bhaji (Indian Mushroom Curry) Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines earthy mushrooms with fragrant spices and fresh herbs to create a luscious, hearty curry that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, this dish brings warmth and vibrant flavor to your table in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a black frying pan with a layer of small, chopped light yellow onions evenly spread at the bottom. On top of the onions, there is a large pile of whole and sliced pale beige mushrooms, with some mushrooms visibly falling from a shiny silver bowl held above the pan. The background and surface are a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this Mushroom Bhaji (Indian Mushroom Curry) Recipe are simple, yet each plays a crucial part in building its layered flavors and satisfying texture. From the silky mushrooms to the punchy curry powder and fresh coriander, every component shines in harmony.

Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Provides a smooth base to sauté the vegetables and helps release the spices’ aromas.

Onion (1, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth when softened properly.
Mushrooms (400 grams, quartered): Use closed cup, baby button, or chestnut mushrooms for the best texture and earthy taste.
Garlic Cloves (2, finely chopped): Brings a subtle pungency that lifts the overall flavor.

Red Chilli (1, finely chopped): Offers a gentle heat that you can adjust according to your spice preference.
Fresh Coriander (1 handful): Use stalks for cooking to infuse the curry, and reserve leaves for a bright, fresh garnish.
Curry Powder (1 tbsp): Or garam masala, this spice blend is key to creating that authentic Indian curry magic.

English Mustard (2 tsp): Adds a subtle sharpness that complements the richness of the mushrooms.
White Vinegar (1 tsp): Balances the flavors with light acidity.
Tomato Puree (1 tbsp): Gives the curry a vibrant color and a hint of tangy sweetness.

Salt and Black Pepper: Season to taste for a perfectly balanced dish.

How to Make Mushroom Bhaji (Indian Mushroom Curry) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by quartering your mushrooms to ensure they cook evenly while still retaining a bit of bite. Finely chop the onion, garlic, and red chilli to release their flavors as they cook. Don’t forget to separate fresh coriander stalks from the leaves now — the stalks will add subtle herbaceous notes during cooking, while the leaves will be for garnish later.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a frying pan over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onions and let them soften slowly, drawing out their natural sweetness. This step lays an irresistible flavor foundation for the curry.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms

Next, toss in the quartered mushrooms and continue to cook, stirring occasionally. This should take about 15 minutes until both the onions and mushrooms are tender and full of flavor. Mushrooms not only add texture but also soak up all the spices beautifully.

Step 4: Add Garlic, Chilli, and Coriander Stalks

Introduce the finely chopped garlic, red chilli, and coriander stalks into the pan. Stir-fry this mixture for 2 minutes to let the garlic mellow and the chilli infuse a gentle heat, while the coriander stalks add their unique fragrance.

Step 5: Bring in the Spices

Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of curry powder and stir it through the mix. This moment transforms the pan into a kitchen filled with inviting Indian aromas, as the spices toast slightly in the oil.

Step 6: Build the Sauce

Add 2 teaspoons of English mustard and 1 teaspoon of white vinegar next, stirring well. Then spoon in 1 tablespoon of tomato puree to give the curry a rich color and tangy depth. Season with salt and black pepper, adjusting to your taste at this stage.

Step 7: Simmer to Perfection

Allow the curry to simmer gently uncovered for about 10 minutes. This thickens the sauce beautifully and melds all the flavors together into a harmonious, comforting dish. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

How to Serve Mushroom Bhaji (Indian Mushroom Curry) Recipe

A white bowl filled with brownish-orange cooked cauliflower pieces garnished with small green herb leaves, placed on a beige cloth over a white marbled surface. Surrounding this bowl, from the top left to right, are three white bowls: the first contains a white sauce with green herb bits, the second has red cooked peppers mixed with some greens, and the third holds a red sauce with a textured surface topped with small green herbs. The background is a white marbled texture, and the image shows a close, top-down view. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves over the top just before serving. This simple garnish adds a fresh, citrusy brightness that perfectly complements the rich, spiced mushroom curry.

Side Dishes

This Mushroom Bhaji (Indian Mushroom Curry) Recipe shines when paired with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread, which help soak up every bit of the delicious sauce. A side of cooling raita or a crisp cucumber salad can also balance the spices wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this bhaji inside warm, toasted pita pockets topped with a dollop of yogurt and some pickled onions. You could also plate it alongside roasted vegetables or mixed greens for a vibrant, wholesome meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This mushroom curry keeps remarkably well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen after a day, making it ideal for meal prepping.

Freezing

If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze the Mushroom Bhaji (Indian Mushroom Curry) Recipe in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Make sure it cools completely before freezing to preserve its texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of water or vegetable broth can help loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high heat to keep the mushrooms tender.

FAQs

Can I use different types of mushrooms for this recipe?

Absolutely! While closed cup, baby button, or chestnut mushrooms are recommended, you can experiment with shiitake or cremini mushrooms for a different texture and flavor. Just be mindful of cooking times as some varieties are more delicate.

Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Yes, this Mushroom Bhaji (Indian Mushroom Curry) Recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no dairy or animal products. Just be sure to use a plant-based oil like olive oil as specified.

How spicy is the curry?

The heat level depends on the type and amount of red chilli you use. If you prefer milder flavors, opt for a small, mild red chilli or reduce the quantity. You can always add fresh chilli later on your plate for more heat.

Can I make this curry gluten-free?

Definitely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure your curry powder or garam masala does not contain any hidden gluten additives.

What can I substitute for English mustard?

If you don’t have English mustard on hand, you can use Dijon mustard or a mild yellow mustard. The flavor might vary slightly, but it will still add that lovely tang and depth to the curry.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Mushroom Bhaji (Indian Mushroom Curry) Recipe that makes it a standout dish in any home kitchen. It’s cozy, packed with vibrant spices, and wonderfully versatile. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try, and I promise it will soon become one of your favorite ways to enjoy mushrooms with a delicious Indian twist.