At Saagar Restaurant in Phuket, we specialize in bringing comforting, aromatic, and vibrant dishes to the table—meals that feel like home for our Indian guests and an exciting discovery for travelers exploring Southeast Asia.
Among our vegetarian favorites, mushroom masala stands out as a true classic. It is creamy, flavorful, and beautifully seasoned, making it a beloved choice for anyone craving a hearty, spice-rich dish.
In this article, we explore the essence of this dish, a step-by-step mushroom masala recipe, and variations such as mushroom butter masala, mushroom matar masala, and more.
What Makes Mushroom Masala So Special?
This dish has become a popular favorite for many reasons:
- It is rich but not overly heavy.
- The spices blend naturally with the earthy flavor of mushrooms.
- It pairs well with rice, naan, roti, or paratha.
- It works beautifully for both vegetarian diners and anyone wanting a flavorful, comforting meal.
The creamy base combined with aromatic spices creates a dish that feels warm and satisfying—something we proudly serve at Saagar to guests visiting Phuket’s vibrant food scene.
Mushroom Masala Recipe (Restaurant Style)
This recipe follows the same method used in our kitchen—simple steps, fresh ingredients, and a perfect balance of spices.
Ingredients
- Fresh mushrooms, sliced
- Onions, finely chopped
- Tomatoes or tomato puree
- Ginger and garlic paste
- Green chilies
- Oil or butter
- Fresh cream (optional for extra richness)
- Spices: turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin, black pepper, garam masala
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating oil or butter in a pan. Add chopped onions and cook until they turn golden. This golden-brown color helps develop the depth needed in mushroom masala.
Add ginger and garlic paste and sauté until the raw aroma disappears.
2. Create the Flavorful Masala Base
Add tomatoes or tomato puree to the pan and cook until the mixture thickens. Sprinkle turmeric, red chili powder, cumin, coriander powder, and a pinch of black pepper.
This step builds the foundation of the mushroom masala recipe, giving it a rich, flavorful base.
3. Add Mushrooms and Cook Until Tender
Add sliced mushrooms and stir well so they soak up the masala. Mushrooms release water naturally, so cook them on medium heat until the liquid reduces and they become tender yet slightly firm.
This is what gives the dish its signature texture—soft mushrooms coated in a thick, aromatic gravy.
4. Add Cream and Finish With Spices
For a more indulgent version, add a splash of fresh cream. Stir in garam masala and let the dish simmer for a few minutes.
Finish with chopped coriander for freshness and color.
The resulting dish is creamy, spicy, and beautifully aromatic—exactly the kind of meal guests enjoy at Saagar.
Delicious Variations of Mushroom Masala
One reason this dish is so loved is its versatility. Here are some popular variations we often serve upon request:
1. Mushroom Butter Masala
A richer and creamier version, made with butter and cream. This version is silky and slightly sweeter, perfect for guests who enjoy a mild yet luxurious curry.
2. Mushroom Matar Masala / Mushroom Mutter Masala
A classic combination of mushrooms and green peas.
This variation adds a light sweetness and extra texture, making it an excellent pairing with roti or rice.
3. Spicy Masala Style
For diners who enjoy stronger heat, we prepare a spicier version using more chilies. It delivers an intense flavor while still maintaining the signature creaminess.
Each variation brings something unique to the table, and at Saagar in Phuket, we prepare it fresh based on our guests’ preferences.
Why Mushroom Masala Is Popular at Saagar
Visitors to Phuket often crave flavorful, comforting meals after exploring beaches, markets, and nightlife. A dish like this offers warmth, depth, and familiarity. It’s also a favorite among vegetarian travelers looking for meals that are filling yet aromatic.
The combination of creamy masala, tender mushrooms, and rich spices makes the dish versatile—delicious with rice for a light meal or with naan for a more indulgent one.
Because we prepare everything fresh, our guests often appreciate the balance of spices and the homemade feel that reminds them of traditional Indian cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is mushroom masala?
It is a flavorful curry made with mushrooms cooked in a spiced onion–tomato gravy. The dish is creamy, aromatic, and popular among vegetarians.
2. How to make mushroom masala?
Start by sautéing onions and aromatics, add tomatoes and spices, then mix in mushrooms and cook until tender. Finish with cream and garam masala for richness.
3. How to cook mushroom masala?
Use medium heat, cook mushrooms until they release water and absorb the masala, and simmer until the gravy thickens.
4. How to make mushroom matar masala?
Prepare the masala base and add mushrooms along with green peas. Cook until both are soft and well-coated in the gravy.
5. How to prepare mushroom masala?
The preparation involves creating a thick masala base, adding fresh mushrooms, simmering, and finishing with herbs and spices.