Chhatu Besar, a vibrant and flavorful mushroom curry, is a beloved dish in many homes, celebrated for its unique blend of spicy mustard and earthy mushrooms. This recipe, passed down through generations, offers a delicious twist on traditional mushroom preparations. Forget bland mushroom dishes; Chhatu Besar explodes with a complex tapestry of tastes – the pungent bite of mustard oil, the subtle sweetness of onions, the earthiness of mushrooms, and a warming chili kick. It's a perfect accompaniment to rice or roti, guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds.
This recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients; it's a journey into the heart of authentic flavor. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the aromatic base to achieving the perfect balance of spice and texture. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure and create your own unforgettable Chhatu Besar? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Kitchen
Ingredients
- Chhat (mushroom)
- Turmeric
- Water
- Potatoes
- Onion
- Garlic
- Cumin seeds
- Mustard seeds (Surso)
- Tomatoes
- Oil
- Spices (Masala)
- Coriander leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Preparing the Mushrooms and Potatoes
- Cut one piece of Chhat (mushroom), add turmeric water, and Bhuja (likely a spice blend).
- Cook/boil the Chhat, adding plenty of water.
- Fry the potatoes (first without oil, then with oil).
Step 2. Making and Frying the Spice Paste
- Prepare a paste of chopped onion, garlic, cumin seeds, and mustard seeds.
- Heat oil in a pan, add the paste, and fry.
- Fry the tomatoes.
- Add the masala according to your preference and cook.
- If using less oil, fry the masala until cooked (5-10 minutes).
- Add natural masala, ensuring it's spicy but flavorful.
Step 3. Combining and Simmering the Curry
- Add the cooked potatoes to the masala.
- Add water to adjust the gravy consistency.
- Drain excess water and fry the potatoes in the masala.
- Add more water as needed to achieve desired gravy thickness.
Step 4. Finishing Touches
- Add coriander leaves.
Read more: Creamy Cashew Chicken Curry: A Simple Yet Sumptuous Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the quantity of masala according to your taste.
- Check the color and spiciness of the curry throughout the cooking process.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 30-40g
- Protein: 5-8g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of mushrooms besides button mushrooms?
Yes! Cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms would all work well. Just adjust cooking time as needed depending on the mushroom type.
2. What if I don't have mustard oil? Can I substitute?
While mustard oil gives the dish its characteristic flavor, you can substitute with vegetable oil or canola oil. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
3. How can I adjust the spice level?
Control the heat by adjusting the amount of green chilies used. Start with less and add more to your preference. You can also omit the chilies entirely for a milder version.
So there you have it – Mama's Chhatu Besar, a recipe brimming with warmth, flavor, and a touch of nostalgic magic. This spicy mushroom and mustard curry is sure to become a family favorite, bringing a taste of home to your table. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!