In South Indian cuisine, there is a variety of versatile vegetables that blend into various delectable recipes, making them both comforting and delicious. Among them, mushrooms stand out. Mushrooms are packed with nutrients and have a rich, umami flavour that enhances many South Indian dishes.
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Whether it's a crispy fry, a flavourful biryani, or a simple stir-fry, mushrooms complement the region's bold use of spices, coconut, and tamarind. In South Indian cuisine, mushrooms are used in different forms, from crispy starters to wholesome curries. These dishes are easy to prepare and will surely elevate any family meal.
Mushroom Pepper Fry
Mushroom pepper fry, also known as kalan milagu varuval, is a quick stir-fry that brings out the best of mushrooms. The dish is spiced with crushed black pepper, curry leaves, onions, and a hint of turmeric. The mushrooms are sautéed until tender, soaking up all the spicy and aromatic flavours. This dish is perfect as a side for rice or even chapati.
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Mushroom 65
Mushroom 65 is a South Indian street food classic, crispy, spicy, and highly addictive. The mushrooms are marinated in a mixture of yoghurt, red chilli powder, coriander, and garam masala, then deep-fried until golden and crunchy. This dish is perfect for family dinners when you're in the mood for something crispy and tangy. Serve it with a side of mint chutney for extra flavour.
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Mushroom Uttapam
Uttapam is a soft, thick pancake made from fermented rice and urad dal batter. Adding mushrooms to uttapam makes for a wholesome and nutritious meal. The mushrooms are sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and green chillies, then spread over the uttapam batter on the pan. The result is a delicious, savoury pancake that can be enjoyed for breakfast or dinner, along with coconut chutney or sambar.
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Chettinad Mushroom
Chettinad cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavours, and this mushroom dish is no exception. Mushrooms are cooked in a spicy, tangy gravy made with roasted Chettinad spices, tomatoes, and tamarind. The flavours of fennel, cinnamon, and black pepper blend beautifully with the mushrooms, making it an ideal side dish for rice, idiyappam, or chapati.
Kalan Biryani
Kalan biryani is a fragrant rice dish where mushrooms take centre stage. Mushrooms are sautéed with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves, then mixed with basmati rice cooked in coconut milk. The earthy mushrooms and the rich, spiced rice create a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for large family gatherings. Serve this biryani with a side of raita or papad for a complete experience.
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Mushroom Kurma
Mushroom kurma is a rich, coconut-based curry where mushrooms are cooked with a blend of spices, including cardamom, fennel, and cumin. The addition of ground coconut and cashews makes the gravy thick and creamy. This mildly spiced dish is perfect for pairing with parotta, rice, or even dosa, making it a favourite for family dinners when you want something hearty.
Koon Thoran
A traditional Kerala dish, koon thoran, is a stir-fry made with mushrooms and grated coconut. The mushrooms are cooked with curry leaves, mustard seeds, and mild spices like turmeric and cumin. The coconut adds sweetness, balancing the mushrooms' earthy flavours. This simple yet flavourful dish is a great addition to any South Indian meal and goes well with rice or chapati.