Spiced Aubergine and Mushroom Delight
This Spiced Aubergine and Mushroom Delight is a vibrant and hearty vegetarian curry, perfect for those who crave rich flavors and comforting textures. The creamy aubergines combined with the earthy button mushrooms create a satisfying dish that brings warmth to your table. Infused with a blend of aromatic spices, including cumin, coriander, and turmeric, this curry is not only incredibly easy to make but also budget-friendly. Ideal as a side dish to accompany chicken curry or delightful on its own with rice or naan, this recipe promises to impress both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Plus, the convenience of using a microwave means you can have this nourishing meal ready in no time!
4
Servings
105
Calories
16
Ingredients
Ingredients
Aubergines
2 large (slashed on one side)
Oil
3 teaspoons (for frying)
Mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon
Onion
1 (sliced)
Button mushrooms
4 ounces (halved)
Garlic cloves
2 (chopped)
Red chili
1 (finely chopped)
Chili powder
1/2 teaspoon
Ground cumin
1 teaspoon
Ground coriander
1 teaspoon
Turmeric
1/4 teaspoon
Salt
1 teaspoon
Tomato
1 large (chopped)
Tomato paste
1 tablespoon
Water
5 fluid ounces
Fresh coriander leaves
1 tablespoon (chopped)
Instructions
1
Start by slashing each aubergine several times on one side to allow for even cooking.
2
Place the aubergines in the microwave and cook on high for 10 minutes until tender. Once cooked, carefully remove from the microwave and allow to cool slightly.
3
In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and fry until they begin to pop.
4
Add the sliced onions, chopped garlic, halved mushrooms, and finely chopped red chili to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
5
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, chopped tomatoes, and salt. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the spices to toast and release their flavors.
6
Mix in the tomato paste and water, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
7
Carefully open the cooled aubergines and scoop out the flesh using a spoon, discarding the skin. Chop the flesh into small pieces and add it to the pot.
8
Gently fold in the chopped fresh coriander leaves.
9
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Serve hot with rice or naan.
Nutrition Information
3.75g
Fat
15g
Carbs
2.5g
Protein
5g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiced Aubergine and Mushroom Delight?
It is a vibrant and hearty vegetarian curry that combines creamy aubergines with earthy button mushrooms in an aromatic spice blend.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and suitable for a vegan diet.
How many calories are in a single serving?
Each serving contains approximately 105 calories.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
What are the primary ingredients in this dish?
The main components are aubergines, button mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, and a variety of spices like cumin and turmeric.
How should I prepare the aubergines before cooking?
You should slash each aubergine several times on one side to ensure even cooking.
How long do the aubergines need to be microwaved?
Cook the aubergines on high in the microwave for 10 minutes until they are tender.
Why is it necessary to slash the aubergines?
Slashing the aubergines allows steam to escape and helps them cook evenly in the microwave.
What type of mushrooms are best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for button mushrooms, halved.
What spices are used to flavor this curry?
The spice blend includes mustard seeds, chili powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, and turmeric.
How do I prepare the mustard seeds?
Heat oil in a pot and fry the mustard seeds until they begin to pop before adding other ingredients.
How long should I sauté the onions and garlic?
Sauté the sliced onions, garlic, mushrooms, and red chili for about 5 minutes until the onions are soft.
When do I add the chopped tomatoes?
Add the tomatoes along with the ground spices and cook for 3 minutes to release the flavors.
How do I handle the aubergines after they are microwaved?
Allow them to cool slightly, then scoop out the flesh with a spoon and discard the skin.
What is the role of tomato paste in this recipe?
Tomato paste is mixed with water to help create a thick and flavorful base for the curry.
Can I serve this dish with meat?
Yes, it makes an excellent side dish for chicken curry, though it is also satisfying on its own.
What are the best side dishes for this curry?
This dish pairs perfectly with rice or fresh naan bread.
How much fat is in one serving?
One serving contains 3.75 grams of fat.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
There are 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this a high-fiber meal?
Yes, it provides 5 grams of fiber per serving, which is beneficial for digestion.
How much protein does this dish contain?
Each serving provides 2.5 grams of protein.
Is this recipe considered budget-friendly?
Yes, it uses simple, affordable vegetables and pantry staple spices.
How much water is needed for the sauce?
The recipe requires 5 fluid ounces of water.
When should the fresh coriander be added?
Gently fold in the chopped fresh coriander leaves just before the final simmering stage.
How long should the curry simmer?
Once all ingredients are combined, simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Is the red chili very hot?
The recipe uses one red chili and a half teaspoon of chili powder, providing a moderate spice level that can be adjusted to taste.
Can I make this dish without a microwave?
Yes, you can roast the aubergines in an oven until tender as an alternative to microwaving.
What is the texture of the finished aubergines?
The aubergine flesh becomes creamy and soft, blending into the spiced sauce.
Is there any cholesterol in this recipe?
The recipe does not list any cholesterol, and since it is plant-based, it is naturally cholesterol-free.
How much salt is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt to season the 4 servings.