Ingredients

1 large garlic bulb

2 black cardamom pods

5 tbsp olive oil

400g exotic mushroom mix, larger mushrooms torn

1 small onion, roughly chopped

1 tsp cumin seeds

1 tsp finely grated or chopped ginger

1 green chilli, sliced (optional)

2 tbsp tomato purée

1 tsp turmeric

1 tsp ground coriander

1-2 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder

½ lemon, juiced

30g coriander, roughly chopped

Cooked rice or naan, to serve

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or gas mark 4. Slice the garlic bulb in half horizontally, place each half on a sheet of foil. Put 1 black cardamom pod on top of each garlic half, drizzle with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, wrap tightly, and bake for 35-40 minutes until the garlic is soft and caramelized. Alternatively, bake in an air fryer for 20-25 minutes.

Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and the chopped onion with a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat until soft and starting to brown. Add the cardamom pods used with the garlic and cumin seeds, stir well.

Step 4: Add the grated ginger and sliced green chilli if using. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from the bulb into the pan and lightly smash them with the back of a spoon.

Step 6: Stir in the tomato purée, turmeric, ground coriander, Kashmiri chilli powder, and salt to taste. Cook for a few minutes on medium heat, adding a splash of water if the mixture starts to stick.

Step 7: Finish by stirring in the lemon juice, chopped coriander, and the cooked mushrooms. Serve immediately with rice or naan.

Tips & Variations

Use a mix of mushrooms like shiitake, oyster, and chestnut for extra texture and flavor.

Adjust the green chilli and Kashmiri chilli powder to control the heat level according to your taste.

For a richer dish, add a splash of coconut milk just before serving.

To make it vegan, simply ensure your naan is free from dairy or serve with rice.

FAQs

Can I use regular garlic instead of roasting a whole garlic bulb?

Yes, but roasting the whole garlic bulb adds a sweet, caramelized flavor that enhances the dish. If using regular garlic, finely chop or crush 3-4 cloves and sauté with the onions for best results.

Is this dish spicy?

The dish has a mild to medium spice level, which can be adjusted by varying the amount of green chilli and Kashmiri chilli powder. You can omit the chilli altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.