There’s something undeniably special about dhaba-style food in India. The rustic charm, bold spices, and hearty flavors leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. One dish that has slowly found its way into the hearts of vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike is the Mushroom Butter Masala Dhaba Style. This rich, creamy, and irresistibly delicious curry is a fantastic vegetarian alternative to the classic butter chicken.
Unlike its restaurant-style counterparts, Mushroom Butter Masala Dhaba Style is known for its earthy, bold, and slightly smoky flavors that can only be found in roadside dhabas across the country. This dish combines the tender meatiness of mushrooms with a buttery, tomato-based gravy that’s packed with spices and love.
In this post, we’ll dive into what makes this dish so special, the ingredients that give it its character, and a foolproof way to recreate it in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner looking to impress, this guide will help you master the art of Mushroom Butter Masala Dhaba Style.
What Makes Mushroom Butter Masala Dhaba Style So Special?
The magic of Mushroom Butter Masala Dhaba Style lies in its simplicity and boldness. Unlike polished restaurant dishes, dhaba-style cooking focuses on robust, rustic flavors that are deeply satisfying. Here’s what sets this dish apart:
1. Fresh and Local Ingredients
Dhabas typically use locally-sourced mushrooms, fresh tomatoes, and hand-pounded spices. This freshness enhances the overall taste and aroma of the dish.
2. Smoky Flavor Profile
One of the key differences between home-style cooking and dhaba-style cooking is the use of high-heat cooking techniques. The slight char on mushrooms and the use of smoky spices give the dish a unique depth.
3. Generous Use of Butter and Cream
As the name suggests, butter is not held back. This results in a rich, creamy gravy that clings beautifully to the mushrooms, making every bite indulgent.
4. Balanced Spices
Mushroom Butter Masala Dhaba Style isn’t just spicy—it’s flavorful. The masala used hits all the right notes: spicy, sweet, tangy, and savory, offering a balanced flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients That Bring the Magic
To recreate the true Mushroom Butter Masala Dhaba Style at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
250g fresh button mushrooms, cleaned and halved
3 tablespoons butter (unsalted is best)
1 tablespoon oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3-4 tomatoes, pureed
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
¼ cup fresh cream
1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
Spices:
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
Salt to taste
½ teaspoon sugar (optional but recommended)
Optional for Smoky Flavor:
A small piece of coal (for dhungar method)
Ghee for smoke infusion
These ingredients work together to deliver the rich, layered flavor that defines Mushroom Butter Masala Dhaba Style.
Step-by-Step: How to Cook Mushroom Butter Masala Dhaba Style
Now let’s walk through the process of making this beloved dish in true dhaba fashion.
Step 1: Prep the Mushrooms
Clean mushrooms with a damp cloth or quickly rinse and pat dry. Cut them in half if they’re large.
Heat 1 tablespoon oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a pan. Sauté mushrooms on high heat until they are golden brown. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Base
In the same pan, add remaining butter.
Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
Add finely chopped onions and cook until golden brown.
Add ginger-garlic paste and green chili, sauté until the raw smell goes away.
Step 3: Build the Masala
Add pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil starts to separate.
Add turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder, and salt.
Mix well and let the masala cook on low flame for about 10 minutes. This step is key to developing the deep flavors of Mushroom Butter Masala Dhaba Style.
Step 4: Add Mushrooms and Cream
Add sautéed mushrooms back into the masala.
Mix gently to coat the mushrooms with the gravy.
Add cream and sugar (if using). Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes
Step 5: Final Touch
Crush kasuri methi between your palms and add it to the curry.
Sprinkle garam masala on top and mix.
Step 6: Optional Dhungar (Smoky) Flavor
Heat a piece of coal until red hot.
Place a small bowl in the center of your curry, put the coal inside, and add a few drops of ghee.
Cover the pan with a lid for 2-3 minutes to infuse a smoky flavor.
Your Mushroom Butter Masala Dhaba Style is now ready to serve! Pair it with naan, paratha, or steamed basmati rice.
Tips for a Perfect Mushroom Butter Masala Every Time
Use Fresh Mushrooms: Avoid canned mushrooms as they lack the texture and flavor needed for authentic Mushroom Butter Masala Dhaba Style.
Don’t Skip the Sauté: Cooking the mushrooms on high heat beforehand enhances their flavor and prevents them from becoming soggy.
Let the Masala Cook: One of the secrets to dhaba-style cooking is patience. Letting the tomato-onion masala cook until the oil separates intensifies the flavor.
Balance is Key: The butter, cream, and spices should be in harmony. Don’t let one overpower the other.
Smoky Touch (Optional but Amazing): The dhungar method gives the dish that extra dhaba flair. Try it once—you’ll be hooked.
Conclusion
Mushroom Butter Masala Dhaba Style is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. It brings together the heartiness of mushrooms and the rich, indulgent flavors of butter masala in a way that’s comforting, nostalgic, and completely satisfying. With the steps and tips shared above, you can easily recreate this roadside classic at home.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself to a cozy meal, Mushroom Butter Masala Dhaba Style is a dish that never disappoints. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend indulgence, or festive occasions when you want something delicious and memorable.
Try it once, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again—because the magic of dhaba-style food is simply irresistible.