Spiced Mushroom Bhaji

Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or gas mark 4. Cut the garlic bulb in half horizontally and place each half on a piece of foil. Top them with a cardamom pod and drizzle with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Wrap the foil tightly around the garlic and roast in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or use an air fryer for 20-25 minutes, until the garlic is soft, sweet, and lightly caramelized.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms
In a large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the exotic mushrooms and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they’re golden brown. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil along with a pinch of salt. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until it softens and begins to brown. Add the cardamom pods from the roasted garlic and the cumin seeds, stirring well. Then, mix in the grated ginger and sliced green chili, if desired, and cook for another 30 seconds to release their flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate the Garlic
Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins into the pan. Gently mash them with the back of a spoon to integrate their sweetness into the mixture.

Step 5: Build the Sauce
Add the tomato purée along with your ground spices and season with salt to taste. Cook this mixture over medium heat for a few minutes, adding a splash of water if it starts to stick to the pan.

Step 6: Combine and Serve
Stir in the lemon juice, chopped coriander, and the sautéed mushrooms. Mix everything together and serve immediately, pairing it with warm rice or naan for a complete and satisfying meal!