Vegan Mushroom Masala Recipe (Creamy, Dairy-Free & Restaurant-Style)
Vegan Mushroom Masala Recipe (Creamy, Dairy-Free & Restaurant-Style)
Looking for a rich, creamy, and flavorful Vegan Mushroom Masala recipe that tastes just like your favorite Indian restaurant dish? This dairy-free version is made with coconut milk or cashew cream, aromatic spices, and tender mushrooms simmered in a luscious tomato-based gravy.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, festive meals, or meal prep, this plant-based Indian curry is easy, gluten-free, and packed with bold flavors.
🥘 What is Mushroom Masala?
Mushroom Masala is a popular North Indian curry made with mushrooms cooked in a spiced onion-tomato gravy. Traditionally, it may include cream or butter, but this vegan mushroom masala uses plant-based alternatives without compromising on richness.
It pairs beautifully with:
- Roti
- Naan
- Jeera Rice
- Steamed Basmati Rice
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Vegan Mushroom Masala
- ✔ 100% Dairy-Free & Vegan
- ✔ Ready in 30–35 minutes
- ✔ Rich, creamy & flavorful
- ✔ Perfect for meal prep
- ✔ Naturally gluten-free
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
Main Ingredients:
- 250g button mushrooms (sliced)
- 2 medium onions (finely chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- ½ cup coconut milk or cashew cream
- 2 tbsp oil
- Salt to taste
Whole Spices:
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ tsp cumin seeds
Ground Spices:
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- ½ tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp cumin powder
Garnish:
- Fresh coriander leaves
- ½ tsp kasuri methi (optional but recommended)
👩🍳 How to Make Vegan Mushroom Masala (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Sauté the Base
Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and bay leaf. Let them splutter. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
Step 3: Cook the Tomato Masala
Add tomato puree, turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook until oil separates from the mixture.
Step 4: Add Mushrooms
Add sliced mushrooms and mix well. Cook for 5–7 minutes until mushrooms release water and soften.
Step 5: Make it Creamy
Add coconut milk or cashew cream. Simmer for 5 minutes on low heat.
Step 6: Final Touch
Add garam masala and crushed kasuri methi. Mix well. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Your creamy vegan mushroom masala is ready to serve!
🔥 Pro Tips for Restaurant-Style Flavor
- Sauté onions properly for a rich base.
- Cook tomato masala until oil separates.
- Use fresh mushrooms for best texture.
- Add a small pinch of sugar to balance acidity.
- For extra richness, blend the gravy before adding mushrooms.
🥗 Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with:
- Vegan Butter Naan
- Tandoori Roti
- Jeera Rice
- Plain Basmati Rice
You can also pair it with vegan cucumber raita and onion salad.
🥦 Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Store in airtight container in fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently; add a splash of water if thick.
- Freezer-friendly for up to 1 month.
- Flavor deepens the next day!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Mushroom Masala vegan?
Traditional versions may include cream or butter. This recipe is completely dairy-free and vegan.
2. Can I use different mushrooms?
Yes! Button, cremini, portobello, or mixed mushrooms work great.
3. Can I make it without coconut milk?
Yes, use cashew cream or almond cream as a substitute.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the curry itself is gluten-free. Pair with gluten-free roti or rice.
5. How can I make it spicy?
Add extra red chili powder or green chilies while cooking.
🥘 Nutritional Benefits
- Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and B vitamins.
- Coconut milk provides healthy fats.
- Spices like turmeric and cumin have anti-inflammatory properties.
💚 Why Vegan Mushroom Masala is Perfect for Plant-Based Diets
If you’re following a plant-based lifestyle, this curry gives you:
- Rich Indian flavors without dairy
- Comfort food satisfaction
- High fiber & nutrient-dense ingredients
- Easy weeknight meal solution
🚀 Final Thoughts
This Vegan Mushroom Masala Recipe delivers bold Indian flavors with a creamy, satisfying texture — without any dairy. Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or just exploring plant-based meals, this curry will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
👉 Try this recipe today and transform simple mushrooms into a restaurant-style vegan delight!

