Sri Lankan Oyster Mushroom Curry

Step 1

Wash the mushrooms, and pat them dry with paper towels or a clean cloth napkin.

Step 2

Tear the oyster mushrooms into smaller pieces with your hands. If you’re using cremini mushrooms, slice them instead.

Step 3

Slice the garlic if the cloves are large. Or you can keep them whole if the cloves are small.

Step 4

Slice the green chili lengthwise. If you want less heat, carefully remove the seeds and the white pith in the chili.

Step 5

In a medium pot or medium saute pan, heat the oil over medium heat.

Step 6

When the oil is hot, add the onion and saute until they start to soften. Add the green chili, garlic, ginger, red chili, and curry leaves, and saute until the onions are translucent (a couple more minutes, depending on your stove). Do NOT let the onion, garlic, or ginger burn.

Step 7

Add the curry powder, fennel seeds, cardamom, cayenne pepper, and turmeric, and saute for about 30 seconds, or until you can smell the spices. Add a generous pinch of salt as well.

Step 8

Add the mushrooms and saute for 10 - 15 minutes. The mushrooms should be coated well with the spices, and get just a little bit of color from caramelization.

Step 9

When the mushrooms have lightly caramelized, add the coconut milk, and about ¼ cup of the water. Add another pinch of salt (it's important to season as you go).

Step 10

Mix the curry, and increase the heat to bring the coconut milk and water to a boil. Then lower the heat and let it simmer for at least a few more minutes.

Step 11

If you'd like a creamy curry, then you can serve this after just a few minutes of simmering.

Step 12

However, I personally prefer to let the curry simmer for about 10 - 15 minutes, which will split the coconut milk and concentrate the flavor further. Add another ¼ cup of water if you'd like more curry sauce/gravy at the end.

Step 13

Taste, and adjust the salt level to your taste.

Step 14

Serve while warm.