Spicy Kerala Style Mushroom Curry

2 tablespoon Oil
1 Bay leaves
4-5 Curry leaves
2 medium Onion, chopped
2-3 Green chile, slit lengthwise (optional)
1 tsp Ginger and Garlic crushed
1 medium Tomato chopped (or half can of pumpkin/butternut squash)
2 tsp Chili powder, or use paprika (optional)
1 tsp Coriander powder
1/4 tsp Turmeric powder
12-16 oz Mushroom, chopped
1/2 to 1 cup Canned Coconut milk
1/2 cup Warm water
1/2 tsp Garam Masala
1/2 tsp Crushed peppercorns
Salt to taste

Heat oil in a pan and add bay leaves and curry leaves. Add chopped onions and saute for 5-6 minutes. Add chopped green chiles, ginger and garlic and saute till they are soft and have a flavor. Add chopped tomato and stir fry for 3-4 minutes. Stir in the chopped mushroom pieces and combine it well. Saute for 3-4 minutes. Make a paste with all the powders, adding little water and pour to the pan. Toss it well and let it stand for a minute. Pour coconut milk plus water, sprinkle garam masala and crushed peppercorns and salt. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until mushrooms are cooked and well blended with masala.

From: Vazhayila.com [archive.org]