Vegan Mushroom Masala

1 . Stage

Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add cinnamon, cumin seeds, green cardamom, cloves, star anise, and bay leaf. Stir to allow oil to absorb flavors and aroma, about 30 seconds.

2 . Stage

Stir in onion and saute until it becomes slightly caramelized, about 10 minutes. Stir in ginger-garlic paste until smell diminishes, about 1 minute. Add tomatoes and stir for 3 to 4 minutes. Add coriander powder, turmeric, and chili powder. Allow sauce to reduce, 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in salt. Add mushrooms and stir until coated with sauce.

3 . Stage

Pour in water and allow mushrooms to cook in sauce until slightly soft, 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in cashew powder and garam masala and let cook, stirring, for about 2 minutes. Break kasoori methi into fine pieces and stir into meal; remove from heat, and serve.