Bhuna Recipe – A Rich & Flavourful Indian Dish

A deeply spiced and aromatic dish, Bhuna involves slow-cooking spices in oil to create a thick, flavour-packed sauce. This recipe can be made with vegetables, chicken, or meat, making it a versatile classic in Indian cuisine.


πŸ“Œ Recipe Details

πŸ•’ Prep Time: 30-35 minutes
πŸ”₯ Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
🍽 Servings: 4-5


πŸ›’ Ingredients

For the Bhuna Masala Base:

  • 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or ghee)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp red chilli powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

For the Bhuna Dish:

  • 2 cups vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, cauliflower, peas) OR 500g chicken or meat

πŸ‘©β€πŸ³ Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Bhuna Masala Base

  1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
  3. Stir in chopped onions and sautΓ© until golden brown.
  4. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until the raw aroma disappears.
  5. Stir in chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and the oil starts to separate from the masala.

(Tip: You can buy ready made Bhuna paste from amazon by clicking this link. You will also be able to get Bhuna paste from your local cash and carry.)

2️⃣ Bhuna for Vegetables

  1. Add your choice of vegetables to the masala and stir well.
  2. Let the vegetables cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
  3. Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, garam masala, and salt.
  4. Mix everything well, cover the pan, and let it cook until the vegetables are tender.

3️⃣ Bhuna for Chicken or Meat

  1. Add chicken or meat to the masala and stir well.
  2. Cook until the meat is browned and well-coated in the spices.
  3. Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, garam masala, and salt.
  4. Cover the pan and let it cook until the meat is tender and the masala has thickened.

4️⃣ Final Touch & Serving

  1. Check seasoning and adjust if needed.
  2. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
  3. Serve hot with naan, chapatti, or rice.
Bhuna Recipe – A Rich & Flavourful Indian Dish
Bhuna

πŸ’‘ Tips for a Perfect Bhuna Dish

βœ” For extra richness: Cook the onions on low heat for a longer time.
βœ” For a spicier dish: Add chopped green chillies or extra chilli powder.
βœ” For a smoky flavour: Add a splash of smoked paprika or charcoal smoke infusion.
βœ” For meal prep: Store the cooked Bhuna dish in an airtight container for up to 3 days.


❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does β€˜Bhuna’ mean?
βœ… β€˜Bhuna’ refers to the process of slow-cooking spices in oil to develop deep, rich flavours.

Q: Can I make Bhuna without tomatoes?
βœ… Yes! Substitute with yogurt or blended roasted peppers for a different texture and taste.

Q: Can I use ready-made Bhuna paste?
βœ… Absolutely! You can buy Bhuna paste online or from local stores for convenience.


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