Bhuna Recipe β 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.
π Recipe Details
π Prep Time: 30-35 minutes
π₯ Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
β³ Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
π½ Servings: 4-5
π 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
π©βπ³ Step-by-Step Instructions
1οΈβ£ Prepare the Bhuna Masala Base
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Stir in chopped onions and sautΓ© until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- 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.)
2οΈβ£ Bhuna for Vegetables
- Add your choice of vegetables to the masala and stir well.
- Let the vegetables cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
- Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, garam masala, and salt.
- Mix everything well, cover the pan, and let it cook until the vegetables are tender.
3οΈβ£ Bhuna for Chicken or Meat
- Add chicken or meat to the masala and stir well.
- Cook until the meat is browned and well-coated in the spices.
- Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, garam masala, and salt.
- Cover the pan and let it cook until the meat is tender and the masala has thickened.
4οΈβ£ Final Touch & Serving
- Check seasoning and adjust if needed.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with naan, chapatti, or rice.

π‘ Tips for a Perfect Bhuna Dish
β For extra richness: Cook the onions on low heat for a longer time.
β For a spicier dish: Add chopped green chillies or extra chilli powder.
β For a smoky flavour: Add a splash of smoked paprika or charcoal smoke infusion.
β For meal prep: Store the cooked Bhuna dish in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does βBhunaβ mean?
β
βBhunaβ refers to the process of slow-cooking spices in oil to develop deep, rich flavours.
Q: Can I make Bhuna without tomatoes?
β
Yes! Substitute with yogurt or blended roasted peppers for a different texture and taste.
Q: Can I use ready-made Bhuna paste?
β
Absolutely! You can buy Bhuna paste online or from local stores for convenience.
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