Enjoy the delicious flavors of Rogan Josh, a traditional Indian lamb curry. Slow-cooked in a rich and creamy gravy, it's a perfect choice for lunch, dinner, or special occasions. Enjoy it with rice, roti, or naan for a memorable meal.
Begin by heating a pan over medium heat. Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom, bay leaves, cumin, and fennel seeds. Toast them until they release a fragrant aroma, but be cautious not to burn them; this is crucial for the curry's flavor.
Introduce the onion puree and sauté until it loses its raw scent. This will enhance the overall taste of the curry.
Incorporate ginger-garlic paste, continuing to stir until it becomes aromatic and blends well with the onions and spices.
If you prefer, add diced tomatoes and puree, giving it a good mix. Allow them to soften. Alternatively, for a traditional Kashmiri version, omit the tomatoes and onions.
Combine salt, paprika, turmeric, chili, garam masala, and coriander powder. Ensure even distribution of these spices for a balanced flavor profile.
Add the lamb or mutton pieces, ensuring they are thoroughly coated with the spice mixture for a rich and flavorful curry.
Pour water into the pan, stirring to create a harmonious blend of spices and meat.
Cover the pan with a lid and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the meat to tenderize.
Uncover the pan and give it a quick stir. Then, cover it again and continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes to ensures the meat is perfectly cooked and infused with the spices.
Remove the lid and gradually stir in yogurt. It's crucial to whisk the yogurt separately before adding it to the hot curry to prevent curdling.
To enhance the final flavors, add fennel powder and fresh coriander or cilantro leaves. Continue to simmer for 5 to 7 minutes or until the curry releases oil from its sides. Your mouthwatering lamb Rogan Josh is now ready to be savored.
To Serve
Serve this delectable Rogan Josh alongside fragrant basmati rice, naan bread, or paratha. For more pairing ideas, check out our serving suggestions section.
Notes
Here are some essential tips to make perfect Rogan Josh:
Preparation and Ingredients:
Using Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh spices and herbs. Freshly ground spices and herbs can make a significant difference in flavor.
Select Tender Meat: Opt for tender lamb or mutton cuts for your Rogan Josh. These pieces cook faster and more evenly than matured meat, ensuring a tender curry.
Temper Spices Carefully: Gently temper whole Indian spices to enrich the curry with exotic flavors. Be cautious not to burn them, as this can impart a bitter taste.
Marination Optional: While this recipe doesn't require marinating the lamb in masala or yogurt, you can choose to marinate overnight for deeper flavor, time permitting.
Balancing Spices: Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your heat preference. If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the chili quantity, while for a spicier kick, increase it slightly.
Adjusting Thickness: If the curry is too thick, add a little water or broth. If too thin, simmer it for a longer time to reduce and thicken.
Onion and Tomato Variation: This recipe includes onion and tomatoes. For a more authentic Kashmiri-style curry, you can omit these ingredients.
Cooking and Finishing Touches:
Garnishing: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for a fresh, zesty finish.
Cooking Time: The longer you cook the curry on a low flame, the better the flavors will meld together. If time allows, let it simmer gently to enhance the depth of flavor.
Cooking Method: Slow-cooking the curry in a pot enhances its rich flavor and taste. Alternatively, for quicker preparation, a pressure cooker or instant pot can be used.
Resting Time: After cooking, let the curry rest for a while before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to settle and intensify.
Storage and Reheating: Rogan Josh often tastes better the next day as the flavors develop more. Store it properly and reheat gently for leftovers.