Comforting Lamb Rogan Josh
Lamb Rogan Josh is a classic Kashmiri dish that has won hearts worldwide with its rich, aromatic flavors and tender pieces of lamb. This dish is a staple in Indian cuisine, known for its deep red color and complex spice blend. The name “Rogan Josh” translates to “red lamb,” referring to the vibrant hue of the dish, which comes from the use of Kashmiri red chilies and other spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this Lamb Rogan Josh recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, flavorful curries.
Why This Lamb Rogan Josh Recipe Works
This Lamb Rogan Josh recipe is a winner because it’s packed with authentic flavors and uses simple, accessible ingredients. The combination of aromatic spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, along with the rich tomato-based sauce, creates a complex and satisfying curry. The slow cooking process ensures the lamb becomes tender and absorbs all the delicious flavors of the sauce.
Plus, this recipe is customizable! You can adjust the spice level to suit your preference, making it as mild or as hot as you like.
What’s In Lamb Rogan Josh?
The magic of Lamb Rogan Josh lies in its spice blend and the slow-cooked lamb. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Lamb: Use bone-in lamb pieces for the best results. These cuts become tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
- Spices: A blend of ground cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and Kashmiri red chili powder creates the signature Rogan Josh flavor.
- Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes form the base of the sauce, adding acidity and richness.
- Yogurt: Adds creaminess and balances the heat of the spices.
- Aromatics: Onions, garlic, and ginger form the flavor foundation of the curry.
- Fresh Herbs: Cilantro (coriander leaves) for garnish and a fresh finish.
How To Make Lamb Rogan Josh
This Lamb Rogan Josh recipe is straightforward and requires a bit of patience for the lamb to become tender and the flavors to develop. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Marinate the Lamb
- In a large bowl, combine the lamb pieces with yogurt, garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, coriander, Kashmiri red chili powder, and salt.
- Mix well to coat the lamb evenly. Cover and let it marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Brown the Lamb
- Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated lamb in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the onions until softened and golden.
- Add garlic, ginger, and the remaining spices (cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and Kashmiri red chili powder). Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Add the browned lamb back to the pot and stir to coat it in the sauce.
- Pour in the yogurt and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Slow Cook
- Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the curry simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the lamb is tender and the sauce is thick and flavorful.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Stir in fresh cilantro and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
- Serve hot with steamed basmati rice, naan bread, or roti.
Sides for Lamb Rogan Josh
Pair your Lamb Rogan Josh with these delicious sides:
- Steamed Basmati Rice: The perfect base to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Garlic Naan: Soft and fluffy, ideal for scooping up every last bit of curry.
- Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side to balance the heat.
- Pickled Onions: Adds a tangy crunch to complement the rich curry.
Recipe FAQ’s
How Spicy Is Lamb Rogan Josh?
Lamb Rogan Josh is traditionally a spicy curry, but you can adjust the heat level by reducing or increasing the amount of Kashmiri red chili powder.
Can I Use a Slow Cooker?
Yes! After browning the lamb and cooking the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
How Long Does Lamb Rogan Josh Last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day!
Other Recipes To Try
- Chicken Tikka Masala: A creamy and flavorful Indian curry made with marinated chicken and a rich tomato-based sauce.
- Vegetable Korma: A mild and creamy curry made with mixed vegetables and a blend of aromatic spices.
- Butter Chicken: A rich and indulgent curry made with tender chicken pieces in a creamy tomato sauce.
- Palak Paneer: A healthy and delicious curry made with spinach and paneer (Indian cottage cheese).
Lamb Rogan Josh
Ingredients
For the Lamb Marinade:
- 2 lbs 900g bone-in lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tbsp ginger minced
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
For the Curry:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tbsp ginger minced
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder
- 1 can 14 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Lamb: In a bowl, combine lamb with yogurt, garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, coriander, Kashmiri red chili powder, and salt. Mix well, cover, and marinate for 1 hour (or overnight).
- Brown the Lamb: Heat oil in a large pot. Sear the lamb in batches until browned. Set aside.
- Cook Aromatics: In the same pot, sauté onions until golden. Add garlic, ginger, and spices. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes. Add lamb and yogurt. Bring to a simmer.
- Slow Cook: Cover and simmer on low for 1.5-2 hours, until lamb is tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Stir in cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust the Kashmiri red chili powder to suit your taste.
- Make Ahead: The curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
- Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
Enjoy your homemade Lamb Rogan Josh! Let us know how it turned out in the comments below!
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