Rogan Josh
Rogan Josh is a traditional Kashmiri lamb curry featuring tender pieces of lamb slow-cooked in a rich, aromatic gravy made with yogurt, Kashmiri chili powder, ginger, garlic, and fragrant spices. This delicious Indian curry is perfect for serving with basmati rice, naan, or roti and makes a wonderful addition to a festive Christmas dinner.
Ingredients
- 750 g lamb cut into medium-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
- 2 medium onions finely sliced
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 2 teaspoons Kashmiri chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon fennel powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 4 green cardamom pods
- 4 cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 bay leaves
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups water or lamb stock
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Lamb: Wash and pat dry the lamb pieces. Set aside.
- Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil or ghee in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
- Cook the Onions: Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown. Remove a small portion for garnish if desired.
- Add Whole Spices: Add cardamom, cloves, cinnamon stick, and bay leaves. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Ginger and Garlic: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Cook the Lamb: Add the lamb pieces and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring until lightly browned.
- Add Ground Spices: Mix in Kashmiri chili powder, coriander, cumin, fennel powder, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to coat the lamb.
- Add Yogurt: Lower the heat. Gradually add whisked yogurt, stirring continuously to create a smooth, rich curry base.
- Add Liquid: Pour in the water or lamb stock. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook over low heat for approximately 1½–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the lamb is tender and fully cooked. Add a little extra water if needed.
- Finish the Curry: Stir in garam masala and simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes until the gravy thickens.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti.
- Cooking Tip: For the best Rogan Josh, cook the lamb slowly over low heat and allow the spices to develop a rich, aromatic flavour.