Lamb Rogan Josh Recipe: A Delicious Indian Dish for the Whole Family

Lamb Rogan Josh is a popular dish from Indian cuisine that's both delicious and easy to make. This classic recipe features tender pieces of lamb cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce spiced with a blend of aromatic ingredients like cumin, coriander and garam masala. The result is an exotic and flavourful dish.

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 2 lbs boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 2 teaspoons ginger paste
• 2 teaspoons garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Curry:

• 3 tablespoons ghee or oil
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 green cardamom pods
• 1 black cardamom pod
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons ginger paste
• 2 large tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons Kashmiri chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon fennel powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1.5 teaspoons salt, or to taste
• 1 cup water
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions: 

1. Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add lamb, coat well, and refrigerate for 2-4 hours or overnight.
2. Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add whole spices (bay leaves, cardamom, cinnamon) and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add onions and cook until deep golden brown, about 12-15 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add garlic and ginger paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add marinated lamb with its marinade. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until meat is browned on all sides.
6. Add tomatoes and cook until they break down and oil starts to separate, about 8-10 minutes.
7. Add all ground spices except garam masala. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
8. Add water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until lamb is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
9. Remove lid, increase heat to medium, and cook for 5-10 minutes until sauce thickens to desired consistency.
10. Stir in garam masala. Adjust seasoning to taste.
11. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Tips:

• Use lamb shoulder or leg for best results
• Don't rush the onion browning stage
• Adjust water quantity based on desired gravy thickness
• For authentic colour, use Kashmiri chilli powder

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with naan bread or steamed rice
• Accompany with raita and onion salad
• Pairs well with dal or vegetable sides

This rich curry is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to create a memorable meal. The long, slow cooking ensures tender meat and deep, developed flavors.