Lamb Rogan Josh: A Spicy and Flavorful Indian Classic

Introduction

Lamb Rogan Josh is a classic Indian dish that is known for its spicy and aromatic flavors. This hearty curry is made with tender chunks of lamb that are cooked with a blend of fragrant spices, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. In this recipe, we will show you how to make Lamb Rogan Josh at home, so that you can enjoy this flavorful dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need:

• 1 kg lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp grated ginger
• 2 tbsp tomato puree
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 cardamom pods, crushed
• 2 bay leaves
• 500ml lamb stock
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh coriander, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook until softened and lightly browned, about 8-10 minutes.

2. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.

3. Add the tomato puree, ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, cinnamon stick, crushed cardamom pods, and bay leaves. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

4. Add the lamb and stir until coated in the spice mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the lamb is browned on all sides.

5. Pour in the lamb stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, until the lamb is tender and the sauce has thickened.

6. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Serve hot with rice and naan bread. Garnish with fresh coriander, if desired.

Variations

• Vegetarian/Vegan: You can make a vegetarian or vegan version of this dish by substituting the lamb with vegetables such as cauliflower, potato, or chickpeas. Use vegetable stock instead of lamb stock and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Chicken Rogan Josh: If you prefer chicken over lamb, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts instead. Adjust the cooking time to about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through.
• Instant Pot: To make this recipe in an Instant Pot, follow steps 1-3 using the sauté function. Then, add the lamb and stock and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. Use the quick release function to release the pressure and season with salt and pepper, to taste.
• Slow Cooker: To make this recipe in a slow cooker, follow steps 1-3 using a separate pan. Then, add the lamb and spice mixture to the slow cooker along with the lamb stock. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the lamb is tender. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Conclusion

Lamb Rogan Josh is a classic Indian dish that is perfect for those who love spicy and flavorful meals. This recipe is easy to follow and can be made in your own kitchen using a few simple ingredients. Whether you are cooking for yourself, your family, or for a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and discover the delicious flavors and aromas of Lamb Rogan Josh for yourself?

FAQ

What is Lamb Rogan Josh?

Lamb Rogan Josh is a traditional Indian dish made with lamb, yogurt, and a variety of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and cumin. It is a rich and flavorful dish that is typically served with rice or naan.

What cut of lamb should I use for Lamb Rogan Josh?

You can use any cut of lamb for this dish, but we recommend using boneless lamb shoulder or leg for the best flavor and texture.

Can I make Lamb Rogan Josh ahead of time?

Yes, Lamb Rogan Josh can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for regular yogurt?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt in this recipe. However, Greek yogurt is thicker and has a higher fat content, so you may need to adjust the amount of yogurt used to achieve the desired consistency.

What can I serve with Lamb Rogan Josh?

Lamb Rogan Josh is traditionally served with rice or naan bread. You can also serve it with other Indian side dishes such as raita, chutney, or samosas.

Can I make Lamb Rogan Josh in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make Lamb Rogan Josh in a slow cooker. Just brown the lamb and onions in a pan first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the spices, yogurt, and tomatoes. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Is Lamb Rogan Josh spicy?

Lamb Rogan Josh can be spicy, depending on the amount and type of chili pepper used in the recipe. You can adjust the heat level to your liking by adding more or less chili pepper or using a milder variety.

Can I make Lamb Rogan Josh with other meats?

Yes, you can make Rogan Josh with other meats such as beef or chicken. However, the cooking time and method may need to be adjusted depending on the type of meat used.

How do I store leftover Lamb Rogan Josh?

Leftover Lamb Rogan Josh can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen Rogan Josh in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I add vegetables to Lamb Rogan Josh?

Yes, you can add vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers to Lamb Rogan Josh. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly and add the vegetables during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft.