Introduction
Rogan Josh is a classic dish from Kashmiri cuisine, known for its vibrant red color and aromatic flavors. Traditionally made with tender lamb or goat meat, this curry is infused with a blend of spices, including cardamom, cloves, and Kashmiri red chili, which gives it a distinctive taste and a beautiful hue. Served with rice or naan, Rogan Josh is a comforting and hearty dish that represents the rich culinary heritage of India.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (700g) lamb, cut into cubes (preferably shoulder or leg)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon Kashmiri red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup plain yogurt, whisked
- 2 cups water or lamb stock
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Marinate the Lamb:
- In a bowl, combine the lamb cubes with yogurt, turmeric, and salt. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance tenderness and flavor.
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Cook the Onions:
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
- Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
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Add Garlic and Ginger:
- Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
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Spice it Up:
- Add coriander powder, garam masala, turmeric, and Kashmiri red chili powder. Cook the spice mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
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Cook the Lamb:
- Add the marinated lamb to the pot, stirring to coat it with the spice mixture. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the lamb is browned on all sides.
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Simmer:
- Pour in the water or lamb stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the lamb is tender. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
Health Tips
- Rogan Josh can be a high-calorie dish due to its oil content. To make it healthier, consider using lean cuts of meat and reducing the amount of oil. You can also increase the amount of vegetables served alongside it, like spinach or peas.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Rogan Josh hot with steamed basmati rice, naan, or paratha. It pairs well with a side of yogurt or raita to balance the spices.
Tips
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Kashmiri red chili powder is mild and gives color without too much heat. If you prefer a spicier curry, you can mix in other chili powders or fresh chilies.
- Slow Cooking: For the best flavor, consider cooking the curry low and slow, allowing the spices to fully develop. A pressure cooker can also be used for a quicker preparation.
- Resting Time: Allowing the curry to rest for a while before serving helps the flavors meld together, making it even tastier.
