## Rogan Josh (North Indian Lamb Curry)
Rogan Josh is a fragrant and deeply flavorful lamb curry hailing from the Kashmir region of North India. The name itself means “red meat” (Rogan) and “heat” or “passion” (Josh), hinting at its vibrant color and warming spices. This recipe aims to capture that authentic North Indian essence.
**Yields:** 4-6 servings
**Prep time:** 25 minutes
**Cook time:** 1.5 – 2 hours
### Ingredients:
**For the Lamb:**
* 750g boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
* 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
* 1 teaspoon ginger paste
* 1 teaspoon garlic paste
* 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
* Salt to taste
**For the Curry Base:**
* 3 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
* 2 large onions, finely chopped
* 2 teaspoons ginger paste
* 2 teaspoons garlic paste
* 3-4 green cardamom pods, bruised
* 2-3 cloves
* 1-inch cinnamon stick
* 2-3 bay leaves
* 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
* 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds (optional, but adds a classic touch)
* 2 teaspoons Kashmiri red chili powder (for color and mild heat, adjust to taste)
* 1 teaspoon coriander powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
* 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
* 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/4 teaspoon ground garlic (optional, for extra depth)
* 2 large tomatoes, pureed (about 1 cup)
* 1 cup water or lamb stock
* 1/4 cup full-fat yogurt, whisked until smooth (for the final tempering)
* 1 teaspoon garam masala
* Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish
### Instructions:
**1. Marinate the Lamb:**
In a bowl, combine the lamb cubes with plain yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure the lamb is evenly coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
**2. Prepare the Curry Base:**
Heat the ghee or oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the whole spices: cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon stick, bay leaves, cumin seeds, and fenugreek seeds (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the finely chopped onions and sauté, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and are softened. This will take about 8-10 minutes.
Add the ginger paste and garlic paste. Sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
**3. Add the Spice Powders:**
Reduce the heat to low. Add the Kashmiri red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, ground turmeric, ground ginger, and ground garlic (if using). Stir well and cook for about 30 seconds, ensuring the spices don’t burn.
**4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Cook:**
Add the tomato puree to the pot. Cook the tomato mixture, stirring constantly, until the oil starts to separate from the masala. This indicates that the tomatoes are well cooked and the flavors have developed. This can take about 5-7 minutes.
**5. Add the Lamb and Braise:**
Add the marinated lamb cubes to the pot. Increase the heat to medium-high and sear the lamb on all sides for a few minutes until it’s lightly browned.
Pour in 1 cup of water or lamb stock. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let the Rogan Josh simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender and falling apart. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
**6. The Final Tempering (Dahi Tadka):**
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup of yogurt and the garam masala. This is a crucial step for adding a creamy texture and a final burst of flavor.
Once the lamb is tender, carefully stir in the whisked yogurt mixture. Cook for another 5-7 minutes on low heat, stirring constantly, until the yogurt is incorporated and the curry thickens slightly. Do not let the curry boil vigorously after adding the yogurt, as it might curdle.
**7. Rest and Serve:**
Turn off the heat and let the Rogan Josh rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Garnish generously with fresh chopped coriander leaves.
**Serving Suggestions:**
Rogan Josh is traditionally served hot with:
* Plain steamed rice
* Naan bread
* Roti or chapati
* Kachumber salad (chopped cucumber, tomato, onion salad)
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## Image of Rogan Josh: