Rogan Josh Lamb Curry Recipe – Rich, Aromatic, and Full of Flavor
The region of Kashmir in India has a signature dish called Rogan Josh that is particularly famous due to its consistent base and exotic flavors. Fragrant spices and yogurt tenderize slow-cooked lamb in this delicious, melt-in-your-mouth recipe for a curry you can serve at your upcoming family feast. Rogan is the oil or fat that rises to the top while this dish cooks and Josh refers to heat (passion as well), which can be felt in a hot rich-tasting gravy.
The Origins and Heritage of Rogan Josh
Rogan Josh has a rich history to its name, hailing from the Persian and Mughal eras where it fused with Kashmiri cooking legacy. It is a key constituent of the Wazwan, a multi-course feast in Kashmir. The signature red hue is derived from Kashmiri Red Chilies used to tint the dish without making it too hot for consumption. The curry is flavor-filled but does not blow ya your mind hot for a palate-pleasing dish.
The Perfect Ingredients for Rogan Josh
Your Rogan Josh recipe is only one component made up of several parts that are all good quality ingredients. Though lamb is the classic salad meat, goat or beef may be used if preferred and available. Spices used in Rogan Josh are necessary for it to taste the way you know and love—also, the cardamom, cinnamon, cloves cumin, and Kashmiri red chili powder. The combination of fresh garlic and ginger deepens the taste, while yogurt creates a slice of juicy meat that is tender with each bite.
Saffron: You can always enhance this recipe to make an ultimate pleasure meal with saffron, it is a bit exotic and has optional ingredients. The sweetish, soft, and mushy zarda is garnished with caramelized sugar crispy silver squares while a pinch of saffron soaked in milk imparts tenderness to the kofta by also helping color it golden. You can add fennel powder like you will find in true Kashmiri dishes for extra complexity and a good dose of sweetness to offset savory.
Step-by-Step Process of Making Rogan Josh
It looks like a lot of ingredients, but I promise you this recipe is simple to make — even the Rogan Josh! The meat is marinated with curd, haldi, and ginger garlic paste before being seared over onions along with whole spices making up the base flavors. The slow cooking of the meat makes it absorb all flavors, and that's why its taste is enjoyable and juicy. The curry usually simmers for about 1'5 hours to 2 hrs. By this time the oil or Rogan will float at the top and indicate that your Dish is ready.
A Versatile Dish for All Occasions
This versatile dish allows for serving with a wide array of sides, appropriate for both casual family dinners or festive occasions. Ps: This goes well with steamed Basmati rice, naan, or even chapati balancing the strong flavors of curry. Sprinkle over some fresh coriander to finish everything off with an extra flash of flavor.
Health Benefits of Rogan Josh
Not only is Rogan Josh a tasty dish but it also has health benefits. Lamb is rich in protein, iron, and essential vitamins the spices used such as turmeric & cumin are high in flavonoid antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties. Rogan Josh is most certainly indulgent but can be part of a healthy and balanced diet in moderation.
Try More Recipe:- Simple and Tasty Aloo Matar Recipe: Indian Cooking Made Easy
Rogan Josh is a highly aromatic and the most flavorful lamb curry from the beautiful valley of Kashmir India. Kuvalgudi — Luki(tur dal ki) Tarkari LPARAM This is a slice of rich red meat with all masala (spices). This quick and easy Rogan Josh recipe allows you to make this delicious classic right at home, serving up those real Indian flavors straight into your taste buds.
- 1 kg lamb , cut into cubes (shoulder or leg)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 teaspoons Kashmiri red chili powder (or paprika for milder heat)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 4 green cardamom pods
- 4 cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
- 2 pinch A of saffron strands, soaked in tablespoons of warm milk (for enhanced flavor and color)
- 1 teaspoon fennel powder (for a more authentic Kashmiri taste)
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- Marinate the Lamb:
In a large bowl, combine the lamb pieces with plain yogurt, turmeric powder, half of the ginger, and half of the garlic.
Mix well to ensure all pieces are coated.
Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator (overnight marination yields better flavor).
- Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix Kashmiri red chili powder, ground coriander, and ground cumin.
Add a few tablespoons of water to make a smooth paste. This prevents the spices from burning during cooking.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat vegetable oil or ghee in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
Add green cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown (about 7-10 minutes).
Stir in the remaining ginger and garlic. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the Spice Paste:
Add the prepared spice paste to the pot.
Cook while stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes until the oil separates from the spices.
- Cook the Lamb:
Add the marinated lamb pieces to the pot.
Increase the heat to medium-high and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the lamb is browned on all sides.
- Simmer the Curry:
If using saffron milk and fennel powder, add them now.
Pour in enough water to cover the lamb (approximately 2 cups).
Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add water if necessary to maintain a thick gravy.
The lamb is done when it is tender and the oil floats to the top.
- Final Seasoning and Garnish:
Taste the curry and adjust salt as needed.
If desired, add a pinch of asafoetida for added aroma.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve:
Serve your delicious Rogan Josh hot with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti.
Enjoy the rich flavors of this classic Rogan Josh recipe with family and friends.
Servings 5
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 360kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22g34%
- Saturated Fat 10g50%
- Cholesterol 110mg37%
- Sodium 820mg35%
- Potassium 730mg21%
- Total Carbohydrate 15g5%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 5g
- Protein 26g52%
- Vitamin A 1885 IU
- Vitamin C 4 mg
- Calcium 120 mg
- Iron 6 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- Traditionally, Rogan Josh uses Kashmiri red chilies for their vibrant color and mild heat.
- You can substitute lamb with goat meat or beef if preferred.