Authentic Rogan Josh Recipe: A Spicy Kashmiri Delight
Homemade Lamb Rogan Josh, a beloved Kashmiri dish, with our easy-to-follow recipe. Dive into the rich flavors of aromatic spices & tender meat with us!
Rogan Josh, a beloved gem of Kashmiri cuisine, is more than just a dish; it's a sensory journey through the vibrant flavors of the Kashmir Valley. The name "Rogan Josh" itself is a testament to the rich heritage of this dish. "Rogan" refers to the characteristic red hue derived from the use of Kashmiri dry red chilies, and "Josh" represents the passionate intensity of the flavors.
The history of Rogan Josh can be traced back to Persian origins. It's believed that this dish found its way to Kashmir through the Mughals, who introduced their love for rich, aromatic gravies to the region. Over centuries, Kashmiri chefs perfected the art of blending indigenous spices with Persian techniques, giving birth to the Rogan Josh we know today. It's a symphony of flavors with tender chunks of meat or vegetables bathed in a velvety sauce enriched with yogurt and infused with an array of spices like cardamom, cloves, and saffron.
Today, Rogan Josh is celebrated not only for its tantalizing taste but also for its cultural significance. It's often a centerpiece at feasts and celebrations in Kashmir. Whether you're a connoisseur of Indian cuisine or a newcomer to its delights, Rogan Josh is a dish that promises a flavorful voyage into the heart of Kashmiri gastronomy.
- 500 g Boneless Lamb (Cut into Cubes)
- 1 cup Plain Yoghurt
- 1 tbsp Ginger-Garlic paste
- 1 tsp Ground Turmeric
- Salt (to Taste)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil or Ghee
- 2 Large Onion (Finely Chopped)
- 2 Tomato's (Finely Chopped)
- 2 tsp Ground Coriander
- 1 tsp Ground Cardamom
- 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp Ground Cloves
- 1/2 tsp Ground Fennel seeds
- 1/2 tsp Kashmiri Red Chili Powder (Adjust to Taste)
- 2-3 cup Water
- Safron Strands soaked in 2 Tablespoon(tbsp) of Warm Milks (Optional)
- Chopped Fresh Coriander For garnish
Cutting board and Knife
Measuring cups and spoons
- Step 1: Marinate the Meat (15 minutes + Marinating time)
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed meat, yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, ground turmeric, and salt.
- Mix well, ensuring the meat is evenly coated in the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally, overnight for maximum flavor.
- Step 2: Prepare the Rogan Josh (20 minutes)
- Heat vegetable oil or ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and golden brown.
- Add the finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and the oil begins to separate from the mixture.
- Add all the ground spices - cumin, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, and Kashmiri red chili powder.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices release their aroma.
- Step 3: Cook the Marinated Meat (5 minutes)
Add the marinated meat to the pan and sear it for about 5 minutes until it turns brown on all sides.
- Step 4: Slow Cook the Rogan Josh (1 hour)
- Pour in enough water to cover the meat and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 1 hour or until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.
- Step 5: Finish and Serve (10 minutes)
- If using saffron, add the saffron-soaked milk to the Rogan Josh and stir well. This adds a delightful aroma and color.
- Garnish with chopped fresh coriander.
- Serve your aromatic Rogan Josh hot, traditionally with steamed rice or naan bread.
Pro Tip: Rogan Josh tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Reheat gently before serving.
Enjoy the rich and aromatic flavors of this classic Kashmiri Rogan Josh!