Lamb Rogan Josh – A Flavorful Journey into Kashmiri Cuisine

Lamb Rogan Josh is a dish that instantly evokes warmth, richness, and exotic spice. Originating from the picturesque Kashmir Valley in India, this curry has traveled far beyond its roots to become a globally loved delicacy. With its tender lamb pieces soaked in a deeply flavorful sauce, Lamb Rogan Josh is a must-try for anyone who appreciates Indian cuisine.

What is Lamb Rogan Josh?

Lamb Rogan Josh is a slow-cooked curry made with succulent pieces of lamb, aromatic spices, yogurt, and a rich tomato-based sauce. The name “Rogan Josh” comes from two Persian words: Rogan (meaning oil or clarified butter) and Josh (meaning heat or passion). True to its name, the dish is a celebration of robust flavors and slow-cooked excellence.

History and Origin

Rogan Josh was introduced to Indian cuisine by the Mughals, who brought with them Persian cooking techniques. Over time, the dish was adapted by the Kashmiris to suit local tastes, incorporating native spices like fennel, dry ginger, and Kashmiri chili, which gives the dish its signature red color without excessive heat.

Key Ingredients

The beauty of Lamb Rogan Josh lies in its simple yet aromatic ingredient list:

• Lamb (preferably shoulder or leg, cut into chunks)

• Yogurt (to tenderize the meat and add creaminess)

• Kashmiri red chilies (for vibrant color and mild heat)

• Garlic and ginger paste

• Onions, finely sliced

• Tomatoes or tomato puree

• Spices: cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, bay leaf, fennel, and dry ginger

• Ghee or oil for cooking

• Fresh coriander for garnish

How to Make Lamb Rogan Josh

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Serves: 4

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Marinate the Lamb
   Mix lamb pieces with yogurt, garlic-ginger paste, and a pinch of salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to an hour.

2. Sauté the Spices
   Heat ghee or oil in a deep pot. Add whole spices like cinnamon, cloves, bay leaf, and cardamom. Let them crackle for a few seconds.

3. Cook the Onions
   Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown. This forms the base of the curry.

4. Add Tomatoes and Spice Powders
   Stir in tomato puree, Kashmiri chili powder, fennel, and dry ginger. Cook until the oil separates from the masala.

5. Add Marinated Lamb
   Add the lamb pieces and cook on high heat for 10 minutes, allowing the meat to brown slightly.

6. Simmer and Slow Cook
   Lower the heat, cover, and cook for 1 to 1.5 hours until the lamb is tender and the sauce is thick.

7. Garnish and Serve
   Sprinkle fresh coriander on top and serve hot with basmati rice, naan, or roti.

Tips for the Perfect Lamb Rogan Josh

• Use bone-in lamb for more flavor.

• Don’t rush the cooking process—slow cooking is key to tender meat.

• Use Kashmiri chili powder to get a rich red color without overwhelming heat.

• A clay pot or heavy-bottomed pan enhances the slow-cooked flavor.

What to Serve with Lamb Rogan Josh

Lamb Rogan Josh pairs beautifully with:

• Steamed Basmati Rice

• Garlic Naan or Butter Naan

• Jeera Rice (cumin-flavored rice)

• Plain or Garlic Roti

• A side of raita or cucumber salad to cool the palate

Final Thoughts

Lamb Rogan Josh is more than just a curry—it’s a cultural icon that tells a story of Mughal heritage and Kashmiri tradition. Its rich flavor, aromatic spices, and soul-warming character make it a standout dish on any Indian menu.

Try It Today!

Have you tried Lamb Rogan Josh before? Visit Jalsa Indian Bar & Restaurant in North Adelaide and experience Lamb Rogan Josh the way it was meant to be — authentic, indulgent, and unforgettable.

153 Melbourne St, North Adelaide SA 5006
www.thejalsa.com.au
0401 715 757