Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt is a delightful dish that brings rich flavors to your table. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, dinner parties, or cozy nights at home. With its tender lamb and aromatic spices, it creates a memorable experience for anyone who enjoys flavorful cuisine. The use of Kashmiri chili adds a unique warmth and vibrant color, while the yogurt provides a creamy balance to the dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and slow cooking results in a deeply flavorful dish that warms the soul.
- Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe allows you to enjoy cooking without stress.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, naan, or even a salad for a complete meal.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors make this dish visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests.
- Comfort Food: Ideal for cooler evenings or special occasions when you want something hearty and satisfying.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools on hand. These will help streamline your efforts and enhance your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for even cooking and maintaining heat during the slow-cooking process.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Knife and cutting board: Crucial for efficiently chopping vegetables and meat with precision.

Ingredients
Meat
- 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
Cooking Base
- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
- 1 large onion, finely sliced
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Spices
- 2 teaspoons Kashmiri chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 green cardamom pods
Dairy
- 1 cup plain yogurt, whisked
How to Make Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Cut the lamb shoulder into bite-sized chunks. Finely slice the onion, mince the garlic cloves, and grate the fresh ginger.
Step 2: Brown the Lamb
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the ghee or oil over medium-high heat. Add the lamb chunks in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes until they develop a rich color. Remove the lamb from the pot and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add the sliced onion. Cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté until fragrant—about 2 minutes.
Step 4: Add Spices
Stir in Kashmiri chili powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and cardamom pods. Cook for another minute to toast the spices lightly.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned lamb to the pot. Pour in whisked yogurt while stirring continuously to prevent curdling. Mix well until everything is combined.
Step 6: Simmer
Cover the pot with a lid and reduce heat to low. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 hours until the lamb is tender. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
Step 7: Serve
Once cooked through, check seasoning before serving. Enjoy your Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt alongside rice or naan!
How to Serve Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt
Serving Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt can enhance the overall experience of this flavorful dish. Here are some delightful ways to present it:
Pair with Steamed Rice
- Steamed basmati rice serves as a perfect base to soak up the rich flavors of the Rogan Josh.
Accompany with Naan Bread
- Soft naan bread is great for scooping up the lamb and sauce, adding a comforting texture.
Add a Fresh Salad
- A light cucumber and tomato salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
Include Pickles or Chutneys
- Spicy pickles or sweet mango chutney can add an extra layer of flavor, balancing the spices beautifully.
Serve with Raita
- Cool and creamy yogurt raita helps to mellow out the heat from the Kashmiri chili, making each bite delicious.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped cilantro or mint on top not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s aroma and taste.
How to Perfect Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt
Perfecting your Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh takes attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time:
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Choose Quality Lamb: Select fresh lamb shoulder for tender meat that falls apart easily after cooking.
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Sear for Flavor: Brown the lamb in ghee or oil before slow cooking; this step builds depth in flavor.
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Use Fresh Spices: Always opt for fresh spices when possible; their potency significantly enhances the dish’s taste.
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Control Cooking Time: Allow ample time for slow cooking; this allows flavors to meld beautifully and makes the meat tender.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of Kashmiri chili according to your spice preference for a customized heat level.
Best Side Dishes for Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt
Choosing complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:
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Basmati Rice
Lightly seasoned basmati rice is fluffy and perfect for soaking up all those rich flavors. -
Garlic Naan
This soft, buttery flatbread pairs perfectly with lamb, allowing you to savor every bite. -
Cucumber Raita
A refreshing yogurt-based side that cools down spicy dishes, providing balance to your meal. -
Roasted Vegetables
A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds both color and nutrition to your plate. -
Chickpea Salad
This protein-packed salad has fresh herbs and lemon juice, giving a zesty complement to the rich lamb curry. -
Spicy Mango Chutney
The sweetness of mango chutney contrasts wonderfully with savory lamb, enhancing each forkful. -
Lentil Dal
A comforting lentil dal can be an excellent source of protein while offering another layer of flavor. -
Pickled Onions
Tangy pickled onions add crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the Rogan Josh beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overcooking the lamb. Ensure you monitor the cooking time closely to keep the lamb tender without drying it out.
- Don’t skip marinating. Marinating the lamb with yogurt and spices enhances flavor and tenderness, so don’t rush this step.
- Be careful not to use too much chili. Adjust the Kashmiri chili powder according to your heat preference to ensure a balanced dish.
- Forgetting to taste as you go can lead to imbalanced flavors. Regularly taste your dish during cooking to adjust seasonings as needed.
- Avoid using low-quality ingredients. Fresh spices and good-quality lamb make a significant difference in flavor, so choose wisely.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Let the dish cool before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- It’s best to portion the dish into smaller containers for easy reheating.
Reheating Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warm throughout.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about preparing Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt.
Can I use other meats instead of lamb?
Absolutely! You can substitute beef or chicken if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What is Kashmiri chili?
Kashmiri chili is known for its vibrant color and mild heat. It adds depth of flavor without overwhelming spiciness.
How spicy is Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt?
This dish is typically mild due to the use of Kashmiri chili. However, you can adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together during storage.
Final Thoughts
Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt is a delightful dish that balances rich flavors with comforting warmth. Its versatility allows for customization based on your preferences—feel free to add vegetables or adjust spices. Give this recipe a try for an unforgettable meal!
Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt
Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt is a hearty and flavorful dish that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant kitchens of India. This rich curry features tender lamb, marinated in yogurt and aromatic spices, creating a comforting meal perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. The Kashmiri chili adds warmth and beautiful color, while the creamy yogurt balances the robust flavors. Whether served with rice, naan, or a refreshing salad, this dish promises to impress and satisfy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow-Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
- 1 large onion, finely sliced
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 teaspoons Kashmiri chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 green cardamom pods
- 1 cup plain yogurt, whisked
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients: Cut the lamb into bite-sized pieces, slice the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger.
- Brown the lamb: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat ghee or oil over medium-high heat. Add lamb in batches and brown on all sides (5-7 minutes). Remove from pot.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, cook sliced onion until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
- Add spices: Stir in Kashmiri chili powder and other spices; cook for an additional minute.
- Combine ingredients: Return lamb to the pot; mix in whisked yogurt to combine well.
- Simmer: Cover and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for 2-3 hours until lamb is tender.
- Serve: Check seasoning before serving alongside rice or naan.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg



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