Kashmiri Rogan Josh

Kashmiri Rogan Josh Recipe - Traditional Indian Lamb Dish

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 4

Introduction

Kashmiri Rogan Josh is a traditional dish from the Kashmir region of India, known for its rich and aromatic flavors. This dish is made with tender pieces of lamb cooked in a flavorful blend of spices and yogurt, resulting in a delicious and hearty meal.

History

Rogan Josh has its origins in Persian cuisine and was brought to India by the Mughals. Over time, the dish evolved in the Kashmir region, where it became a staple in Kashmiri cuisine. The name "Rogan Josh" translates to "red lamb" in Persian, referring to the vibrant red color of the dish.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) lamb, cut into 2-inch cubes
6 oz (170 g) ghee (clarified butter)
1 tsp sonth (ginger powder)
1 tbsp saunf (fennel seeds)
2 cinnamon sticks
6 garlic cloves, minced finely
1 tbsp Kashmiri mirch (Kashmiri red pepper powder or cayenne)
1 tsp shahi zeera (black cumin seeds)
6 cardamoms
6 cloves
1 tej patta (bay leaf)
1 tsp zaafraan (saffron), gently toasted and ground
1 cup dahee (yogurt)
1 tsp heeng (asafoetida)
salt to taste

How to prepare

Clean, wash, and remove all fat from the lamb. Set it aside.
Grind all the spices together using a mortar and pestle or a coffee grinder.
Soak saffron in yogurt and set it aside.
Heat ghee in a pan and add heeng. Cook for a few seconds.
Add the lamb to the pan and sear it on all sides, frying until well browned.
Pour the saffron yogurt mixture into the pan and fry until all the liquid is absorbed.
Add one and a half cups of water and the ground spices to the pan.
Bring the contents of the pan to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, until the lamb is tender.
Uncover the pan and continue cooking until excess liquid is evaporated.

Variations

Substitute lamb with chicken or beef for a different variation.
Add vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers for a vegetarian version of the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to sear the lamb pieces before adding the yogurt mixture to enhance the flavor.

- Toasting and grinding the saffron before adding it to the dish will bring out its aroma and flavor.

- Slow cooking the lamb on low heat will ensure that it becomes tender and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Kashmiri Rogan Josh with steamed rice or naan bread for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with a side of raita or salad.

Cooking Techniques

Searing the lamb before cooking helps to lock in the juices and enhance the flavor.

- Slow cooking the dish on low heat allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute clarified butter with vegetable oil for a lighter version of the dish.

- Use Greek yogurt as a substitute for regular yogurt for a creamier texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Kashmiri Rogan Josh can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of toasted almonds or pistachios for added texture and flavor. Serve in a decorative serving dish for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Kashmiri Rogan Josh with a side of fragrant basmati rice, naan bread, and a refreshing cucumber salad. Serve with a glass of lassi or chai tea for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 5g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 20g per serving

Saturated Fat: 10g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 15% of the daily value per serving

Vitamin C: 8% of the daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains dairy (yogurt)

Summary

Rogan Josh is a protein-rich dish that is moderate in carbohydrates and fats. It is a good source of iron and vitamin C.

Summary

Kashmiri Rogan Josh is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is perfect for special occasions or family dinners. With a rich blend of spices and tender lamb, this dish is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was given to me by a dear friend who had traveled to Kashmir and learned the traditional method of making Rogan Josh from a local chef. The rich aroma of spices and tender chunks of meat simmering in a vibrant red sauce captured my imagination, and I knew I had to try my hand at making it.

I gathered all the ingredients - lamb, yogurt, onions, garlic, ginger, and an array of spices including cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and Kashmiri red chili powder. As I began to marinate the meat in a mixture of yogurt and spices, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. The recipe called for the meat to be marinated overnight, allowing the flavors to really penetrate and tenderize the lamb.

The next day, I set to work cooking the Rogan Josh. I started by sautéing the onions, garlic, and ginger in a pan until they were fragrant and golden brown. Then, I added the marinated lamb and let it cook until it was tender and juicy. As the meat simmered, I added more spices - coriander, cumin, and fennel seeds - to create a complex and aromatic flavor profile.

The final step was to add the Kashmiri red chili powder, which gave the dish its signature fiery red color and intense heat. I let the Rogan Josh simmer for a few more minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.

When I finally served the Rogan Josh, I was met with rave reviews from my family. The tender meat, fragrant spices, and rich, velvety sauce were a true delight for the senses. My friend who had shared the recipe with me was thrilled that I had been able to recreate the flavors of Kashmir in my own kitchen.

Since then, I have made Rogan Josh countless times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my own tastes and preferences. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this iconic Kashmiri dish to the next generation.

I often think back to that first time I saw the recipe for Rogan Josh and how it sparked my curiosity and creativity in the kitchen. It is a dish that holds a special place in my heart, not just for its delicious flavors, but for the memories and experiences that it represents.

As I continue to experiment with new recipes and techniques, I am grateful for the wealth of knowledge and inspiration that I have gleaned from my travels, friends, and family. Cooking is not just about following a set of instructions - it is about exploring new flavors, learning from others, and creating something unique and delicious to share with those you love.

And so, as I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Rogan Josh with my family, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to nourish both body and soul. And for that, I am truly grateful.