Mutton Masala

Mutton Masala Recipe - Authentic Indian Dish

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mutton Masala is a flavorful and aromatic Indian dish made with tender pieces of lamb cooked in a spicy and tangy gravy. This dish is perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to a delicious meal.

History

Mutton Masala has been a popular dish in Indian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the northern regions of India, where lamb meat is a common ingredient in traditional dishes. Over time, different regions have developed their own variations of this dish, adding unique spices and flavors to create a truly diverse and delicious recipe.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) boneless mutton / lamb, cut into 1 inch cubes
1 large onion, sliced
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste (made by combining equal amounts of ginger and garlic)
2 – 3 green chillies, finely chopped
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 cinnamon stick
6 – 7 whole peppercorns
7 – 8 cloves
0.25 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp coriander powder
0.5 tsp red chili powder
salt, to taste
2 tbsp cooking oil
fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped for garnish

How to prepare

Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they start to sizzle, add sliced onions and fry until slightly browned.
Add meat pieces, chopped green chillies, and ginger-garlic paste, and fry for 3 – 4 minutes.
Add salt, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and coriander powder, and let all the spices blend well.
Once the meat starts to brown, add tomato paste, cinnamon stick, peppercorns, and cloves, and sauté for 2 – 3 minutes.
Add water and cover. Cook for 30 – 35 minutes or until the meat tenderizes. You can add more water gradually to prevent it from drying up.
Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot!

Variations

You can add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers to the dish for added flavor and nutrition.
For a spicier version, increase the amount of green chillies and red chili powder.
You can also substitute lamb with chicken or beef for a different twist on this classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the meat well before adding the spices to enhance the flavor of the dish.

- Adjust the amount of green chillies and red chili powder according to your spice preference.

- For a richer gravy, you can add a splash of cream or yogurt towards the end of cooking.

- Let the meat marinate in the spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mutton Masala hot with steamed rice, naan bread, or roti for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Mutton Masala is to cook the meat low and slow to allow the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have lamb, you can use chicken, beef, or even tofu as a substitute.

- You can use ghee or butter instead of cooking oil for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the meat in the spices overnight to save time on the day of cooking.

- Cook the dish a day in advance and let the flavors meld together for an even tastier dish.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Mutton Masala with fresh coriander leaves, sliced almonds, or a dollop of yogurt for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Mutton Masala pairs well with a side of raita, pickles, or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Mutton Masala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300 per serving

Carbohydrates

5g per serving

Fats

15g per serving

Proteins

25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Mutton Masala is rich in iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which are essential for maintaining good health.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream or yogurt) and nuts (if garnished with almonds), so please be cautious if you have allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Mutton Masala is a protein-rich dish that is also high in fats. It provides a good amount of essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Mutton Masala is a delicious and aromatic Indian dish that is perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to a flavorful meal. With the right spices and cooking techniques, you can create a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in India. My grandmother, who was known for her incredible cooking skills, had invited me into the kitchen to teach me how to make one of her signature dishes - Mutton Masala.

I remember the aroma of spices filling the air as she showed me how to marinate the mutton with a special blend of spices and yogurt. She explained to me the importance of letting the meat sit and absorb the flavors before cooking it. As the mutton marinated, she began to prepare the masala - a rich and flavorful sauce made with onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and a variety of spices.

I watched in awe as she expertly chopped the vegetables and sautéed them in a large pot. The smell of cumin, coriander, and turmeric filled the room, making my mouth water in anticipation. My grandmother's hands moved with precision and grace as she added the marinated mutton to the pot, allowing it to simmer and tenderize in the fragrant sauce.

As the dish cooked, she shared stories with me about how she had learned to make Mutton Masala from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. The recipe had been passed down through generations, each adding their own twist to make it uniquely their own.

After hours of simmering, the Mutton Masala was finally ready. My grandmother served it with steamed rice and homemade naan, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon. The first bite was a burst of flavor - spicy, savory, and oh so delicious. I couldn't believe how something so simple could be so incredibly satisfying.

From that day on, I was hooked. I begged my grandmother to teach me more recipes, to share with me the secrets of her culinary prowess. She happily obliged, imparting her wisdom and knowledge to me as we spent countless hours in the kitchen together, cooking and creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, preparing Mutton Masala for my own family, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift my grandmother gave me all those years ago. The recipe for Mutton Masala may have been passed down through generations, but it is the love and passion that goes into making it that truly makes it special.

As I take a taste of the dish simmering on the stove, I am transported back to that small village in India, to the days spent learning from my grandmother and soaking up her wisdom. The flavors dance on my tongue, bringing back memories of laughter, love, and the joy of cooking together.

And as I sit down to enjoy the meal with my family, I know that I am carrying on a tradition that has been cherished for generations. The recipe for Mutton Masala may have started with my grandmother, but it will live on in the hearts and bellies of those who come after me, a reminder of the love and connection that food can bring.

So here's to you, dear grandmother, for teaching me the art of cooking and sharing with me the recipe for Mutton Masala. Your legacy lives on in every bite, and I will forever be grateful for the memories we created together in the kitchen.