Main Course · Dinner · Indian

Slow-Roasted Lamb Rogan Josh

Experience the rich, vibrant flavors of Kashmir with this authentic Lamb Rogan Josh, featuring tender meat in a yogurt-based tomato sauce.

4.9(992 reviews)
·By Ethan Brooks·
Slow-Roasted Lamb Rogan Josh — Indian Main Course served and photographed from above
Prep
20 min
Cook
1 h 30 min
Difficulty
Medium
Serves
4

Preparation

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.

Before you start

    How to Make Slow-Roasted Lamb Rogan Josh

    Total time: 1 h 50 min · Yields 4 servings

    1. 1

      Marinate the Lamb

      In a large bowl, combine the lamb chunks with the whisked yogurt, turmeric, and salt. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for better flavor penetration.

    2. 2

      Bloom the Whole Spices

      Heat the ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the black and green cardamom, cinnamon stick, cloves, and bay leaves. Sauté for 1 minute until they become aromatic and slightly swell.

    3. 3

      Brown the Onions and Aromatics

      Add the sliced onions to the pot. Cook over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are deep golden brown. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

    4. 4

      Build the Base

      Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil starts to separate from the sides. In a small bowl, mix the Kashmiri chili powder, coriander, fennel, ginger powder, and asafoetida with 2 tablespoons of water to form a paste. Add this paste to the pot and cook for 3 minutes.

    5. 5

      The Slow Simmer

      Increase heat to medium-high and add the lamb with its marinade. Brown the lamb for 5-7 minutes. Pour in the stock or water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 60-75 minutes, or until the lamb is tender and the sauce has thickened.

    6. 6

      Finishing Touches

      Once the meat is tender, check the seasoning and add salt if needed. Garnish with a generous handful of chopped cilantro and a drizzle of melted ghee before serving.

    Chef's Tips

    • Use Kashmiri chili powder for the bright red color without excessive heat.
    • Browning the onions properly is the key to a deep, dark gravy.
    • If the sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
    • Always whisk the yogurt before adding to prevent curdling in the heat.

    What to Serve with Slow-Roasted Lamb Rogan Josh

    The garlic butter sauce is the star — pick sides that soak it up or balance the richness.

    • Buttery garlic naan
    • Steamed Basmati rice
    • Cucumber and mint raita
    • Pickled red onions

    Frequently asked questions

    Can I use beef instead of lamb?

    Yes, beef chuck or brisket works well, though cooking times may increase by 30-45 minutes.

    Is Rogan Josh very spicy?

    It is rich in flavor but usually mild to medium in heat due to the use of mild Kashmiri chilies.

    Can I make this in a slow cooker?

    Absolutely. Follow the steps up to adding the stock, then transfer everything to a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.

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