Lamb curry is a timeless dish, packed with aromatic spices and tender meat, making it a favorite in many households. Originating from South Asia, this recipe has been cherished for generations, evolving with different regional variations.
Despite its rich flavors, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
The key to a flavorful lamb curry lies in the careful balance of spices and the slow cooking process, allowing the meat to tenderize while absorbing the aromatic flavors. While it may seem daunting at first, fear not, as I’ll guide you through each step with clear instructions.
Expert Tip: For even more flavor, consider marinating the lamb in a mixture of yogurt and spices for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
Lamb: Lamb provides a rich and savory flavor to the curry. Its tender texture makes it perfect for slow cooking, allowing the meat to absorb the spices and develop a depth of flavor.
Olive Oil: Used for cooking the onions and spices, olive oil adds a subtle fruity note to the curry while helping to create a flavorful base.
Onions: Onions form the foundation of the curry, lending a sweet and savory taste to the dish. They also help create a thick and aromatic gravy.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add a tangy sweetness to the curry, balancing out the richness of the lamb and spices. They also contribute to the smooth texture of the gravy.
Salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients, salt helps to balance the overall taste of the curry.
Ginger Paste: Ginger adds a warm and spicy kick to the curry, complementing the other spices and enhancing the overall aroma.
Garlic Paste: Garlic provides a pungent and slightly sweet flavor to the curry, adding depth to the dish.
Chilli Powder: For those who like a bit of heat, chilli powder adds a fiery kick to the curry, elevating its flavor profile.
Coriander Powder: Ground coriander seeds impart a citrusy and earthy flavor to the curry, enhancing its aromatic qualities.
Turmeric Powder (Haldi): Known for its vibrant yellow color, turmeric powder adds a warm and earthy flavor to the curry, as well as providing numerous health benefits.
Garam Masala: A blend of aromatic spices, garam masala adds warmth and depth to the curry, tying all the flavors together.
Dried Fenugreek Leaves (Methi): Fenugreek leaves contribute a slightly bitter and nutty flavor to the curry, enhancing its complexity.
Coriander: Fresh coriander leaves, also known as cilantro, add a bright and refreshing touch to the finished dish, enhancing its visual appeal and flavor.
Expert Tip: Toasting the whole spices such as cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and cardamom pods before grinding them can enhance their aroma and flavor.
Expert Tip: Whenever possible, use fresh ingredients such as ginger, garlic, and tomatoes for the best flavor in your lamb curry.
The cooking time for lamb curry can vary depending on factors such as the cut of meat and the desired level of tenderness. Generally, it takes around 45-60 minutes for the lamb to cook until tender. However, it’s essential to check the meat periodically and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure it reaches the desired consistency.
Yes, you can adapt the recipe to use other meats such as beef, chicken, or even goat. Keep in mind that different meats may require adjustments in cooking time and seasoning to achieve the best results.
Yes, lamb curry is an excellent dish for making in advance as the flavors tend to deepen and develop over time. You can prepare the curry a day or two ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the gravy.
The level of spiciness in lamb curry can be adjusted according to your preference by varying the amount of chilli powder used. If you prefer a milder curry, you can reduce the amount of chilli powder or omit it altogether. Conversely, if you like it spicier, you can increase the amount of chilli powder or add fresh green chillies to the curry.
Yes, you can freeze leftover lamb curry for future meals. Allow the curry to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Label the containers with the date and contents, then store them in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw the curry overnight in the refrigerator and heat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.
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Latest comments (22)
Can this be cooked in the slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cooking this recipe in a slow cooker should work well. It will take longer, but the flavors will develop beautifully.
Could I add chopped potatoes when cooking
Absolutely! Adding chopped potatoes sounds like a great idea. Just make sure to add them when the lamb is almost cooked to ensure they cook evenly. Enjoy your meal!
I just saw this recipe and put it on my list for curry soon. One question, though …. Can I use minced garlic and ginger rather than paste?
Yes, you can. I try to use fresh most of the times but use readymade when i feel lazy 🙂
So glad I came across this recipe! Have been missing the taste of my family’s cooking and this brought it all back – very authentic to what I grew up with. Super delicious, can’t wait to make it again and to try your other recipes Nabeela!
Thank you so much for trying out my recipe. I’m glad you liked it 🙂
Hi what cut of lamb is best to use?
Hi, i mostly tend to use neck but you can also use lamb or shoulder. 🙂
I’ve been cooking curries for over 60 years. this one looks very appealing and I must try it. Thanks for the recipe.
You will definitely enjoy this! Let me know how it turns out for you 🙂
My husband thinks this is the best meal I’ve ever made. Loved it. Thank you. Added a bit more salt, coriander and garam masala.
Hi Amanda,
I’m really glad your husband enjoyed my recipe. If you have any questions about any other recipes, don’t hesitate to drop me a message 🙂
This was absolutely delicious! First curry I have ever made from scratch and it was surprisingly easy to make
Thanks Sonia, I’m glad you enjoyed my recipe 🙂
Cant wait to try this one, I have been working my way through your recipes. Thank you xx
Thank you so much! That means a lot to me. I would love your feedback on my recipes. What would you say is your best recipe so far? 🙂
This curry is amazing.. it’s better than restaurant quality… When I cook this for my friends they can’t believe it’s not from a restaurant! I cook this dish at least once a month for them now.. thanks Nabeela for sharing this delicious recipe!
Thank you so much! I appreciate your kind words. Don’t forget to check out my other curry recipes. I am sure you will love them too!