Name: Indian Lamb Curry Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: ¼ cup Vegetable Oil; 2 bay leaves; 4 whole cloves; 10 black peppercorns; 2 yellow onions; 2 lbs lamb; 1 tbsp ginger; 1 tbsp garlic; 1 tsp cardamom; 1 tsp Cinnamon; ½ tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp turmeric; 2 tsp coriander; 2 tsp garam masala; 2 cups water; ½ cup tomato puree; ½ cup Greek yogurt; cilantro

This authentic Indian Lamb Curry is a delightful fusion of tender lamb, aromatic spices, and tangy tomato and yogurt, perfect for those who love a hint of spice and rich flavors.

Photos of Indian Lamb Curry Recipe

While most ingredients are probably already in your pantry, some like cardamom, garam masala, and coriander might not be as common. Cardamom has a sweet, pungent flavor and is popular in Indian cuisine. Garam masala is a spice blend including cumin, coriander, green and black cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, bay leaves, peppercorns, fennel, mace, and dried chilies. Coriander is a fragrant spice with a warm, nutty taste.

Ingredients for the Indian Lamb Curry

Vegetable oil: This will be used to sauté the spices and cook the lamb. Bay leaves: These are used to add a layer of flavor to the curry. Cloves: Cloves are a spice that adds a warm and sweet flavor. Peppercorns: These will give a hint of heat to the curry. Onions: They are the base of the curry, providing sweetness. Lamb: The star of this dish, lamb is rich in flavor and becomes tender when slow-cooked. Ginger: It adds a zesty bite, helping to balance the other flavors. Garlic: Garlic provides a robust, pungent flavor. Cardamom: This spice adds a unique, slightly sweet flavor. Cinnamon: It gives a warm, sweet-spicy flavor. Salt: Enhances the overall flavors of the curry. Turmeric: It provides color and has a light, earthy flavor. Coriander: This spice gives a warm and slightly citrusy flavor. Garam masala: This blend of spices gives the curry its traditional Indian flavor. Water: Used to create the curry sauce. Tomato puree: Adds tanginess to the curry. Greek yogurt: It gives a creamy texture and slight tanginess. Cilantro: Used as a garnish, it adds a fresh, herby flavor.

One reader, Daryle Gunderson says:

This Indian lamb curry recipe is a game-changer! The blend of spices creates an explosion of flavors that will transport you to the streets of India. The tender lamb, combined with the creamy yogurt, is a match made in culinary heaven. It's a must-try for anyone who loves authentic Indian cuisine.

Daryle Gunderson

Key Techniques for Mastering Indian Lamb Curry

How to prepare the spices: Combine the cardamom, cinnamon, salt, turmeric, coriander, and garam masala in a small bowl before adding them to the lamb curry. This will ensure even distribution of the spices throughout the dish.

How to simmer: Allow the curry to simmer on medium-low heat for 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the lamb to become tender.

How to serve: Garnish the lamb curry with fresh cilantro just before serving to add a burst of freshness and color to the dish.

How To Make Indian Lamb Curry

This Indian lamb curry is a simple and easy dish made with seasoned lamb slathered in a tasteful tomato sauce. Serve up a hearty serving for dinner tonight!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

¼cupvegetable oil
2bay leaves
4whole cloves
10black peppercorns
2yellow onions,chopped
2lbslamb,boneless, cut into 1-inch pieces
1tbspginger,minced
1tbspgarlic,minced
1tspcardamom
1tspcinnamon
½tspkosher salt
½tspturmeric
2tspcoriander
2tspgaram masala
2cupswater
½cuptomato puree
½cupgreek yogurt
cilantro,for garnish, optional

Instructions

To a large skillet or Dutch oven, add the oil on medium heat with the bay leaves, cloves, peppercorns, and onions. Cook while stirring for 8 to 10 minutes.
Add in the lamb, ginger, garlic, cardamom, cinnamon, salt, turmeric, coriander, and garam masala, cooking and stirring for an additional 8 to 10 minutes.
Pour in the water and tomato puree, then let it simmer on medium-low heat for 45 minutes, adding in the yogurt just before serving.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1118.43kcal
Fat: 115.11g
Saturated Fat: 54.93g
Trans Fat: 0.07g
Monounsaturated Fat: 49.14g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.97g
Carbohydrates: 8.99g
Fiber: 2.22g
Sugar: 3.53g
Protein: 12.46g
Cholesterol: 119.61mg
Sodium: 263.40mg
Calcium: 87.57mg
Potassium: 350.12mg
Iron: 1.90mg
Vitamin A: 14.38µg
Vitamin C: 6.88mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Indian Lamb Curry

When cooking the lamb, ensure that you brown it well on all sides. This process, known as searing, locks in the juices and enhances the flavor of the meat. It also creates a rich base for the curry. Don't rush this step; allow the meat to form a nice, brown crust before stirring.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Indian Lamb Curry

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use a pressure cooker: Speed up the cooking time by using a pressure cooker to tenderize the lamb more quickly.

Invest in pre-made spice blends: Save time by using pre-made spice blends instead of measuring out individual spices.

Substitute Ingredients For Indian Lamb Curry Recipe

vegetable oil - Substitute with ghee: Ghee is a traditional Indian cooking fat that adds a rich, nutty flavor to the dish.
bay leaves - Substitute with curry leaves: Curry leaves provide a similar aromatic and earthy flavor to the dish.
whole cloves - Substitute with ground cloves: Ground cloves can be used in a smaller quantity to provide the same warm, sweet flavor.
black peppercorns - Substitute with ground black pepper: Ground black pepper can be used as a direct substitute for whole peppercorns.
yellow onions - Substitute with white onions: White onions can be used as a milder alternative to yellow onions.
lamb - Substitute with beef: Beef can be used as a substitute for lamb, providing a similar rich and savory flavor.
ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used in a smaller quantity to provide the same warm, spicy flavor.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a milder flavor.
cardamom - Substitute with cinnamon: Cinnamon can be used to provide a warm and sweet flavor similar to cardamom.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can be used to provide a warm and slightly sweet flavor similar to cinnamon.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt in the same quantity.
turmeric - Substitute with curry powder: Curry powder can be used to provide a similar golden color and earthy flavor to the dish.
coriander - Substitute with cumin: Cumin can be used to provide a warm and earthy flavor similar to coriander.
garam masala - Substitute with curry powder: Curry powder can be used to provide a similar warm and aromatic flavor to the dish.
water - Substitute with chicken or vegetable broth: Broth can add extra flavor to the dish compared to water.
tomato puree - Substitute with diced tomatoes: Diced tomatoes can be blended to achieve a similar consistency to tomato puree.
greek yogurt - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can provide a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness to the dish.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used as a milder alternative to cilantro.

How to Beautifully Present Indian Lamb Curry

Elevate the plating: When presenting the Indian lamb curry, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use clean, white plates to allow the vibrant colors of the curry to stand out. Arrange the dish thoughtfully, ensuring that each element is showcased beautifully.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Add a pop of color and a burst of freshness to the dish by garnishing with vibrant, fresh cilantro leaves. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delightful herbal aroma to the overall presentation.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Use a small spoon or squeeze bottle to delicately drizzle a swirl of yogurt on top of the curry. This not only adds a touch of finesse to the plating but also introduces a creamy element to the visual composition.
Consider side accompaniments: To complement the curry, consider serving it alongside traditional naan bread or fragrant basmati rice. Arrange the accompaniments strategically to create a well-balanced and visually appealing presentation.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate, aiming for symmetry and balance in the presentation. This attention to detail demonstrates precision and care in the plating process.
Highlight the richness of the curry: Showcase the depth of flavors in the curry by ensuring that the sauce is generously spooned over the tender lamb pieces. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also emphasizes the heartiness of the dish.
Use elegant serving utensils: Select refined and polished serving utensils that complement the sophistication of the dish. This attention to detail adds a touch of luxury to the overall presentation.
Create a focal point: Arrange the lamb curry as the focal point of the plate, drawing attention to its rich colors and enticing aroma. Surround it with carefully placed garnishes and accompaniments to enhance its visual impact.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Lamb Curry

Chef's knife: A versatile and essential tool for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients with precision.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients, protecting countertops and ensuring safety.
Skillet: Ideal for sautéing, searing, and simmering ingredients, and can be used for a wide range of cooking techniques.
Dutch oven: Perfect for slow-cooking and braising, and can also be used for soups, stews, and frying.
Spice grinder: Essential for grinding whole spices to enhance the flavor and aroma of the dish.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients to ensure the perfect balance of flavors in the dish.
Tongs: Useful for flipping and turning ingredients while cooking, and for serving the finished dish.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring and mixing ingredients, and is gentle on cookware surfaces.
Immersion blender: Perfect for blending sauces and soups directly in the pot, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
Cooking pot: Essential for boiling, simmering, and cooking a variety of dishes, from pasta to soups and sauces.
Serving platter: Used for presenting and serving the finished dish, adding an elegant touch to the dining experience.

Storing and Freezing Indian Lamb Curry Properly

Allow the lamb curry to cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled curry to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag.
If using a container, make sure to leave some headspace at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Store the curry in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, place the container or bag in the freezer and store for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen curry in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the curry in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.
If the curry appears too thick after reheating, add a little water or broth to adjust the consistency.
Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed before serving the reheated curry.

How To Reheat Leftover Indian Lamb Curry

To reheat leftover indian lamb curry, start by transferring the curry to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the curry from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until the curry is heated through and steaming.
Another option is to reheat the lamb curry on the stovetop. Transfer the curry to a saucepan and add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Heat the curry over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's warmed through and bubbling gently. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more liquid as needed.
For a crispy twist, try reheating the leftover curry in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the curry to an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the curry is heated through and the lamb is tender. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
If you have a lot of leftover curry, consider freezing it for later. Transfer the cooled curry to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label the container with the date and contents, then freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the curry in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat using one of the methods above.
For a quick and easy lunch, try turning your leftover indian lamb curry into a wrap or sandwich. Warm up the curry using one of the methods above, then spoon it onto a soft flatbread or into a pita pocket. Add some fresh cilantro, sliced onions, and a dollop of yogurt for a satisfying and portable meal.

Interesting Fact About Indian Lamb Curry

The Indian lamb curry recipe is a popular dish in Indian cuisine. It is known for its rich and aromatic flavors, which come from a blend of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and garam masala. This dish is often served with rice or naan bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. Lamb is a common meat used in Indian cooking, and it provides a tender and succulent texture to the curry. The combination of yogurt and tomato puree adds a creamy and tangy element to the dish, creating a well-balanced flavor profile. This dish is a favorite among those who enjoy spicy and savory dishes.

Is Making Indian Lamb Curry at Home Cost-Effective?

This Indian lamb curry recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like lamb, onions, and spices makes it a budget-friendly option. The rich flavors and hearty nature of the dish make it a satisfying choice for a family meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25, making it an economical yet delicious option. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is Indian Lamb Curry Healthy or Unhealthy?

This Indian lamb curry recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes:

Lamb, which is a good source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12
Ginger and garlic, known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties
Spices like turmeric and cinnamon, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects
Greek yogurt, a source of probiotics and calcium

However, there are some areas of concern:

The recipe uses a significant amount of oil, which can contribute to high calorie and fat content
The cut of lamb used is not specified, and fattier cuts can increase the overall fat content
The recipe lacks vegetables, which are essential for a balanced and nutritious meal

To make this recipe healthier, I would suggest the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of oil used, or opt for a healthier oil like coconut or avocado oil
Choose a leaner cut of lamb, such as leg or loin, to reduce the fat content
Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as bell peppers, carrots, and spinach, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Use low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt to reduce the calorie and fat content while maintaining the creamy texture and probiotic benefits
Serve the curry with a side of brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and complex carbohydrates

By making these adjustments, you can enhance the nutritional value of the dish without compromising its delicious flavors and textures.

Editor's Opinion on This Indian Lamb Curry Recipe

The Indian lamb curry recipe is a delightful blend of aromatic spices and tender lamb, creating a rich and flavorful dish. The combination of cloves, cardamom, and garam masala infuses the meat with a depth of flavor, while the yogurt adds a creamy texture. The cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a satisfying and comforting meal. The use of traditional Indian spices and cooking techniques truly captures the essence of authentic Indian cuisine. This recipe is a wonderful choice for anyone looking to experience the vibrant and diverse flavors of Indian cooking.

Enhance Your Indian Lamb Curry Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Naan: Create a batch of fluffy, aromatic garlic naan to soak up the flavorful curry sauce.

Mango Chutney: Whip up a tangy and sweet mango chutney to add a burst of fruity flavor to each bite of the rich lamb curry.

Cucumber Raita: Prepare a refreshing cucumber raita to cool down the heat of the spicy lamb curry and add a creamy element to the meal.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Indian Lamb Curry

Spicy Beef Stir Fry: This spicy beef stir fry is a perfect combination of tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. It's a quick and easy dish that's perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

Mango Chicken Salad: This refreshing mango chicken salad is a perfect blend of juicy mango, tender chicken, and crisp vegetables. It's a light and healthy dish that's perfect for a summer lunch or dinner.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: This creamy mushroom risotto is a rich and indulgent dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the creamy risotto rice, creating a dish that's both comforting and satisfying.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Indian Lamb Curry

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are the perfect way to start off any meal. With a delicious blend of cheeses, herbs, and breadcrumbs, they are sure to impress your guests.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Creamy and flavorful, this spinach and artichoke dip is a classic appetizer that never fails to please. Serve it with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this warm, gooey dessert. The contrast between the outer cake and the molten chocolate center is sure to impress your guests.

Tiramisu: Transport yourself to Italy with this classic dessert. Layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone cheese create a luscious and satisfying treat.

Why trust this Indian Lamb Curry Recipe:

This recipe is a testament to the rich and aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine. The blend of spices and the slow simmering process ensures the lamb is tender and infused with the essence of the aromatic spices. The addition of yogurt lends a creamy texture, balancing the bold flavors. With the careful selection of ingredients and precise cooking techniques, this recipe promises an authentic and delightful Indian lamb curry experience.

Share your thoughts on this Indian Lamb Curry Recipe in the World Cuisines forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

What type of lamb should I use for this curry?

You can use boneless lamb shoulder or leg of lamb for this curry. Both cuts are flavorful and tender when cooked properly.

Can I substitute the Greek yogurt with regular yogurt?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with regular yogurt, but the consistency and tanginess may vary slightly.

Is there a substitute for vegetable oil in this recipe?

Yes, you can use other cooking oils like canola oil, sunflower oil, or even ghee as a substitute for vegetable oil.

Can I make this curry in advance and reheat it later?

Yes, this curry actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I add more vegetables to this curry?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, or peas to the curry to make it heartier and more colorful. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.