Craving a comforting and flavorful curry but intimidated by complex recipes? This Easy Lamb Curry recipe is your answer! Forget complicated techniques and lengthy ingredient lists; this dish delivers rich, aromatic flavors with minimal fuss. Tender lamb, infused with warming spices like ginger, garlic, and turmeric, simmers in a luscious tomato-based sauce, creating a culinary experience that’s both satisfying and surprisingly simple to achieve. It's perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, equally delicious served with fluffy rice or naan bread.
This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible to even novice cooks. Ready to experience the deliciousness? Let's dive into the easy step-by-step process to create your own unforgettable Easy Lamb Curry.
Tools Needed
- Large bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Large pot or pan
- Mortar and pestle (optional)
Ingredients
- Lamb (leg, cut into curry pieces): 1 kg
- White Onion: 2 large (or 3 medium)
- Garlic: 6-8 cloves
- Ginger: 1.5 inches
- Coriander Powder: 2 tbsp
- Cumin Powder: 1 tsp
- Turmeric Powder: 2 tsp
- Kashmiri Red Chili Powder: 2 tsp
- Garam Masala: 1 tsp + 0.5 tsp (if not using whole spices)
- Green Cardamom Pods: 4
- Cinnamon Stick: 1
- Cloves: 5-6
- Yogurt: 0.5 cup
- Bay Leaves: 2
- Green Chilies: 2
- Coriander (for garnish)
- Salt
- Oil (neutral): 3-4 tbsp
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate and Prepare Aromatics
- Marinate the lamb with ginger-garlic-chili paste, yogurt, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric, chili powder, half of the garam masala, and salt. (Ensure lamb is coated well).
- Remove the hard core and slice thinly and evenly.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Brown the Lamb
- Heat oil in a pot or pan over medium heat. Add bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves. Let the spices release their aroma.
- Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Fry slowly until golden brown (approx. 10 minutes), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add the marinated lamb to the onions. Stir constantly and fry until the oil separates (approx. 5 minutes covered).
- Increase heat and let the liquid evaporate, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3. Simmer and Season
- Add 1 cup of hot water (adjust for desired gravy consistency). Reduce heat and simmer until the lamb is tender (approx. 10-15 minutes).
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors. Remove whole spices (optional). Stir in the remaining garam masala.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with coriander and serve.
Read more: Easy Beef Stew Recipe: Delicious & Simple Indian-Spiced Stew
Tips
- Using fresh ginger and garlic is preferred, but store-bought paste can be substituted.
- If onions stick to the bottom of the pan, add a splash of water.
- Don't overcook the onions; golden brown is ideal to avoid bitterness.
- Adjust the amount of water to control the gravy's thickness.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Chicken, beef, or even chickpeas can be substituted for the lamb. Adjust cooking time accordingly; chicken will cook faster, while chickpeas will cook slower.
2. What if I don't have all the spices listed?
Don't worry! You can omit spices you don't have, or substitute with similar ones. The core flavors come from the ginger, garlic, and turmeric, so those are essential. A curry powder blend can also be a good substitute.
3. How can I make this curry spicier?
Add more chili powder or a chopped chili pepper (like a serrano or jalapeño) to increase the heat. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra zing.
This Easy Lamb Curry recipe proves that delicious, authentic-tasting Indian food doesn't have to be complicated. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting warmth of this simple yet satisfying dish. Now go forth and impress your family and friends with your newfound culinary skills!