Mutton curry is a popular and flavorful dish that is widely enjoyed in many parts of the world, particularly in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine. This rich and aromatic curry is made with tender mutton pieces cooked in a blend of spices, herbs, and sometimes yogurt or coconut milk. In this article, we will take you through a step-by-step guide on how to make a delicious mutton curry recipe that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless mutton pieces (you can use shoulder or leg cuts)
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato puree
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup coconut milk (optional)
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1: Marinate the Mutton
Begin by marinating the mutton pieces in a mixture of yogurt, ginger, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, ginger, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Add the mutton pieces to the marinade and mix well to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
2: Sear the Mutton
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Remove the mutton pieces from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Add the mutton pieces to the pan and sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the browned mutton from the pan and set aside.
3: Soften the Onions
In the same pan, heat another tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4: Add the Spices and Tomato Puree
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spices are fragrant. Add the tomato puree and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
5: Add the Mutton and Water
Add the browned mutton pieces to the pan, along with the water and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the mutton is tender.
6: Add Coconut Milk (Optional)
If using coconut milk, stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will add a rich and creamy texture to the curry.
7: Serve
Once the mutton is tender, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice, with naan or roti, or with some crusty bread.
Tips and Variations:
- Use bone-in mutton pieces for added flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your desired level of spiciness.
- Add potatoes, carrots, or other vegetables to the curry for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use beef or lamb instead of mutton for a different flavor profile.
- Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance the richness of the curry.