Mutton Rogan Josh: A Fiery and Flavorful Kashmiri Delicacy

Introduction: Mutton Rogan Josh is a signature dish from the beautiful Kashmir region of India. It is a rich and aromatic curry made with succulent mutton (goat meat) cooked in a fragrant blend of spices, yogurt, and Kashmiri red chili powder. This iconic dish has gained popularity worldwide for its distinct flavors and vibrant red color. In this blog post, we will delve into the history, ingredients, and step-by-step process of making Mutton Rogan Josh at home.

The Origins and Significance of Mutton Rogan Josh: 

Rogan Josh is a traditional Kashmiri dish that has its roots in Persian cuisine. The term "Rogan Josh" translates to "red juice" or "red oil," referring to the beautiful red color of the curry. It is believed to have been introduced to Kashmir by Persian chefs during the Mughal era. Mutton Rogan Josh has become a symbol of Kashmiri cuisine, known for its robust flavors and the perfect balance of spices.

Ingredients:

For the Mutton Marinade:

• 500 grams mutton (goat meat), cut into pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt (curd)
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste

For the Rogan Josh Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or oil
• 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
• 2-3 green cardamom pods
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4-6 cloves
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
• 1 tablespoon Kashmiri red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)
• Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1.     Marinating the Mutton:

·         In a bowl, combine the mutton pieces with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, Kashmiri red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt.

·         Mix well to ensure that the mutton pieces are coated with the marinade.

·         Cover the bowl and let the mutton marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This will help tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavors.

2.     Cooking the Rogan Josh Gravy:

·         Heat ghee or oil in a large, deep pan over medium heat.

·         Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

·         Add the whole spices - green cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, cloves, bay leaves, cumin seeds, and fennel seeds.

·         Stir-fry for a minute until the spices release their aroma.

·         Add the Kashmiri red chili powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala powder.

·         Mix well to coat the spices with the onions.

·         Add the tomato puree and cook for a few minutes until the oil starts to separate from the masala.

·         Add water and bring the gravy to a gentle simmer.

3.     Cooking the Mutton:

·         Add the marinated mutton pieces to the simmering gravy.

·         Stir well to coat the meat with the spices and gravy.

·         Cover the pan and let the mutton cook on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and cooked through.

·         Stir occasionally and add more water if needed to maintain a thick, rich consistency.

·         Adjust salt and spices according to taste.

4.     Garnishing and Serving:

·         Once the mutton is cooked and tender, remove the pan from heat.

·         Garnish the Mutton Rogan Josh with freshly chopped cilantro leaves.

·         Serve the dish hot with steamed rice, naan bread, or roti.

Conclusion: Mutton Rogan Josh is a delightful and aromatic dish that brings the flavors of Kashmiri cuisine to your plate. The tender mutton pieces cooked in a rich and flavorful gravy make it a perfect choice for special occasions and gatherings. By following the step-by-step instructions in this blog post, you can recreate the authentic taste of Mutton Rogan Josh in your own kitchen. So, gather the ingredients, embrace the culinary adventure, and savor the delectable flavors of this iconic Kashmiri delicacy.

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